29. On Two Wheels

Do you recall the hoopla and secrecy surrounding the introduction of the Segway? It was touted as a great invention that would change the way people moved. A few small tour companies in Sarasota have incorporated the use of the Segway as one of their guides narrates and leads a group around our fair city for two hours. All of the participants are riding on a Segway. Since there are few people who have ridden on this relatively new mode of transportation, the guide has the obligation to teach his group of tourists to properly ride, steer, turn, slow and stop their assigned Segway before venturing forth.

Zack introducing Segway to his tour group.

Last week, I dropped in to watch this “Segway 101” as Zach, the tour guide, prepped his group of six for their journey. He told them a few things about the machine and then demonstrated techniques for maintaining proper stance and balance; how to stop, start and turn; how to slow or accelerate; and how to dismount. He emphasized all of these things as important to enjoying the afternoon tour and then let his newbies practice a while in the parking area before their tour began.

Demo of techniques used for successfully riding the Segway.

It really looked like it could be fun. Zack said he has had only a few people who have fallen and, usually, it was a result of not paying attention. I think I will put this on my bucket list.

Last minute instructions.

When last seen, the group was heading toward the Ritz-Carlton Hotel.