This time I was coming out a store at the UVillage and saw someone bring one to a stop, turn it on its axis, and then go about the business of meter reading.
I went for a closer look, and the meter reader filled me in on how fun it is, though bumpy sidewalks are a bit uncomfortable (apparently, they’re not sprung at all). While she was off the machine talking to me and doing her work, it just waited patiently on its two wheels, rocking gently back and forth: it reminded of a horse grazing or a boat rocking on a swell more than anything on wheels.
They look bigger and more robust in person, bigger tubes and much bigger tires than I imagined from the pictures. I could see a whole population riding them, rather than cars or even bikes, for medium commutes and errands.