Segway dealerships coming to Texas

Remember the Segway, Dean Kamen's invention that everyone said would revolutionize society? Well, it didn't. Five years after the wonder scooter made its debut, the only Segways that Houstonist sees regularly are the ones the Galleria security guards use. But that could soon change: The first "official" Segway dealerships in Texas are expected to open this year, bringing the joys of not walking to a state where people already know the joys of not walking.

There are two Segway retailers in Texas now: Zriders, which has locations in Houston and San Antonio. But Monique Apter, director of dealerships for Segway, told The Dallas Morning News that actual Segway dealerships will open in Houston, Dallas, Austin and San Antonio (the company's website includes a link for people wanting to open dealerships in Dallas and Austin, but doesn't mention Houston or San Antonio). Segway already has dealerships or retailers in 42 states, and the company says revenue is increasing 50 percent a year.

The Segway HT i180, the model aimed at the average scooter commuter, can carry up to 260 lbs and has a top speed of 12.5 mph. The company also offers a police cruiser and an off-road scooter (which we're sure will appeal to ATV enthusiasts). Segways generally sell for about $5,000.