When You're on the Go, These Devices Can Help

Right now, the rankings and categories Jukebox offers aren't that reliable. A talk station might have more music than chat. But the user reviews should improve the rankings over time. Best of all is that the drive stores all the software and data for carrying favorite Internet radio to any Windows PC.

It's also easier and cheaper this year to give someone his or her own laptop PC. New computers that are ultralight and ultra-affordable are now offered by most major makers such as Lenovo with its IdeaPad s10 ($400). With a 10-inch screen and shrunken keyboard, the IdeaPad weighs less than 2.5 pounds and easily slips into a briefcase or backpack. It runs on a less powerful chip with the minimum of memory to handle Windows XP. So this is no power user's PC: It's designed for light computing when you need E-mail and short-term Web access. The keyboard is too cramped for extended typing, though teens with smaller fingers might find it just right. They then can travel with their own mininotebook without putting at risk an expensive, conventional ultralight.

Which brings us to our most expensive, and perhaps most intriguing, new tech for the year. The Giant Twist Freedom DX bicycle ($2,000) employs a battery-powered electric motor to subtly ease pedaling. It's what bike makers are calling their "hybrid" technology. Unlike traditional electric bikes, the motor assists only when a bicyclist is pedaling, preserving a full sense of control and keeping some exercise in the equation. But from the easy first push on the pedals, it's clear that this model can take the sweat out of a commute. The batteries pop out for charging and for nonassisted rides. Be ready for effort; the bike is hefty, even sans energy packs. The combination of electric and muscle power extends the batteries' range to as much as 70 miles. That covers many commutes, making the cost less of an issue when gas prices are high.