Segway Inc. of Bedford, New Hampshire, is the manufacturer of the two-wheeled, self-balancing electric vehicle known as the Segway. Powered by a rechargeable battery, the first Segway premiered on December 3, 2001, on Good Morning America in New York City. It wasn't until the following year, however, that the Segway started to be mass produced for the public.
Older Segway Styles
Segway i-Series has a maximum speed of 12.5 mph. These Segways can cover between 15 and 25 miles on one charged lithium-ion battery, depending on terrain, riding style and battery condition.
Segway p-Series have nickel metal hydride batteries that cover six to 10 miles on a full charge.
Segway i167 has a titanium color base and was one of the first two Segway HTs released.
Segway e167 is the same as the i167 with the addition of upper and lower cargo structures, as well as an electronic kickstand that allows the machine to stay balanced without a rider.
Segway p133 has a smaller platform and wheels, plus a less-powerful motor than the i and e series.
Segway i170 has a Midnight Blue color base but is otherwise the same as the i167.
Segway i180 is available with Sport Red, Solar Yellow or Midnight Blue-colored fenders, as well as lithium-ion batteries.
Newer Segway Styles
Segway i2 and x2-Series were released in 2006. The i2 uses LeanSteer and InfoKey technologies, while the x2 (the new XT model) has special software for off-road use.
Segway XT was the first Segway designed for recreation.
Specialized variations of the x2 include the Segway GT (Golf Transporter) and the Segway PT i2 Ferrari Edition.
The Metallic Sage color for the i2 model was introduced in May of 2008, with original white and black colors still available.
Activation
The original Segway styles were activated with a black key (lowest speed—six mph max), yellow key (higher speed—eight mph max) or red key (maximum speed—10 mph on p-Series, 12.5 mph on i-Series), depending on your skill level and driving abilities.
Safety
The Segway PT was recalled in September 2003, since repeated low battery warnings could lead drivers to fall if the warnings were not heeded and the battery was not recharged in time. A software patch to the 12.0 version of the PT automatically slowed the Segway and stopped the machine when low battery power was detected.
Since Segways can reach speeds upwards of 12 mph, the Bicycle Helmet Safety Institute recommends riders to wear helmets at all times when operating a Segway.c
Purchase
Segways can be both purchased and rented through authorized dealers. You may want to test drive a Segway before making the investment. You can easily find a dealer on the main Segway site using their Find a Dealer or Distributor tab.
Additionally, Segway also offers tours around the world for those interested in test driving their product with an authorized instructor who will train you on Segway use. You'll also be able to see scenery of an area of your choice while enjoying your Segway ride.
