Big Wheel

Big Wheel

Almost every man can tell you a story, from their childhood, that involves a Big Wheel. The Big Wheel marked a very important era for most boys. For me, the Big Wheel was the only time in my life where i felt totally out of control, yet subconsciously i knew i would never be more stable. Such an ingenious piece of equipment, when you really think about it. Anchored by the weight of your own body, this tripod with wheels had the most secure foundation that physics offers. The drive wheel, from which it was named, had a gear ratio of 1:1 and an unlimited slip differential to control acceleration. You learned quickly to apply just the right amount of torque. As you knew nothing about horsepower, boy power was the mainstay of your unbridled speed. White knuckles gripped the molded plastic handles, free to ride where you may. And when and if you wanted to stop, the manufacturer stratigically placed single turning brakes on each one of the back wheels. Power slides had never been so inevitably fun. The sound of grinding plastic continuously echoed in your ear. And at the end of the day, when your tank was on E, you slowly yet reluctantly parked your ride. And as you stood up, and began to walk away, you still knew you were totally out of control, yet subconsciously stable.