The need for compact, maneuverable and functional vehicles is increasing every day. This is connected not only with the desire of a modern person to make his life more comfortable, but also with the obvious problems of city traffic jams and cramped space in general. And the technological potential provides wide opportunities for the implementation of such concepts. One of the inventions that meet the requirements of comfort, increased mobility and functionality, was the sibway (segway) - an electric scooter on two wheels, which refers to individual vehicles. The device combines some of the advantages of a bicycle and a motorcycle, while possessing more compact dimensions. Today you can purchase a version for both an adult and a child. The main thing is to have an idea of the design and correctly approach the choice of a specific model.
Design features
A small vehicle attracts with its view, although there is nothing special about it. The same wheels, a rack, handles, a body with a motor are familiar elements. Another thing is that in this configuration no one has used them before, since the operability of the device can cause doubts among an unenlightened person. So, the main technological highlight of the sibway is a unique self-balancing system. In parallel, the wheels for the scooter act as carriers of the platform on which the user stands, and also set the structure in motion. Management is provided through the steering rack. By manipulating it, you can direct this electroscooter. Now a few words about the power stuffing, which powers it. This part is represented by two electric motors with an average power of 2 liters. from. It turns out one "engine" per wheel. And do not think that this is not enough - even a person of dense build such a scooter can easily deliver to its destination.
Adult models
With the choice of a model for an adult, there were no problems from the very beginning of the production of this vehicle. Today, an electric scooter for adults is available in a wide range. Segway, in particular, offers several modifications to this option. The simplest is the i2 series, which has standard equipment and average technical specifications. This version is worth about 380 thousand rubles. Those who want to get maximum convenience should look at the i2 Commuter modification, which is already available for 410 thousand rubles. In this case, the owner receives a LED flashlight, a cable lock, mats and a steering wheel cover in the equipment of the scooter .
Also in the lineup of the manufacturer there are special versions for special needs. Among them, an off-road modification x2 with large wheels on which tire treads are present can be noted. You can also highlight the Adventure model, whose capabilities are also designed to ride in harsh conditions for this type of technology. Obviously, this is not the cheapest electric adult scooter. The price of this version is 445 thousand rubles.
Models for children and adolescents
Despite the fact that manufacturers claim a high level of safety of electric scooters, for small children they can become a risky form of leisure. For this reason, age restrictions were imposed on the operation of this type of transport for a long time - they could not be used until they were 16 years old. The first models for teenagers came out with restrictions on the mass of the user. For example, the Segway i series suggested that people with a weight of at least 45 kg would be able to handle it. At the same time, electric scooters for teens have the same option as their counterparts for adults, but differ in structural additions. Models for children did not keep themselves waiting. The French company Famosa has launched the Dareway electric scooter. Of course, in this case there is no question of a full-fledged imitation of a classic sibway, since the device has a third wheel and a reduced speed - no more than 2 km / h.
Key selection criteria
Among the main selection criteria should be the size, battery capacity, maximum speed and load capacity. As for the dimensions, they are, in general, performed according to the standards of full size or mini versions. The first option is most common, as it provides a smooth and soft ride, high load capacity and safety. However, it is worth considering the weight (50 kg), which is endowed with such a sibway. A standard electric scooter is capable of developing up to 20 km / h and overcoming about 40 km on a single charge. These options may vary depending on the power of the motors and battery capacity. If these indicators are few, then the possibility of expanding the potential of the battery should be initially envisaged.
Should I choose a mini Segway?
The concept of the invention of the electric scooter meant ensuring high maneuverability with a modest size and moderate power of the vehicle. In mini-sibvay these characteristics are brought to unprecedented heights. This is expressed in the fact that the wheels for the scooter and the main platform have a reduced size, and there is no rack with a wheel. Therefore, even in comparison with ordinary segways, such a device wins in mobility and compactness. They should be chosen because of their low weight. So, if the full-size version weighs 50 kg, then for the mini version the mass is 15 kg. Now about the shortcomings that seriously limit the audience of users of this type of technology. The fact that the steering rack is not provided significantly complicates the control process, which is reflected in a decrease in safety. It is only necessary to maintain balance with the body and hands without the help of a rail, so such models are more likely suitable for physically strong people.
Maintenance Features
Users familiar with the features of the Russian car service will certainly be interested in the issue of maintenance. Especially when you consider the novelty and, to put it mildly, the specificity of the segway. To begin with, it should be noted that the considerable cost of such models is largely due to the increased wear resistance and reliability of the parts. The entire elemental base of moving parts is designed for long-term operation. Regarding the power plant, it is also worth noting that the electric two-wheeled scooter is usually equipped with brushless servomotors. A broken part can theoretically be replaced. Another thing is that the guarantee for each item is given separately. For example, the battery is given 3 years, the transmission - 4 years, etc.
Reviews on the Seaways
The advantages of segways at the first acquaintance for many create a feeling of perfect transport, created for a comfortable ride. The owners note that it is difficult to find a more convenient type of vehicle that can provide the same peace of mind when driving. Of course, special admiration is due to its compactness and maneuverability in the form of the advertised ability to unfold on the spot. And already here you can highlight the disadvantages that an electric scooter has. Reviews quite often refute the myth that it is impossible to fall from a Segway. There is one subtlety. Indeed, the device itself is endowed with very high stability, but it does not apply to a person who may well lose control and fall under the force of inertia in the process of moving at high speed. There is also criticism regarding weight. Full-size units of 40-50 kg can cause certain difficulties in transportation.
Nuances of riding - what to consider?
One of the main factors that should be considered when buying a Segway is that the majority of Russian roads are not suitable for it. Such a device requires, if not an ideal surface, then at least without deep holes, high transitions and frequent joints. Of course, if we are not talking about off-road versions. On a flat surface, a two-wheel electric scooter, as standard, shows its best qualities. Especially in open areas with high-quality coating, you can get real pleasure by developing a maximum speed of 20 km / h. In megacities, segway is also useful - the main thing is not to lose concentration and calculate the forces that are still spent on manipulating the body.
Conclusion
This type of transport has every chance of becoming one of the most popular means of transportation of the future. In the modern world, an electric scooter on two wheels still feels uncomfortable due to unsuitable coatings. This is his main drawback, but otherwise he has every chance to outshine bicycles and motorcycles, which make him the most fierce competition. Segway wins due to its maneuverability, efficiency and ease of use. If we add environmental friendliness and the expected reduction in production costs, it is possible that such scooters will change the idea of individual transport in the near future.