The Segway got a lot of things wrong, but it also got a few things right. These included the development of more rugged models for navigating more challenging grounds. In the past few years, we’ve seen a whole host of two-wheeled gliding platform scooters or balance boards that cost a tenth of what Segways do but many of them can’t veer far from paved level surfaces.
The URBY Board seeks to up the ante on the kind of environments for these two-wheeled self-balancing wonders with a balance board that has a bit more horsepower and bigger wheels (10″ vs. the standard 6.5″) as well as LED-based turn signals. The campaign video shows it taking on grass, ramps, the rain, pushing shopping cards and pulling luggage.
To keep its weight down, the URBY board uses a carbon fiber enclosure. The company is seeking $40,000 in its flexible funding campaign due to end October 4th. An URBY Board will set you back $549 (discounted from $999) with delivery due in November.
The key question with URBY Board is whether balance boards have failed to catch on with the mainstream because they’ve been underpowered or for other reasons such as social stigma or learning curve. URBY Board is betting in part on the former, but exacts a significant price premium. As with many predecessors, it will likely find its best customers among those with specialized commercial needs, but could appeal to those looking for something to motor them between train and bus stops.