These machines have solid rubber wheels driven by a friction roller directly from the engine . Their only brake is a bare bicycle brake caliper ( no pads ) squeezing directly on the solid front tire .
The handle-bar is a simple T with no offset head end for stability .
These machines are not capable of regular use ranging from one end of Manhattan to the other , or out to Coney Island & back .

Zap Inc is making an electric version similar to the GoPed . These have the intrisic limitations of all battery vehicles : MUCH greater weight ( and bulk ) to energy ratio limiting performance and range . ZAP is trading on the NASD : Bulletin Board , and you can invest in them if it makes you feel eco-good . But , if you`re interested in investing in a company intent on making MotorBoards practical Personal Urban TranSport , kongo ( great Japanese word : " now on " ) , contact us .