Some common questions often arise and we’ve compiled them into one, easy-to-read section. Should you have have further questions, feel free to call us.
What is a Segway?
A Segway is a two-wheeled, self-balancing transportation device designed to go wherever people go. It is easy to learn to operate because of its technologically advanced design that senses your body movements. Lean forward, go forward. Stand straight and stop. To increase speed, you lean forward a little harder. To slow down, you lean back. You’re always in control of the Segway. The comfortable platform for your feet and adjustable handlebar height make the process of gliding along second nature and an experience you’re sure to enjoy.
Can anyone ride a Segway?
Segways are remarkably easy to master, however we do require that riders be at least 16 years old (14 with parent or guardian) and weigh no more than 260 pounds. Riders must be able to perform such tasks as going up and down stairs (on foot) without assistance, and without using a handrail. You must be able to operate the steering control with your left hand and be able to stand on the Segway’s platform for the length of the tour you choose (times may vary and we certainly can take a break). A comprehensive training and practice session is required prior to each tour.
Our requirements are fairly straight-forward and exist for your safety.
- Recommend at least 16 years of age and must bring proof of valid drivers license, unless accompanied by parent or guardian
- Guests are encouraged to wear comfortable, closed-toe athletic shoes. Absolutely no heels, flip flops of any kind. We also do not permit the curved soled exercise shoes. Please wear sneakers.
- Helmets are required and will be provided free of charge. You may bring your own helmet.
- You must be at least 52″ tall. Please call with questions about weight.
- Must be able to maintain lateral, side-to-side balance.
- Must be able to safely step on and off the Segway without assistance. This is similar to ascending and descending stairs without having to use a railing.
- Must be able to comply with all instructions and warnings.
- Must meet Segway operator requirements for the machine.
- Must sign release form.
How fast does a Segway go?
Most of the time, the tours travel around 5 mph, (a little faster than a brisk walk), allowing people to see more of the tour in less time. Our tour guides will set the pace as you progress through the tour. The Segway unit itself can travel up to 12 miles an hour.
Are helmets required to ride?
Yes, they are. After all, it is a machine and as amazingly well designed as they are, there is always the human error factor. We want you to enjoy your experience and be as safe as possible, so we do require you to wear a helmet…and we provide them FREE to our tour guests!
What is your cancellation policy?
Electric Glide Tours requires 48 hours notice for Standard Tour cancellations and tour rescheduling. (See below for special vouchers) If you fail to show up for a reserved/scheduled tour or fail to give 48 hours notice of cancellation you will be subject to a re-schedule fee of $20. Custom Guided Tours, Special Events and Private Events cannot be canceled, nor do we refund any portion if one or more of your guests to not show up. If we have arranged for catering, food or special additions to the Segway tour experience, surcharges can apply to cancellations or modifications to your original appointment. We understand that life sometimes gets in the way, so we will do our best to accommodate your needs.
What about vouchers?
Groupon and Living Social vouchers for appointments are subject to the rules stated on your voucher. You are responsible for any and all sales taxes based on the price of your voucher. Individual terms apply per deal and outside of inclement weather (see below for weather rules), EGT does not allow cancellations for any reason. Rescheduling is only allowed with 48 hours advanced notice (or more). See your voucher for details and please be aware of your expiration date. We are very busy and we attempt to accommodate all guests, however if you have waited to book your Groupon or Living Social deal within weeks of it’s expiration date, we may already be booked for those dates. Please plan accordingly and call as soon as possible as dates (especially weekends) fill up fast. If we do not have availability before your expiration date, we do honor the full price of your voucher toward any of our tours.
What about weather?
Segway PTs are water resistant. We still offer tours if it is damp or there is a light rain. We even provide a FREE rain poncho should it begin to rain during any tour. If the weather becomes inclement, (thunder & lightening) we will have to cancel or discontinue the tour, and your tour will be rescheduled. PLEASE NOTE: Our tours will commence unless we notify YOU of inclement weather. Just because it may be raining where you are, the weather may be just fine in the area of the tour. Cancellation fees apply if you choose to change or cancel inside of our cancellation times.
What is a specialty tour?
Specialty tours are our customized red carpet events. Pick a destination and we’ll bring the Segways to you, train you and your group on-site and simply “host” the event. If you’ve got a favorite place you’d like to experience while riding a Segway PT, we will build a custom package to suit your needs. Having a party? Why not host it with a Segway PT? We can handle large groups. Choose a number of machines and we’ll bring them to your event with a host(s) who will provide complete training and safety education for your group, party or event. Customized red carpet events are available 7-days a week. Drop us an e-mail and tell us what you’d like to do and we’ll set up an experience you’ll never forget!
How does a Segway work?
The Segway utilizes a process of dynamic stabilization which balances the rider. This means, the Segway senses the rider’s center of gravity 100 times a second; this information is processed and used to reliably balance the Segway and rider. As the rider leans forward, the center of gravity moves forward and the Segway responds by traveling forward. The same applies for going backward. If the center of gravity is directly over the standing platform the Segway will remain stationary. You don’t need to be an acrobat or even incredibly agile — the Segway does all the work!
How long do the tours last?
Tours can vary in length and depend on which package you choose. Typically tours are one or two hours unless you’ve booked a specialty tour.
Where do we park in Ybor City?
Ybor city is, for the most part, “HC” (historically correct). Most streets are made of brick and do offer public parking. There are also various paid parking lots around town. Additionally, you will find a parking garage between 15th and 16th Street and 5th and 6th Ave. Then it’s just a short walk to the tour office located on 8th Ave directly under the Muvico Movie Theater. Garage parking fees vary and we recommend you be aware of any events going on in Ybor City. Sometimes parking fees are higher during various events. Make sure to use the map here on our page and make sure you know how to find us. You can zoom in and out to get a better view. Remember, you will need to arrive 15 minutes BEFORE your scheduled time. Please plan accordingly.
What about valet parking?
The valet stand is located directly behind our tour office on 9th Ave. There are signs for the valet, but they have no actual address.
Put this address into your GPS and it will take you to a place called The Castle. 2004 N 16th St Tampa, FL 33605
The valet stand is directly across the street from The Castle. We do validate for valet parking. The normal charges are $5 Sunday through Thursday ($4 with our stamp) and $10 Friday, Saturday and special event days. ($5 with our stamp) The valet company determines special event days as well as their price structure and prices can vary and in rare occasions, there is no discount with our stamp. These rare instances are up to the valet company, not EGT.
