STOLEN SEGWAY...

[GarySailor]

Yep, sad to say, I hope mine is the first, and if you all
are more careful than I, the last Segway stolen.
I had the bad habit of when taking a break from riding my
HT, I would just wrap the Kryptonite bike lock around the shaft,
and around a upright of the carport. In plain sight out of my
kitchen window and of neighbors who are all friends...
I'm suprised that me or my dog or the neighbors didn't hear
or see anything. This was around the noon hour, nice sunny day
here in the Seattle area. The good news is, I have the keys.
I live in a small town (Kent) so most of the local police know
of me and my Segway. (They think it's cool) They know it's one
of a kind in this area and cannot be used without the keys.
83 lb. paper weight right?
Whether someone pushed it out of the condo complex lawn mower style or maybe had a truck, don't know.
I will be rather busy today, as you can imagine. I'll try and
get back on the site to check reponses. If any of you have any thoughts, questions etc., feel free to e=mail me. Those I check quite often. Gary[/:(][/:(]

[toybuilder]

Yikes. Oh no. I'm very sorry to hear this news. I hope it is quickly recovered undamaged.

http://www.pasadenasegway.com

The Segway is to a Moped like a Helicopter is to an Airplane.

[wayne]

Gary, good luck on the recovery of you Segway.

I sure hope you find it.

You may want to put this on your local radio station and maby someone will hear about what happen and may realize that they have seen or know something.

Wayne

[pt]

i emailed with gary, there are some lessons to be learned here.

-the ht was not locked up, so someone most likely put it in a truck/van and left.
-if you're debating about insurance...here's something to consider.

read my security article, i might update it with this info from gary:
http://www.bookofseg.com/secure.html

on a more positive note, anyone who sees a ht being sold without keys email gary, also he reported this to segway so we'll see what happens if someone tries to get a set of keys from them. the people who took this most likely have no clue how to use the ht, they'll need to offload it soon.

cheers,
pt



======================

segway ht journal:
http://www.bookofseg.com

other stuff:
http://www.flashenabled.com

[jillmac]

Wow! That's terrible! I think the local news is a good idea. At least that way if someone sees a Seg they will contact the police.

You must be stunned! I know I will be locking mine in future. I have had rather a cavalier to security.

Hope it turns up again and soon. Insurance? Maybe we should have something like Lo-Jack.

Jill

Nothing is inexplicable, merely unexplained..... Dr. Who

[BenBethel]

WOW! What silly fools would steal a Segway?

Okay, there really needs to be a system similar to the "wherify" GPS locating system (http://www.wherifywireless.com/corp_home.htm) built in so that they can be located anytime, anywhere!

There needs to be warnings around the keyport that says "impossible to start without 64-bit encoded keys" and "contains satellite anti-theft location device" and "stealing this is a felony considered grand theft"

We should all contact Wherify *and* Segway and tell them to put a GPS locator inside - it's not that expensive! And we could get tons of riding data each day, too.

Keep us posted - please call your radio and news stations - get some press on this! You'll find it much quicker than you think!

www.benbethel.com

[pam]

Oh, Gary, I'm so very sorry to hear this. The most frustrating part of it, too, is that all of a sudden, you don't know who to trust. You might also put an ad in the personals (if you haven't done that already) just in case someone sees it. It's certainly not going to do the person who steals it much good. Maybe once they figure that out, they'll dump it and the police will find it. I'm assuming you've turned it over to the police so they'll have a report.
Pam
Pam

[jgassor]

Dont forget that the wheels/tires and batteries could easily be sold off and the rest of the HT dumped. What about the control shaft? is that encoded or just the base platform. We will see at some point if items like these appear on such sites as eBay.

I hate to worry you, but there is a possibility that the thieves may return for the keys.

This is really sad news.

Jim

Live life to the full, get Tivo and get a Segway! http://segway.gassor.com

[ftropea]

Gary, that's terrible..

If there is anything I can do to help through this site - let me know.


Regards,

Frank A. Tropea

[/sc] Admin - "Keep your wheels on the ground!" - Contact Me (segwaychat@segwaychat.com)

[GlideMaster]

Sorry to hear about your misfortune GarySailor. Make sure you notify Segway LLC, just in case someone tries to get some keys made. Maybe once they find out they can't do anything with it they might abandon the unit. Was it branded or did you have any type of special markings on the unit? Everyone should make it there business to put some type of marks on their units in an inconspicuous place and in an obvious place, reason being if they see it marked in an obvious place they might not think to look in another place for a second marking.

<center>From The Lessons Of A GlideMaster </center>

[Kinky]

I'm so sorry for you. Hope you get it back undamaged and have you contacted your insurance yet?

I am absolutely elated about my machine and would be crushed if some idiot stole my Segway. I commute to work even in the rain and glide all over my neighborhood. I haven't had to put gas in the car since my Segway arrived.

I hope for a happy ending to your nightmare.
Anne

[pt]

if i ever saw any segway components on ebay i would attempt to purchase them, if they were from gary's area-- i'd pass their info along.

the control shaft is not encoded to the platform.

my thought-- these were passing dudes in a van / truck, they're not computer owners or could even ebay, they're stuck with a 80lb paperweight.

cheers,
pt

quote:Originally posted by jgassor Dont forget that the wheels/tires and batteries could easily be sold off and the rest of the HT dumped. What about the control shaft? is that encoded or just the base platform. We will see at some point if items like these appear on such sites as eBay.

I hate to worry you, but there is a possibility that the thieves may return for the keys.

This is really sad news.

Jim

Live life to the full, get Tivo and get a Segway! http://segway.gassor.com



======================

segway ht journal:
http://www.bookofseg.com

other stuff:
http://www.flashenabled.com

[ftropea]

I would go all out on this..

- obviously report it to the police.

- Then I'd speak to all my neighbors..

- probably post "Missing Seg" posters all over the place.. maybe offer a reward.

- perhaps contact the media.. might make an interesting story. If their air it soon.. it could help put pressure on whoever lifted it. Maybe it would help create some leads..

- Get all your friends and family to reach out. Sometimes we're connected to people who can help.. and we don't even know it. For example, your brother's friend could have a son who knows something... something weird like that. You never know...

- Make a lot of noise. Time and effort in the next 24 hours could save months or years worth or lamenting... the what 'if' and 'buts'

You've got a support group here too... so just let us know what we can do.

Good luck man!

Regards,

Frank A. Tropea

[/sc] Admin - "Keep your wheels on the ground!" - Contact Me (segwaychat@segwaychat.com)

[GlideMaster]

pt your assumption is probably correct. They may have seen him gliding around and knew where it was kept, but probably have no clue how to use the Seg or what to do with the unit.

Good idea Frank about contacting the news media. They would love to have the scoop on what we think is the first stolen glider.

<center>The GlideMaster </center>

[trevor]

What a bummer! Sorry to hear that GarySailor. Suggest you monitor EBay closely for second-hand Segways available in the Seattle area.

Also, maybe posting a reward for anyone who has information leading to its recovery. At the moment there is someone in your area who has a worthless (and hot) high-tech delivery cart and so the chance of getting at least something for it may flush them out.
trevor

[wayne]

Gary,

Since a lot of people don't know what a Segway is, you may want to e-mail or fax some pictures or the Segway to the surrounding towns police and sheriffs dept.


Wayne

[BenBethel]

Here are the emails for all of the Wherify departments... email and kindly ask if they have a solution that could be placed inside the Segway:

info@wherify.com
bizdev@wherify.com
customercare@wherify.com
jobs@wherify.com
media@wherify.com
sales@wherify.com

Plus, it's a great way to get your ridership data!

www.benbethel.com

[GarySailor]

Thanks, some good ideas from several of you. I'm heading down to the local police dept. later to give them an update.
I do have a clue or two that they can work on...
Also the local news paper is close by. I will stop by and have a talk with them... Gary

[BenBethel]

Oh - and your homeowners insurance should be able to cover this. Just keep in mind that a "CLUE" report on the property will cause your insurance to go up after one event and be canceled after the 2nd or 3rd...

www.benbethel.com

[JT]

Bummer... I really hope you find it. I was thinking that if you could lock the wheels when the Segway was off (i.e. they just wouldn't turn regardless of a cable) it would be a lot harder to roll off like that.

Good luck!!!

[dleesim]

Gary,

My brother's a cop in Indiana. When my bike was stolen from my garage while living in Minneapolis (I called him to gripe) he told me to immediately get in my car and drive in slow, concentric, expanding circles from my garage out into my neighborhood. Within half an hour I found my bike, the guy who took it, and (as luck would have it) a cop in a squad car (writing a ticket) not 500 feet from my garage. The guys who took your Segway are most likely local. It was clearly a crime of opportunity and I would bet that your Segway is sitting in some kid's basement not more than a quarter mile away from you right now. If Kent is small then the cops are familiar with the town's "likely suspects". I would buy a cheap cell phone with a disposable number, post flyers all over your neighborhood asking for information. One of your neighbors knows, or will soon will know who snatched your Segway. Thiefs have hard time keeping their mouths shut. You might get a call.

The thiefs probably have pulled your Segway apart if only to try and figure out how to jumpstart it. Failing that I'm guessing they're going to hang on to it as a cool trophy rather than throw it away.

The other thing you might do is post an ad in the Kent newspaper. Say you're looking to buy a Segway, or Segway parts, will pay anything, and give out that disposable number. When you get contacted make sure you bring a cop along.

Good luck,
David

[GadgetmanKen]

Gary, really sorry to hear about your loss of your Segway. Wow. That's a real bummer. Did you have it insured? Did you get it with a credit card? Sometimes credit card companies have theft insurance built into your purchases.

Almost everytime I've had something stolen its been because of my neglect of securing it properly. And other times I've found evidence that someone nearby (neighbors) took it. Bits and pieces of things used to gain access. Go over the area with a fine tooth comb if you have to. I once solved a hit and run accident on my car by looking at the pieces of debris and glued them back together, looking for paint chip markings and then looking for vehicles in my subdivision for damage and color markings and asking a few questions. Worked out in my favor in court. Be your own best detective, because in most cases the cops don't give a darn about your stuff, iow, they aren't motivated because it wasn't their stuff thats missing. Know what I mean?

You say you live in a condo? Like most condo owners they usually don't have to mow their own lawns. Did you have your grass cut that day? Perhaps one of the mowing crews took it. Or a contractor in the area doing some repairs. More than likely it was someone nearby, working, lives or visits frequently, in the area. Do you live near the entrance of the condo complex? Thats not always a good sign, tho. Use your inner instincts, go with your gut feeling. Perhaps they will return it, figuring what use is it to them without a key. Anyway. Good luck.

"Wouldn't it be cool, if?...is like Folgers in my cup"

[GarySailor]

More good ideas, thanks guys (n gals). Hmmm MasterCard theft insurance? Will have to check that out.
I have been doing a lot of sniffing around localy. This morning, found one of my riding gloves, had been spit out by
the lawn mover. (contracted by the Condo) Also have info on
a local truck that was parked within 50 ft of the Segway in the time frame it was stolen. I have the info of the company truck and driver, will pass on to the local police...
Gary

[tak]

I had a scooter stolen from me by neighbors, & the police found it & locked up the repeat offender kid a while. I put posters with a picture up everywhere I could. The kid was seen a couple of times before the police got him, as I heard. I sure wish you good luck & hope your town is small enough. It's also a warning for me not to trust mine for even a minute!

[mcs37]

quote:Originally posted by BenBethel

We should all contact Wherify *and* Segway and tell them to put a GPS locator inside - it's not that expensive! And we could get tons of riding data each day, too.

I was trying to invent something like this myself, and it would use available WiFi hotspots to get onto the Internet to report its location.

It does seem really, really stupid to steal a Segway since it becomes essentially useless. Why in the world would anyone do that? My guess is whoever stole it is a moron who doesn't realize that it's a very expensive, very heavy paperweight without the keys.

There are only 10 types of people in this world: those who understand binary and those who don't.

[BenBethel]

mcs37 - great idea! Why not put some kind of wi-fi capability in there? That would be fantastic... only if it keeps searching out a hotspot and wherever it hits one it sends out an email or ping or something that would give it the IP address where it's at - it could eventually provide you with enough information to tell you where it's at, right? It'd be cheaper than wherify...

I did email wherify and asked them if they could work on a solution for this type of problem... hmmm.

Ben

www.benbethel.com

[opti6600]

Actually guys, I've been planning on getting Wherify for my Seg for ages...I just need to convince my dad to cough up the $ for the plans. I'm going to look into it, but I think the best way to approach this would be to rig something up either underneath the platform, or somehow mod the Seg in a way to make the watch installation unnoticeable. If I ever do this, I'll keep you posted. I have an idea though...

Frank and other administrators of SegwayChat, I'd like to call upon you guys to offer a simple measure to this. Could you make some sort of page, either by Sticky or database or static content manuall updated, where we can post any HTs that have gone "missing" one way or another? Serial numbers only, no key codes obviously, and any identifying marks or other stuff that would make this Segway unit a bit unique.

Members, let's consider some kind of definite and visible badging for our units. Something durable, maybe even a metal emblem (all costs for materials paid by purchaser) with a unique number on it, with the number linked to SegwayChat somehow. This way not only can we identify fellow SegwayChat seggers, but also find obvious missing ones (if this were the case, the lost Seg here could have an epoxied badge on the front of the Power Base, low profile so as not to be easily removed, but also simple to apply. If it were just white numbers, I'm sure Segway wouldn't have too many problems when it came to warranty stuff, as it's just a number that can be passed on if necessary after being repaired.

Deviant, you're putting yourself in a major spot, especially with this landmark development, by being the only person other than the owner and LLC that have the Key codes for users' HTs.

Good luck Ben. I'm sure it won't be too much of a problem. Just remember to call Segway and report it missing. If the geniuses call LLC and ask for replacement keys or why it won't work, they can nab them that way.

-Jordan

[MONTIE]

What a big downer. I'm so sorry for you. Hope they recover it and I've got a Texas rope to drag that bum with. I would bet alot of Segway owners would show up to that drag meet.......Montie

[BruceWright]

Montie,

I'm uncomfortable with that sentiment. Please tell me you aren't referring to the incident in Jasper Texas.

-Bruce Wright

Segway: Vehicle of Dream

[BenBethel]

I remember when the service guys were working on mine that the serial number was etched on a few of the pieces, which was nice.

The problem with getting wherify to work is the GPS antennae are not great under something without a clear view of the sky - and if you're indoors, forget it. I think it will be a fun challenge, but it'll happen!

Ben

www.benbethel.com

[larryKay]

Get a Lojack !

Larry

[Brooster]

Ohhh, Man! The GlideMaster phoned me at work today and told me what happened. I'm sure sorry to hear about your misfortune, Gary. Hoping you get it back real soon.

Broo

Brooster

[GarySailor]

Thanks y'all for the well wishes and concern.
Some good ideas, some of which I've used...
Gary

[terryp]

Gary,

I'm thinking about you up here in Kenmore. Hope there's good news soon. If there's anything I can do, just say the word.

Practicing Safe Segs in Seattle

[mzokc]

Gary, A shock to say the least. A serious injury would be far worse; the Segway is replaceable! I locked mine outside the bakery today and it gathered far more interest than the three times I glided inside the bakery!

A whole house alarm system is standard equipment in OKC. Keeping the Segway hidden inside creates an police call if someone attempts to take it.

If it is ever stolen, I plan to lock up the keys at work. Just let the thieves try to get onto a military base! A safe deposit box is another option until the HT shows up.

Call all the TV stations! This is WAR (Will Announce Removal.)

Mark

[god1138]

Gary,

I'm sorry to hear about this unfortunate circumstance. I've talked at length with several friends and coworkers about the "what if someone steals it?" thought -- and I firmly believe that your Segway will be found. A large part of this is, not many people have Segways -- bicycles may be a dime a dozen, but hardly anyone has a Segway. Whoever stole it will soon be bragging to friends, showing it off (even though it's not able to be mobile) and word will get around quickly. Since they are a rarity, I doubt any thief would not brag about it. Someone will talk, the thief will be found and located, and hopefully it'll come back to you soon. I guess that is a plus of being an early adopter -- it's a very visible device and you can't really set it in a corner hoping it will blend in with the surroundings. It stands out like a sore thumb, and I just know someone will spout off about it.

Put up flyers -- even offer a small reward -- all around your city. Place signs in all visible, high-traffic areas. Grocery stores, the post office, anywhere you can. You've got to make sure people know your Segway is missing, and the visibility must be high.

Again, I'm sorry to hear about your loss, and I hope all goes well in the hunt. I know in my heart there will be happier days ahead.

Take care, and all my best!


-Robert
"BORN TO GLIDE"

[Deviant]

Wow, this is definitely something nobody wants to be the first in. However, I've heard that one was stolen in the Seattle area months ago, and found a few blocks later in the bushes. I agree with most posters that a truck or van would be more likely.

The more effort you put into this, the better your odds.

I see that the news of this Segway has made it to the yahoo group's forum (segway-open). Great. The more visibility amongst those that know Segway's, the better your chance of recovery.

Have you checked with your homeowner's or renter's insurance yet to see if your downside is less than 100%?

Wishing you the best, and I know you'll keep us posted.

[fastfreddie]

Gary--I'll add my condolences. I have put a small label on mine next to the key port which says, "Vehicle requires its own encoded digital key to operate." I realize that this is closing the door after the horse is gone, but it may help prevent future thefts.

Godspeed,

ff

"Don't look up, don't look down, keep your eyes on the road."

[Brooster]

LadyBroo's originally an Oregon girl, and has a sister who lives in Kirkland, so we get out to the Seattle area occasionally. LadyBroo's gut feeling upon hearing this news was that whomever stole it might try to bring it back, feeling guilty/stupid ... especially after realizing that they can't use it. But with media and police attention, that probably isn't gonna happen. I think she's probably right about that.

I know a little about what the area is like ... what I fear will happen is that after the theives look at their "trophy" for a couple of days and realize its uselessness without the keys, they'll simply make it "go away." That may be a push off a steep hill in a remote area of forest, or a push or drop into some body of water. I don't think we'll see it on eBay. That's just my gut feel.

Gary, I sure hope I'm wrong, and only envisioning worst case scenarios. Our fingers are crossed for ya here.

Broo & LadyBroo

Brooster

[Balance]

I am sorry to hear about your loss! I hope that your Segway finds its way back to you.

I'll keep my eyes open in Redmond to make sure that I don't see anyone trying to use a Segway as a push mower.

I'll repeat what others have said...If there is anything I can do to help, just say the word.

-Adam

[toybuilder]

I had been planning for about a week now to go to my insurance agent to finalize the insurance for my Segway, but I kept getting side tracked by one thing or another.

After seeing your message this morning, I dragged myself into the car and made a beeline to my insurance agent to complete the insurance process. I realized from your misfortune that I shouldn't keep putting it off.

I'm sorry that your Segway was stolen, Gary Sailor, and I hope you soon get your Segway back and unharmed, or at least get your insurance protection.


http://www.pasadenasegway.com

The Segway is to a Moped like a Helicopter is to an Airplane.

[Kinky]

Hasn't turned up yet? Thought for sure it would've been found abandoned somewhere.
Bummer, hope you get it back undamaged.

[fredkap]

Had all of my office computers stolen over Christmas weekend in 1989...they were all recovered 2 weeks later...hope it happens to you.

Fred

[RAG1247]

Gary:

I hope you hear something soon.

I took a look at your location from a satellite shot on earthviewer and it is really neat the way the river goes around the area.

http://www.sonyguy.com/place11.jpg

Unfortunately it also seems that there are loads of places that someone could leave the ht.

Again, hope good news is heard soon

Richard
Ft. Lauderdale
http://www.sonyguy.com/stars_rag2.gif[/img=left] [i]If you can’t change the people around you, change the people around you

[Balance]

How is the search going? Almost everybody in my office has mentioned that they heard about your loss on local TV or radio. I hope the publicity helps turn up your Segway!

-Adam

[GarySailor]

No luck yet on the return of my HT. There was a good
article with picture in the local news paper and I did a
interview on a local radio station.
PT was good enough to help me with a poster (flyer) that
I will be posting locally with the help of several friends.
I do think that the HT was pushed away, so I hope it will
show up in the area. I am still thinking positive...
My home owners (state farm) just today decided that
they will not be covering it. I'm still working on the
theft insurance angle with Master Card, so far it sounds
promising...

[BruceWright]

Yikes on the insurance. Good luck with master card.

-Bruce Wright

Segway: Vehicle of Dream

[Deviant]

Sorry it hasn't shown up yet - especially with that insurance problem.

What was their reason for not covering it? Too expensive an electronic gadget that requires a rider?

[Brooster]

I checked with my insurance company (USAA) today, and they won't cover it under homeowner's either ... because it's "motorized."

Hang in there Gary, we're all hoping for the best outcome for you.

Brooster

[Kinky]

quote:Originally posted by Brooster

I checked with my insurance company (USAA) today, and they won't cover it under homeowner's either ... because it's "motorized."

Brooster



Its not motorized its electric...battery operated. You need to get some better insurance.

[god1138]

Those damn insurance companies -- I tell you, they never turn down your hard earned money, but when you need them most to give some back, they sure don't like it very much. Personally, this is the second insurance company mishap I've heard of this week from someone -- I'm starting to develop a real lack of love for them.

Sorry to hear about it, Gary... I wish they had given you better news!



-Robert
"BORN TO GLIDE"

[Deviant]

Electric motors exist. So what if someone steals an expensive vacuum cleaner? Of course, it also has an electric motor.

I imagine what they mean is that it is a "motorized vehicle." But then, for purposes of traffic laws, etc., it is not classified as that either. However, the laws usually say "for this purpose," meaning that one definition can be applied to other areas. Like a homestead exemption for property taxes is not the same as a homestead exemption for bankruptcy.

[mzokc]

quote:Originally posted by GarySailor

...My home owners (state farm) just today decided that they will not be covering it...I pay over $100 on a separate State Farm policy for the "L" coverage with 100 deductable (Loss To Your Recreational Vehicle.) They issue an insurance card just like the car for the "A, C, L100, and U coverage. The total per year is about $250.

May your HT show up quickly!

Mark

[pam]

quote:Originally posted by Brooster

I checked with my insurance company (USAA) today, and they won't cover it under homeowner's either ... because it's "motorized."

Hang in there Gary, we're all hoping for the best outcome for you.

Brooster


But USAA will provide you with a Progressive policy, Brooster, through their group that functions like an insurance agency and writes policies on other companies for what they don't cover. Mine was like $109 a year. Probably would have been less without the uninsured motorists.

[jefrose]

Brooster, when i was looking to insure the segway, USAA told me it was covered under my homeowner's if the theft occured on my property. I eventually went with progressive insurance for complete coverage. You might want to call USAA again.
Jeff

[jillmac]

Gary - I really thought with the publicity that you would have heard something by now. There's probably some scared kid with it stashed away in a shed or a bedroom closet, knowing full well by now that he cannot use it without keys and that with all the publicity he would be spotted right away leaving it somewhere!!! Hopefully, if this is the case he (or she) will have the sense to call you to arrange a handover!!

With my Seg gone for a few days (at my suggestion) I know how much I miss it. Good luck (again) I really hope it turns up, or that the insurance covers it so you can replace it.

Jill

Nothing is inexplicable, merely unexplained..... Dr. Who

[Brooster]

Thanks Pam and Jefrose ... I got all set up with Progressive through USAA today. A little more peace of mind. :)

Brooster