Potential new skateboard wheel 'sharkwheel'

[bowlofsalad]

http://inhabitat.com/the-wheel-of-the-future-is-here-and-its-shaped-like-a-cube/

http://www.kickstarter.com/projects/1537100752/shark-wheel-the-square-skateboarding-wheel-that-sh

These shark wheels are claimed to ride smoothly on surfaces like gravel, that would be pretty intense.
"Shark Wheels are the perfect rain / gravel wheels. The alternating pattern of grooves significantly reduces hydroplaning by channeling liquid, sand or gravel out and away from the surface of the wheel, allowing for a firm contact patch with the ground. Also, the rounded edges allow liquid, sand or gravel to pass around the wheel, providing unparalleled grip over wet and loose traction surfaces."

I am sure some of you will find this idea more than interesting. If I used a skateboard, I'd probably be getting some of these myself, even at 55 dollars+, the claims seem amazing and I am guessing that trying it would be the best way to know.

 

[mlt34]

Yea I saw these on one of the tech blogs and I thought it was pretty awesome. From the videos and diagrams, it looks like it works really well. It's one of those 'I can't believe it hasn't been done' things that could really take off. I wish them luck and hope the product is as good as it appears!

 

[mlt34]

Also now we need someone to make a really wide fork and custom bicycle wheel in that shape to give it try

 

[sk8norcal]

this thing has gimmick written all over it.


update,

lots of BS claims from Sharkwheel,
i expect a backlash when they start delivering their wheels.

here's a good article written by a skater with a physics degree
calling out all the bs claims,

http://physicsbuzz.physicscentral.com/2013/06/reinventing-wheel.html

The skateboarding world is rife with market-minded inventors promoting gimmicky products to children.

 

[mlt34]

Hard to say till someone tries it.