Frequently asked questions

01- What is a Segway PT (Segway Personal Transporter)?

Segway PT is the first electrically powered self-balancing personal transport system. Smaller than the average adult, with the ability to mimic human balance, a Segway takes up the same space as a pedestrian and can go to all the places you can reach on foot. Segway PT allows people at home and at work to go further, move faster and carry heavier loads than they otherwise would be able to do on foot.

02- How does a Segway PT work?

The technological invention known as "dynamic balance control," is at the heart of a  Segway PT. This dynamic balance control allows the Segway PT to function smoothly in synch with your body movement. The gyroscopes and leaning sensors in the unit control the centre of gravity of the user at the rate of approximately 110 times per second. When the user leans slightly forwards, the Segway PT moves forwards. When the user leans slightly back, the Segway PT moves back.

03- Does a Segway PT work indoors?

Yes. All models of the Segway PT are designed to work in any environment where  people can walk. In order to improve indoor functioning, Michelin has created a special tyre that leaves no track marks. The  Segway PT is narrower than a standard door, it is clean and silent. There are zero exhaust emissions.

04- Can I use a Segway PT in different environments with different climates and terrains?

Yes. Just as when walking, all a Segway PT requires is traction to operate in any environment. The device is completely sealed and can function in wet or humid conditions. Our standard tyres have been optimized to adapt to a wide variety of terrains and environmental conditions. We also offer high traction tyres for better performance on a wide range of surfaces.

05- What can you do with a Segway PT?

In simple terms, a Segway PT allows you to go further, move faster and carry more weight than normal. The Segway PT is used in many situations by business and private users.
For private use, you can use the Segway PT to go to work, run errands, visit family and friends, explore the neighbourhood and surroundings and have lots of fun while you carry out your daily tasks.
In commercial contexts, the Segway PT is ideal for manufacturing plants, warehouses and large commercial areas, travel and tourism, public safety, business transport and university campuses, as well as for delivering mail, packages and products. You will find  Segway PT in some leading international companies and service industries including the US Postal Service, the National Park Service, the Atlanta City Ambassador Programme, Michelin, GE, Michelin, GE Plastics and Delphi Automotive Systems.

06- How will a Segway PT transform the way people live?

The benefits of using the Segway PT are wide ranging, including the creation of communities with better quality of life. It is believed that, in time, Segway PT will be at the forefront of the reconfiguration of the way we build communities, substantially extending pedestrian-only areas, thus improving how we use our urban spaces and design our public transport. The Segway PT will allow people to better organize their time, improve interactions within the community and contribute to a reduction in traffic congestion and pollution.

07- How fast does a Segway PT go?

Each Segway PT has different speed options that the user can select depending on the terrain and their level of experience. A Beginners Key (maximum speed 9,60 km/h pivoting at the lowest speed), allows users to build confidence as they use the machine. The Open Environment Key (maximum speed 20 km/h and fastest pivoting speed), allows users to move conveniently over large open spaces. Users are responsible for travelling on the Segway PT at the appropriate speed.

08- How long will a Segway PT last?

The Segway PT has been designed for extreme durability. In order to produce a long lasting device, two design routes were pursued. First of all, long lasting mechanical and electrical systems were constructed in order to be sold in solid state, so that even the mobile parts are designed to last. For example, the motors are brushless servo motors, to avoid using parts that can wear down over time. The systems were then subject to extensive and thorough testing to ensure that they fulfilled the proposed objectives. Secondly, a modular design was developed so that if any one part wears or breaks, it can easily be  replaced, thus ensuring the longevity of the product.

09- Is a Segway PT appropriate for me?

We recommend that all potential buyers consider some of the basic operational abilities before buying a Segway PT. Segway recommends users be 16 years old or more, weigh less than 115 kg. and more than 45 kg. All users should be able to step onto and off a 20 cm high platform unaided and without the use of a handrail. They should also have full use of their left hand.

The Segway PT is not a medical device. If you are considering acquiring one as assistance technology, we strongly advise you to  try one out first.  Please note that Segway’s Return Policy does not allow returns of used machines, therefore, if you are not sure whether Segway PT is appropriate for you, try one out before ordering or purchasing one. Please also note that in compliance with Segway’s Return Policy clients are liable for a 10% surcharge on inventory for unused returned machines.

10- Where does the name "Segway" come from?

The word "segue", is defined as  "a smooth transition from one state to another." A Segway PT (Segway Human Transporter) transforms a person into a pedestrian with an edge, allowing them to go further, move faster and carry more than they would be able to on foot. 

11- What are the origins of Segway?

Segway LLC, based in Bedford NH , was founded by the inventor and businessman Dean Kamen in order to transform the way in which people lived and worked. The Segway PT (Segway Human Transporter) is the result of years of investigation and development, lead by Kamen, with the goal of building a machine that would make a unique and lasting contribution to society. Segway LLC received funds from Credit Suisse First Boston Private Equity, Kleiner Perkins Caufield & Byers, and also from a variety of individual investors.

12- What other companies have been involved in the development of the Segway PT?

Segway united a vital group of leading industrial suppliers. A partner's list of those involved in the development process of Segway will be useful.

13- Where is Segway manufactured?

Segway PTs are manufactured in our plant at Bedford, NH.

14- How can Segway PT be safely integrated into pedestrian areas?

Just as pedestrians adapt their walking or running rhythm to those around them, Segway users adjust the Segway PT to a pedestrian environment. The machine is designed to respond to the rider’s movements - lean forward, move forward, lean backwards, move backwards - so that it functions as an extension of the human body. The thousands of sidewalk hours and use in other pedestrian areas by police, medical emergency staff and postal service employees are a testimony to the safety and utility of the Segway PT.

15- Is Segway PT safe?

A great deal of care and attention has been given to ensure that the Segway PT is safe. The balance technology of the Segway PT is truly revolutionary and offers riders an exceptional experience. Segway PT incorporates redundancy and sophisticated alarm systems into the design, and many thousands of hours of use have proven that the Segway PT is safe when used appropriately. It is important that users of the Segway PT understand their responsibility to ride the machine safely. The correct level of ability and understanding of the functioning of the device  will avoid injury due to loss of control or misuse of the machine.  Bear in mind that the Segway PT has not been designed, tested or approved as a medical device.

16- Who can ride a Segway PT?

The Segway PT is designed to be used by all kinds of people after undergoing the adequate training - no special abilities are needed.

Riders should be able to do the following:

Mount and dismount a Segway PT unaided, which requires the same ability as walking up and down stairs without using the handrail.

Riders should weigh between  45.5kg. and 115 kg.

Users should be able to operate controls with their left hand.

Segway recommends users be at least 16 years of age or above.

It is important to note that the Segway PT has not been designed, tested or approved as a medical device.

17- Where can I safely and legally ride a Segway PT?

The Segway PT is designed to operate in the same places where pedestrians can walk safely. It will ride over any surface where the tyres have traction such as roads, sidewalks, grass and dirt tracks. In many cities users will be able to take their Segway PT to any areas where people can walk. Nevertheless, in some areas there are restrictions of use, and in some places you may be required to use protective gear. Contact local authorities to verify whether any local regulations are applicable.

18- Where can I find my Segway PT serial number?

The serial number is below the mat on the back edge of the platform. Segway cannot provide the serial number until delivery of the machine. Therefore, wait until you receive your Segway PT in order to obtain the serial number.

19- Can I charge my Segway PT in my car or boat?

Yes, you can charge your Segway PT while you drive your car or in your boat using the appropriate DC to AC transformer. Each Segway PT normally consumes about 140 watts of power while charging. However, due to initial charging requirements, we recommend that transformers have a minimum power capacity of 350 watts for each Segway PT to be charged. Transformers that produce sinusoidal square waves are appropriate to charge Segways. Please contact us for further information.