There is a big difference between some device with motors that stands on a desk, and the same device outside, on the street, with a 70-kilos person on it. If the device further has to propel the person forwards, it becomes a complicated endeavor.
But this is what the KoumKoum is!
For several months, we had several working prototypes. Back in March 2025, we received 2 aluminium 3D-printed KoumKoum frames, on which we could stand and ride, but without much power (photo above). In June 2025, we produced a new design that attaches better to the feet, but only 3D-printed it in plastic. We could not stand on it. In August and September 2025, we worked on the electronics, so we had a plastic frame with working electronics and motors.
At the very end of September, we finally finished everything needed for a rideable prototype. The plastic frame has been reinforced with wood (much cheaper than a 3D-printed aluminium frame), we could stand on it, and the motors and sprockets were strong enough to propel someone on uneven ground!
Riding the prototype provides only little technical advancement, but, from a human and user perspective, is extremely important:
- It is easy to ride! This is not just a marketing claim, someone like me, who never uses rollerskates, was able to stand on the KoumKoum and roll without falling, and while enjoying it.
- It is very, very enjoyable! Much more than expected! The KoumKoum has always been designed to be an efficient means of transportation. Its aim was not to be fun. On this website, "fun" almost never appears. But it turns out that riding the KoumKoum is just so refreshing. The video does not show speed very well (I was doing almost 10 km/h, much faster than walking speed), but going that speed, effortlessly, with both my hands free, it really refreshing.
- It was surprisingly comfortable! Even without suspension, the big 72mm wheels absorbed all the irregularities of the ground. And my shoes absorbed everything else. Without handlebars, there was no direct way for ground imperfections to find they way to my arms and neck.
We already knew that the KoumKoum was small. We already knew that it was able to go fast (up to 20 km/h, by law). And now we know that it is easy to ride and fun! What else to ask for!