My Opinion of the Segway...
Once again, may I say how much I enjoy reading everyone’s posts at this wonderful site! My appreciation goes out to all of you, who share your experiences, feelings, and information about Walt Disney World. Lately, I haven’t had much time or what I thought was ample enough input to contribute to a lot of the threads. Until now…
Before I responded to the “Segway thread”, I wanted to do a little research. During my stay in Orlando this summer, I had seen the demonstration at Epcot a total of three times. I have to admit I usually get very excited about seeing potential products of the future.
The first time I saw the presentation:
Our whole apartment had headed over for a day of fun at Epcot. After a few countries and international beverages later we made it over to Innoventions. Immediately through the door, we hit the Segway exhibit. I remember watching the pre-presentation video of the man in the office leaving his desk “Segway-ing” about 8 feet to drop off some papers to his secretary. My first thought was: “gee, pretty practical.” Then my room mate pointed out to us that old people must get really depressed when they walk through Innoventions. That thought distracted me from the rest of the presentation. Finally, at the end the lady opened the floor for all questions. My question was simple thanks to the last margarita: “Is it cheaper then a bicycle?” She laughed and asked if there were any other questions. I was a little upset that she laughed at me and went back to Norway to find comfort.
Since this post is getting a bit long…
Second and Third presentations:
I became pretty passionate that this was the most impractical invention ever. I had the small crowds rocking during questions and answer time. They shortly became believers too. I had the last presenter admit it was cheaper to buy a really nice bike with a basket and a golf cart for considerably less then a Segway ($4950).
I’m sure you have heard lots of comments why people think they are impractical, I just wanted to leave you with the following notes from
www.Segway.com:
1)“The Segway HT has not been designed, tested, or approved as a medical device. Riders must be able to step on and off the Segway HT, requiring physical abilities similar to climbing and descending stairs.” (Gee, So it really isn’t intended to help someone who can’t currently walk reasonable distances, nor will it be able to help you once it causes your new disability.)
2)Keolis Group and Segway LLC have announced an agreement whereby Segway will work exclusively with Keolis to develop public transportation applications utilizing Segway™ Human Transporters (HTs) in FRANCE. (The FRENCH think it is a great idea.-They are on a roll!)
3)January 8, 2003 - Subsequent to Loucks' appointment as CEO, George Muller has chosen to resign his position as President to pursue other interests. (why would the CEO leave after several years, right before this potential Nobel winner of a brilliant device hit the market? – Oh, he wanted to salvage what was left of his respect.) .
Well, that is just some extra points to consider when you think “how brilliant is this $5,000 device?” If they ever make it down to New Orleans, I will run full speed and knock the person off of it before blasts into ( at 3 times the speed of an average walker) a small child or worse someone’s foot. That’s all I have to say about that…
Thanks for reading,
Snoballego
