Segway comes to town

While out and about in the weekend I came across this sign outside Maidstone Park.  Mmmm, that looks interesting, better go and have a look.

Just inside the gate was one these new fangled contraptions on display.  It certainly looked interesting, and there was a family group giving it the once over.  For only $10.00 anyone could have a go.  What about me?  No thanks, I’ll just watch.

There were several young men driving around and around the improvised track having the time of their life.  It certainly looked like fun.  As I watched, one of them fell off.  Looks like it is not as easy to ride as it seems.  And why aren’t they wearing helmets?

Round and round he goes

So what exactly is a Segway?  It is a two wheeled, self balancing vehicle and was invented by Dean Kamen.  Computers and motors in the base keep it upright. Users lean forward to go forward, lean back to go backwards.  They turn by using a “Lean Steer” handlebar, leaning to left or right. (Wonder if I could remember all those instructions?)  They can reach speeds of 20 km per hour.  The Segway has taken off all over the world.  Tourists and locals alike can take part in guided  tours in Paris, Chicago, Washington DC, Atlanta, San Francisco, Budapest, Vienna and Berlin.  While we were travelling overseas we made do with city bus tours.  I’m sure Robin would much rather ride on one of these!

Here in New Zealand we like to keep up with new technology and  Segway tours are now available here too, in Wellington, Christchurch, Auckland and Queenstown.  They are sure to be a hit with tourists.  Perhaps we will have to try them one of these days.