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It's a New Way to Get Around

By Laura C. Girardi

All year, rumors have been flying about a secret new transportation device from millionaire inventor Dean Kamen. The invention was code-named Ginger, or simply "It." Last week, Kamen unveiled his Segway Human Transporter, a two-wheeler that travels up to 17 miles an hour. It weighs 65 to 80 pounds and costs up to $8,000. Kamen says it will change the way we travel.

The Segway has no pedals, gears or motor. "It acts as an extension of your body," Kamen says. The Segway's sensors can tell which way its rider wants to go just by the way the rider leans. Riders can't fall off!

Kamen hopes folks will use the Segway everywhere, especially in cities. Atlanta, Georgia, visitor's bureau employees will begin using the new souped-up scooters in February to patrol the tourist district.

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