(no subject)

[scottobear]

Even though I don't see myself buying one, there are at least three potential benefits to all, if the Segway takes off and gains full acceptance in this country:

• Whether or not it gets allowed on sidewalks, towns will be pressured to build more bike lanes. Getting more bike lanes isn't easy so if we can gain some lanes due to the Kamen PR machine and funding, at least it will benefit others besides just segway owners.



• If it gets popular, it will reduce the number of cars in downtown areas and the all the associated parking hassles, exhaust, and danger that comes from mixing lots of cars in a small space with lots of people. Downtown areas could be safer to pedestrians and bicyclists.



• I didn't see a demo of it climbing stairs, so if successful, the company behind it might also help and/or pressure urban areas to become friendlier to people with different mobility needs. If you couldn't ride a wheelchair from one end of the city to the other in the year 2000, you might be able to in the year 2005.

So if you walk, ride a bike, or are disabled, you have a lot to gain if this new mode of transportation takes off.

Comments

[cath555.livejournal.com]

the do look really fun! when I first saw it, I thought "I'd love one of those to tear around campus" but then I realised some days the only exercise I get is hauling myself and about 20 lbs of books in a pack on my back across the campus (and walking the dog, of course). they look handy, but I'd rather walk :-)

I do hope that it does have all the benifits they and you point out.

did I mention it just looks fun? ;-)

Re:

[scottobear.livejournal.com]

it does look nifty, just not for me. :)

I'm too dang lazy as it is.

[artemii.livejournal.com]

that's very intriguing.