A Hypothesis On Segway Hate

theodp writes "Admit it, IT is ingenious. Also, IT is surprisingly effective for certain uses, including real cops and mall cops. And if you tried IT, you probably smiled to yourself. So why all the Segway hate? Paul Graham looks into The Trouble with the Segway and offers a hypothesis about what prompts people to shout abuse at Segway riders: 'You look smug. You don't seem to be working hard enough.' Not that someone riding a motorcycle is working any harder, adds Graham, but because he's sitting astride it, he appears to be making an effort. When you're riding a Segway you're just standing there. Make a version that doesn't look so easy for the rider — perhaps resembling skateboards or bicycles — and Segway just might capture more of the market they hoped to reach."

Comments

Why are these only for the "rich?"

[eharvill]

I see a lot of comments stating how these are only for rich people, etc. I 've seen price tags in the $5000 - $10,000 range. How is this limited to rich people only? People pay prices like that for all sorts of items that are not considered necessities - TVs, computers, stereo systems, bicycles, motorcycles (when they already own a car), insert hobby of choice, etc. The list could go on.

I personally would not buy one, although I can afford one and I am definitely not rich by any stretch of the imagination. I think it's fine to hate them for whatever reason, but to hate them because only "rich" people use them so they can act smug and look down on other people is just plain silly in my opinion.

Re:Unacceptable on the sidewalk, stupid on the roa

[Ichijo]

...you would be an idiot to use them on the road.

You only say that because you don't want to share the road with slower moving traffic.

Yes, I've just accused you of being part of the problem. Now start being part of the solution.