Famous people riding Segways
Justin Bieber competes in a Segway race on the set of "The View," June 23, 2011.
The electric-powered personal transporter, introduced in 2001, has become more recognizable as it makes inroads in transportation, particularly when it's a celebrity riding it.
Dean Kamen
At a New York news conference on December 3, 2001, inventor Dean Kamen debuts the Segway Human Transporter, which his company, Segway LLC, describes as "a self-balancing electric-powered transportation machine."
The Segway HT was designed for use in cities as a solution to short-distance travel.
Human Transporter
Introduced more than a decade ago, the Segway personal transporter uses computer-linked gyroscopes and an electric motor to move the rider, at about 12 mph. As the operator leans forward, the Segway moves forward; lean back, and the Segway moves backwards.
There are now models for consumer, business and recreational uses, as well as for law enforcement. It also can be adapted for different terrains.
Jeff Bezos
Amazon.com CEO Jeff Bezos stands on a Segway before opening the NASDAQ Stock Market November 18, 2002 in New York City.
When the Segway initially went on sale in 2002, it was only available via Amazon, at a cost of $4,950.
Jackie Chan
Hong Kong action star Jackie Chan rides a Segway Human Transporter during the 9th Asian International Security, Safety and Fire Protection Show and Conference on June 7, 2006 in Hong Kong, China.
Economy Minister Wolfgang Clement
German Economy Minister Wolfgang Clement rides a Segway personal electro-vehicle during the opening of the International Handcraft Fair in Munich, March 4, 2004.
Princess Maxima of the Netherlands
Dutch Princess Maxima wheels around on a battery-powered Segway during the traditional Queens Day celebrations on April 29, 2006 in Almere, The Netherlands.
Kevin James
Actor-comedian Kevin James, promoting his comedy, "Paul Blart: Mall Cop," races NASCAR stock cars with his Segway at Texas Motor Speedway, January 14, 2009 in Fort Worth.
Kevin James
Kevin James rides a Segway down the red carpet during an appearance at the Mall of America to promote his film, "Paul Blart: Mall Cop," on January 12, 2009 in Minneapolis, Minnesota.
Kurt Warner
Quarterback Kurt Warner of the Arizona Cardinals rides a Segway across the field with teammates before the team's training camp at Northern Arizona University, July 31, 2009 in Flagstaff, Arizona.
President George W. Bush
U.S. President George W. Bush falls off a Segway at his parents' home in Kennebunkport, Maine, June 12, 2003.
Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi
Japanese Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi enjoys a ride on a Segway, which was a gift from U.S. President George W. Bush at their last meeting, in Tokyo on December 16, 2005.
In Japan, the personal transporter was banned from public streets.
King Albert of Belgium
Belgium's King Albert drives a Segway during the ceremony for the Queen Paola prizes for education, May 25, 2005, in Brussels.
Prime Minister Ehud Olmert
Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert (right) tries a Segway he received from U.S. President George W. Bush, at the White House June 4, 2008, in Washington, D.C.
Steve Wozniak
Apple co-founder Steve Wozniak (left), long a Segway devotee, plays Segway Polo.
Andrea Petkovic
Professional tennis player Andrea Petkovic of Germany races her coach, Peter Popovic, on a Segway during Day Four of the 2010 China Open at the National Tennis Center on October 4, 2010 in Beijing.
Noel Lee
The CEO of Monster Cable, Noel Lee , arrives with a guest and a Segway for a party at Spindler & Klatt on September 6, 2011 in Berlin, Germany.
Neil Wagner
New Zealand's Neil Wagner plays with a Segway as the rain calls off play during Day One of the first international cricket Test Match between New Zealand and England played, at the University Oval park in Dunedin, on March 6, 2013.
Dark Lord of the Sith
Photographer Wesley Fryer captured Darth Vader riding a Segway in the Edmond, Okla., 2014 4th of July Parade.