The Segway

Some time ago this very smart inventor named Dean Kamen unleashed upon the world an invention he thought would revolutionize the Urban City setting. This invention was known as THE SEGWAY. Despite all the accolades and respect that Kamen has, in the end he released a big electronic.. 2 wheeled nerd scooter.

Because no matter who you are, what you do with it, you look like a big ass dork. Seriously, I don't care if you're a cop, postal worker, government agent, whatevers, you look like a big ass dork riding a self balancing scooter.

Then I come upon this article:

link

Now normally I love reading things from Popular Mechanics, they're usually on the money and do have some great articles. But when they decide to write an article entitled:

4 Practical Reasons the Segway Isn't Actually That Lame Anymore

I become very afraid because in the end the 4 practical reasons aren't actually all that damn practical. Look I think the Segway is a cool device, I really do, I just don't see how it's a justifiable item. Let us address the 4 reasons:

1) Policing - Now granted the added height and speed COULD be a benefit to cops. However at the same time you're making the cops even more out of shape by allowing them to ride something that doesn't benefit them in any physical way, that say .. rollerblades or a skateboard or something that would make them MOVE their actual feet. Cause come on every time I see cops on Segways I don't think 'Damn that guy looks intimidating' I think 'Oh look an out of shape cop on a Segway, scary.' Don't forget the cost and maintenance of the Segway vs those fit cops who actually ride mountain bikes.
2) Worksite Mobility - Are you fraking kidding me? This guy can't get a pushcart, load it with the equipment, and wheel it over to the other side? How much time do you ACTUALLY save with the damn Segway? Not to mention the fact that you're adding a $5,000 dollar cost to save like 2 minutes vs walking with a push cart?!?! Arghh!
3) Saving Lives - Ok I will bend for this one as this makes some practical sense. I can't think of any other method for paramedics to get onto a scene with equipment quickly and safely, than with a Segway. But the only issue again is the cost of the damn things, I thought hospitals were strapped for cash to begin with? Can you honestly tell me getting $5,000 dollar Segways is justifiable?
4) Saves Gas - This .. is by far the stupidest thing I have ever read. You know what else doesn't use Gas? A freaking bicycle! You know what also gets you in shape? A freaking bicycle!! There is no justifiable reason to get a damn Segway at $5,000 + electricity usage when you can ride a freaking bike!!

So to sum up the damn thing costs $5,000 dollars, uses electricity, has maintenance costs, and it's supposed to be practical?

Ugh.