Minipro with Parkinson's - Am I Dreaming?
 

This is my first post to the group!

I am 70 yrs old and somewhat disabled by Parkinson's. That is, without a cane, I walk like a drunken sailor but I'm OK just standing still.

I have been considering a Minipro with handlebar as a way to continue enjoying long walks with my wife.

I have been unsuccessful at finding a Ninebot dealer who has one with handlebars to try out.

I would be grateful for any of your thoughts or experiences.

I was focusing on the Minipro for reasons of portability.

Sincere thanks,
T2 - Orange County, CA

Good morning T2.I too have difficulty with mobility due to MS.Although I have not tried a Mini Pro,my concern would be with the smaller diameter wheels being able to handle uneven surfaces such as curb transitions and areas that are not paved.I own a i2SE and am considering a Mini Pro (with a "lean steer") for the same reasons as you mainly for ease of transportation.
If you purchase through Amazon you have 30 days to return it for a full refund no questions asked.I have watched lots of youtube videos on the Mini Pro to feel confident that it could be a viable alternative to the full sized Segway.

BTW...Welcome to the forum and please be sure to come back and share your thoughts on what you decide to do.

Thanks for the reply plumber802.

I was thinking of getting the Minipro from More4mini with the hybrid tires which I believe are over 1-inch larger and may help with pavement cracks, twigs, etc.

In any case, I'm going to wear a ridiculous amount of padding and protective gear, especially while learning.

I will be sure to report back as this project comes together.

Wishing you the best,

T2

The More4mini "Scout Edition" must be the one you are getting.Looks impressive with the aggressive tires and grab handles which will make it easier to load and unload from a vehicle.Are you getting the handlebar as well?

I am looking at the "Hybrid Edition" from More4Mini.

Yes, it comes with handlebar, kickstand and cell phone holder. I could buy the Scout frame later for $169. I think it just bolts on.

If I find that I absolutely can't ride the MiniPro because of the Parkinson's, I might just buy a Hoverseat for $79 and turn it into a go cart!

Now I just need to figure out how to mount a cane on the thing...

T2

You may be able to buy a broom handle clip/clips and somehow attach it to the handlebar.

Maybe like these:
http://www.acehardware.com/product/i...gaAkoSEALw_wcB

Very good idea! The "cane" I use to get around is really a lightweight adjustable trekking pole.

The MiniPro should be here around the 26th.

Amazon is selling the MiniPro "2018" Edition now for under $400. Two reasons I didn't get it:

1. The 2018 Edition is really a downgrade with smaller battery.

2. I understand it can be fairly difficult for a non-mechanic like me to change the tires and fenders (hybrid tires = larger fenders).

If I were younger or more able bodied, I would have done it myself and saved the money.

I also guess I will have to educate myself regarding any local Segway laws or ordinances limiting its use. I know nothing about the ADA laws, etc.

Heck, I don't even have a handicapped parking pass yet, but I'm going to get one!

Cheers,
T2

Yes,my "cane" is a trekking pole as well.I still have not investigated a way to mount my trekking pole to my lean steer without drilling holes.

I use industrial grade Velcro. It holds great.

Thanks Russ,I had not considered that.

@russ498 - Of course! The old standby. Thanks for reminding me.

I even think I have some in my tool box. I love it when that happens :)

Here's my take...
 

About 18 months ago I fulfilled my dream of owning a Segway when I purchased a MiniPRO with a handlebar. For the past 10 years my wife and I have been taking Segway tours in U.S. and European cities. Unfortunately, the full-size Segway is both unaffordable and impractical, as it costs about $6000 and weighs about 150 lbs. The MiniPRO is both affordable (a lot less than a Harley Davidson) and weighs about 30 lbs.

I’ve dealt with Alex at More4Mini in Madison VA. Check them out online. They are very knowledgable and carry a full line of MiniPro’s and accessories. I just purchased their adjustable height handlebar to upgrade from a fixed height one. Before I purchased it, they arranged for a “test drive” at a local retailer. I bought it on the spot! Maybe there' a local distributor who would let you try one.

I’m about to turn 70 and have no problem riding the MiniPRO. Over the years I’ve done my homework and have about 400 miles on it, so here are some suggestions especially for older folks:

1) I would stay away from the knee control especially if you have knee problems. I have not tried it, but honestly, having something to hold on to seems much more stable. The handlebar makes it operate similar to a full-size Segway.

2) If you have balance issues, this is not for you. I have talked to many seniors who marvel at the agility and freedom afforded by the miniPRO, but I always mention the balance issue.

3) This is not a cheap hoverboard. It is much sturdier, has larger tires and is better designed. The battery has Underwriters Laboratory certification.

4) In some places, like Washington DC and most of Florida, you can ride on pedestrian and bike paths with no problem. As each state, county and municipality may have its own regulations, it’s best to check local laws.

In other places, you can ONLY ride if you have a state issued Handicapped Sticker (like the one that hangs from you car’s rear view mirror). The Americans with Disabilities Act, which is in force in all 50 states, defines Segways as OPDMD – Other Power-Driven Mobility Devices just like motorized wheelchairs and mobility scooters. If you nicely bring this document to the attention of the powers that be, they may be willing to allow Segway use. You can find the regulations by searching for “OPDMD Department of Justice”. Many state parks and other facilities already allow them; you just have to ask. I rode through a glass exhibit at a museum in Florida under the watchful and amazed eyes of the security guards. I’ve also been successful at getting my county parks dept. to change their regulation prohibiting motorized vehicles (including motorized wheelchairs & Segways) by bringing the ADA regulations to their attention thorugh the local Office of Disability Services.

5) Some places that allow motorized wheelchairs and scooters restrict Segways because they have gravel paths. I’ve ridden on hard-packed gravel paths, but VERY SLOWLY! This brings me to the safety aspects of the MiniPRO. While they are similar to full-size Segways, there are important differences. The two most important ones are weight and tire size. We have ridden standard full-size Segways off-road (at reasonable speed) on a state park tour in Ft. Lauderdale over bumps, ruts and tree roots. I would never attempt this on a MiniPRO.

The other tricky things to navigate are handicapped curb cuts that are curved upwards as you approach them or do not have a smooth transition to the pavement. These things will throw your weight back and you’ll be in trouble. Sometimes you need to stop, shut the unit off and walk it up or down the curb cut.

6) Get a helmet! The most protective ones are those that are rated for BOTH bicycling and skateboarding. The bicycle-only ones do not have adequate protection for the back of the head (remember the part about upward sloping curb cuts).

7) Get a bell. The MiniPRO is stealthy and nearly silent. Until I got a bell, I would roll up slowing behind pedestrians and say “excuse me” from about 6 feet away. Without exception, they would always be startled. The bell is much friendlier.

8) You want the kickstand. It’s very useful when you get off and turn the unit off. It means you won’t have to find something to lean the MiniPRO against. Don’t forget to flip it up when you get back on. Sounds stupid, but since it’s on the opposite side you get on, it’s easy to forget. Bad things will happen if you forget.

9) Practice, practice, practice! Before you go out for an extended ride, give yourself some time to get accustomed to starting, stopping, turning and getting on and off the MiniPRO. Be aware that it DOES NOT self-balance with the handlebar (just like the full-size units). It will self-balance only with the knee bar. You need to recalibrate the unit to disable the self-balancing mode using the Segway-Ninebot free phone app.

To sum up, the Segway miniPRO is a wonderful way to get around if you have mobility issues and good balance.

Velcro strips as a cane holder
 

I use Velcro to hold my cane. Just buy two sided 3inch velcro at your local sewing shop. Some comes with a sticky base. I use that on the control shaft, I then wrap the other velcro strap around it. I also stick some velcro on the side of my cane, kind of assurance, like wearing a belt with suspenders!!

so I stick the cane on the velcro then wrap the other piece of velcro around it and it holds it perfectly.