My current research project in Japan gave me the opportunity to try using a Segway for the first time. So I jumped at the chance for a go under the careful supervision of the instructor.
Firstly, I had alot of fun whizzing around on the thing. It took me about 2-3 minutes to feel comfortable enough to try some more adventurous moves, but the Segway soon feels like an extension to your body. You literally start ‘willing’ the machine in a particular direction and it obediently obeys your thoughts. It’s quite spooky.
The model I was riding had two speeds of operation – a slower mode that is limited to 10kph for the more cautious rider, and a normal mode. Bizarrely, I found it harder to keep balance in the slower mode because the Segway pushes your body upright if you try to push it to move beyond the limited speed.
Segway - source: Wikipedia
Students at the University of Japan are currently conducting studies into the practicalities of using Segways on both pedestrian and vehicle pavements, and I shall be particularly interested to read their conclusions. Like most modes of transport, it has its own pros and cons.
On the positive side, Segways are fairly quick, maneuverable and convenient. As they are electrically powered (with a theoretical range of 50km), there is an argument that Segways are also environmentally friendly, although this depends on the source of electricity from which it is being charged.
Unfortunately, I do have quite a long list of negative aspects. My main problem is that I fail to see how Segways can integrate with existing modes of transport. Different countries perceive the vehicle classification of Segways in different ways; indeed, the UK currently classifies Segways as a powered vehicle subject to Road Traffic laws to which it does not qualify! This means that it is a legal offence to ride a Segway in a public space! Aside from such legal issues, my personal feeling is that they are too quick and dangerous to be used in pedestrian areas, too slow to be used alongside other motorised vehicles and has too wide a footprint to be used in a cycle lane.
I find it hard to envisage people undertaking their daily commute on Segways – not whilst the humble bicycle is much cheaper, quicker and (in my opinion) safer. Although the Segway was alot of fun to ride, I think the appeal may fade quite quickly. The most useful application may be in large industrial areas, campuses or small towns. However, with a large price tag it seems unlikely to take off any quicker than it already has done.
