I don't think anyone would have that thought process. However, if it was released initially without a pole and ridden sideways it would have been taken up by a

I don't think anyone would have that thought process. However, if it was released initially without a pole and ridden sideways it would have been taken up by a young early adopter base who would have made it seem cool. People aren't immune from cultural effects, and for most people the thing the segway has over walking is being fun, cool and futuristic.