Velotaxi-Cycle rickshaws at Berlin

If you thought cycle rickshaws are out of fashion or are meant for developing countries only, you're mistaken.

We saw many cycle rickshaws in Berlin town, ferrying tourists from one spot to another, giving tough competition to taxis.


The cycle rickshaws in Berlin are manned by young and healthy men (we saw a women cycle rickshaw driver too, refer image below), in contrary to the scene in India, where cycle rickshaws are often driven by old aged men.

Each cycle rickshaw can seat 2 peope apart from the rider and has some basic frame to provide protection from heat and rain. Wheels have disc brakes and cycles are well equipped with mirrors and other accessories to make the ride as safe and comfortable as possible.

Many of them had lined up in front of Berlin TV Tower. if you notice below, few rickshaws are also equipped with books and maps to keep the participants engaged.



Most of these cycle rickshaws are operated under the branding of Velotaxi, who help individuals earn some money by ferrying tourists around. Money is also earned from advertising. More details here: http://www.velotaxi.de/en

The Velo taxi's cycle rickshaw concept is gaining popularity all over the world. Don't be surprised if it comes to India in a fashionable way soon.

Before I end, below is a photo of me trying to ride a cycle rickshaw in Pondichery few years ago... It took some time for me to understand its braking system and I barely escaped hitting another vehicle.

Other Berlin posts (coming up soon):

• Holocaust Memorial
• Berlin TV Tower
• Berlin Canal Tour
• Berlin Wall (whatever is left of it)

Also check: Namma cycle initiative in Bangalore * New design valves * ICICI Bank cycle ads *
Other posts on Germany visit