Glitch causes Ginger riders to fall off

Segway is recalling about 6,000 of its high-tech scooters, because a problem with their power could cause riders to fall off.

The recall affects all Segway Human Transporter (HT) models sold to both consumers and corporations between March 2002 and September 2003. It includes the "p" series, which was being sold in certain test markets.

The scooters may not deliver sufficient power under certain operating conditions, particularly when the batteries are low, according to a statement released by the company. The power slow-down could happen if the rider "speeds up abruptly, encounters an obstacle, or continues to ride after receiving a low-battery alert," said the statement.

The power glitch could allow the rider to tumble and the company said three people had reported falls, one of which led to a head injury that needed stitches. The problem can be fixed with a free software upgrade, the company said.

The scooterlike Segway devices, formerly known as Ginger, have generated enormous amounts of press attention but have not taken the transportation world by storm. While there have been some purchases by US police forces and a test programme by the US Postal Service, there have also been concerns raised about whether the devices belong on public rights of way.

The company said in a separate statement last week that it has "very high confidence in the safety of the Segway HT, and this software upgrade further enhances the safety margins of the machine".

Margaret Kane writes for CNET News.com