On December 15th Patti got to test drive the iBot Mobility system. It's the incredible new device that looks like an ordinary scooter. But then it does something amazing, it stands up on two wheels!

This uses the same technology as you've seen in the Segway Personal Transporter. It raises up a bit like the Hannibal Twin 8 from The Great Race.

With the iBot fully raised, Patti is as tall as I am. After a moment of trepidation, Patti enjoyed cruising around like this. I think she could have kept it up all night.

But the most amazing thing to watch was stair climbing. A little frightening mabye, but the iBot really did climb the stairs in our house with Patti aboard! Two very nice iBot salesmen named Nick and Jason showed us everything. Though you cannot see him, Jason was above Patti keeping the iBot straight on the stairs. The iBot does not actually drive you up the stairs, but it mimics your movements. If you pull yourself gently upwards, the iBot adds power to the move, whatever power is needed.

Look for Patti to write or record some commentary on her experience soon.