Christopher Moyer wants Broad Ripple residents to know that Segways are not an exchange for physical activity-they are a way for people to connect and have fun with technology.

"Segways give people a new and fun way to use technology," he said. "It's fun to watch people try them and see a smile within minutes after they figure out how to use their Segway."

Moyer is president of Segway Indiana LLC, located at 853 East 65th Street, just south of the Broad Ripple Brewpub. Moyer's original shop was located in Carmel and he said that when he looked around the city for a new location, Broad Ripple "just felt right."

"Broad Ripple is a central location with easy access to downtown [via the Monon]," Moyer said. "I also believe there are people here who like technology and know about Segways. Our customer traffic has increased ever since we moved to Broad Ripple."

For those who may not know exactly what a Segway is, think of what the security guards down at Circle Center Mall ride around on. If you have not seen them either, a Segway is a two-wheeled, self-balancing transportation device invented by Dean Kamen and unveiled in December 2001.

Computers and motors in the base keep the Segway upright at all times. Users lean forward to go forward, back to move backwards and turn by leaning left and right. Gyroscopes are used to detect departures from perfect balance. In laws that regulate it, the applicable category is sometimes called "electric personal assistive mobility device" (EPAMD).

"The Segway will actually start talking (beeping) to you when it needs to be charged, so if you forget to plug it on your own, the technology takes care of itself," he said.

Segway of Indiana offers curiosity-seekers the chance to try one out at $45 for an hour tour. However, Moyer pointed out that even though the tours are great, the customer is really paying for the chance to ride on a Segway for an hour.

"I can probably say that we offer one of the lowest prices in the United States for tours," he said. "When people finish the tour though, they are more excited about the actual ride and the technology rather than the tour."

Segway of Indiana LLC not only has the Broad Ripple location, but they are also offering tours at White River Park during the Summer.

Beyond people wishing to just experience a ride, Moyer said that law enforcement agencies and people with disabilities are becoming some of Indiana Segway LLC's strongest customer base.

"We have had quite a few customers who suffer from MS (Multiple Sclerosis) but still have the ability to stand," he said. "I think they enjoy the Segways because it gives them the opportunity to not have to talk to others at belt level."

When Moyer was questioned about specific uses for Segway owners, he said that he rides his Segway down Broad Ripple Ave. on a regular basis.

"You obviously have to be cautious, just as if you were walking," he said. "Segways are currently the second fastest stopping vehicle, right after manual wheelchairs. Just like any other vehicle, you cannot ride fast or recklessly."

He continued by mentioning that many stores do allow people on Segways inside, but it is still definitely an area where "you have to test the waters" first. For example, Simon Properties (who own the Simon Mall chains, of which Circle Center is part) allow their security guards to use Segways, but not their customers. However, they are perfectly legal on sidewalks and the Monon Trail.

Moyer said the Segway showroom on 65th street will remain the center point for Segway Indiana, but they company will continue providing tours in various parts of the state. Moyer was kind enough to give a few members of the Gazette staff free Segway tours. Check out the above article for the rundown.