If you’ve ever felt nostalgic about the 80s and 90s roller skate parties or are not a fan of bikes, you’re in luck. The roller skate trend is coming back and doing so in the most futuristic way possible — meet the Segway Drift W1 e-skates. Let’s first show you a live video of what the Segway Drift W1 e-skates can do.
Design
Actually, E-skates is a not a new concept per say. In fact, the first skate-like rideable was introduced at the International Robot Exhibition in Japan all the way back in 2009 and, recently, Razor has launched their Jett Motorized Heel Wheels. So how do the Xiaomi Ninebot Segway W1 Electric Balance Wheel stand out?
As you can see from the picture, the Drift W1 consists of two shoe-like contraptions. They may look quite minimalistic on the outside but actually come with a number of hidden features (which we will be getting into a bit later). The “skates” come with a durable magnesium-aluminum frame, which can withstand a maximum load of 100kg. The 3.5 inch rubber tires are suitable for a variety of terrains — though, riding on the pavement will definitely give you the most comfort.
On the back of the skates, there are large bright tail lights to alert nearby traffic and other pedestrians of your presence. You will see the off/on button next to the wheel — as well as several Segway logos imprinted on the surface of the skates.
Segway Drift W1 e-skates: speed up to 12km/h
Even though the Drift W1 look like the latest shoe fad on the outside, they are actually an efficient way of getting around. You can, quite effortlessly, speed up to 12km/h and even conquer small hills (up to 10 degrees gradient).
The e-skates can take up to 100kg in weight load — so, you should be able to travel with some light luggage once you feel confident in your e-skating skills.
The skates are powered by two 44.4Wh Li-ion batteries, which promise to provide 45 minutes of comfortable non-stop riding without the need for a recharge. When you need to juice up the skates, get ready to set three hours aside for a full charge.
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Segway Drift W1 e-skates: the learning curve
If you’ve already dabbled into the new and exciting world of rideables, then you have probably also had your share of mishaps when trying to master the latest gadget. The Drift W1 may well be an answer to these as the e-skates’ manufacturers promise that riding on them is just as natural as walking. Plus, there is no lengthy process involved in putting the skates on — forget straps and belts, all you have to do in hop on and the ride begins.
We are not saying that you will be in complete control on your very first ride — there is still some balancing and getting used to involved. But, compared to the uniwheels and other handsfree rideables, mastering the Drift W1 is significantly easier.
Segway Drift W1 e-skates: what about safety?
Having motorized feet that can travel up to 12km/h and nothing to hold on to may not sound like the safest way to get around. But the Drift W1 take safety seriously and come with all the features in place to ensure your ride under control. In fact, the Drift W1 has been given the American UL and European CE certifications for product safety. The 10mm thick silicone bumpers will efficiently minimize impact in case of a collision and the tail lights will make sure you are seen on the road even after dark.
Segway Drift W1 e-skates: Conclusion
Trying out the latest modes of transportation is a pricey hobby. And the e-skates do come at a price of a mid-range Xiaomi smartphone — just $407.92. This is not exactly pocket money — especially if you take into account that you can get the Ninebot Segway ES1 folding scooter for quite a bit less. Then again, with the Drift W1, you will be getting a very different travel experience and a level of freedom that is very hard to replicate with “traditional” techy transportation. The e-wheels are fast, safe, eco-friendly and innately cool. They would make a great gift for a first adapter and commuting to work, school or doing errands will definitely acquire a new edge when you are doing it on e-skates.
