[MikeDubreuil]

I think the real problem with the Segway is that it's a solution to a problem that doesn't exist. Sure it's a fun toy, but it's not practical. If you live in the extreme rural areas of the US there are literally miles seperating you from your destinations.

The big seller was supposed to be people in the city. I live in Boston and we have a decent public transportation system, as do most residential cities. I wouldn't take a Segway to class, it's a 5 minute walk. If I was going out for the night I would just take the T or bus (public transportation). Plus, there's the question about where to put your Segway and keep it secure. Do you think some bum or drunk idiot knows that the thing won't work with out that specific key? Of course not, it would be stolen. Unless you're going somehwere you know it will be secure, you better have good insurance on it.

The best applicant for a Segway is people who live in suburbs. When you want to go to a friends house or run down to the corner store. Basicly, when the distances are about 1 mile. Anything further and you'll probably take a car. If you can't afford a car, you certainly can't afford a segway.

The group of people who the Segway is best for is an extremely small percentage of the population. Teenagers who aren't old enough drive and parents are wealthy. Chief Delphi contest winners. The opulent who enjoy buying toys. People with revoked drivers licenses. Un-athletic police officers. On a serious note, US postal service employees in the suburbs or city.