Lemmings or people?

A dozen years ago I drove a pedicab in Washington, DC… think rickshaw built on a mountainbike frame. I hauled tourists and locals for a fee. The little company had four cabs and we stayed in touch with hand-held radios. Lots of stories from that experience.

But I thought of one in particular tonight over dinner with friends. I often found myself hustling fares at the Foggy Bottom Metro stop in the evenings half-way between the Georgetown bars and the monuments on the Mall.

When a train pulled in, I’d be enveloped in a sea of people flooding by. Once the tide ebbed, assuming I hadn’t landed a customer, I’d settle in waiting for the next wave. In those intervals, I realized that I wasn’t alone. A half-dozen of us stayed put, while thousands of strangers kept moving.

The cop, the souvenir vendor, the panhandler, the mechanic working on the escalator, the girl with the guitar and open case, and me.

After a few rounds, a rapport developed. “Did you see the guy with the hair?” “Yeah, I wonder what he does when it rains?” Whatever… my point is that we treated each other as humans; we shared friendly chit chat.

I had never stood still at a subway stop for 20 minutes before. What had I missed?

I viewed the teeming masses slipping by us as curiosities and potential customers. The street musician and homeless guy probably wondered who might be a soft touch. The cop was looking for troublemakers. The mechanic maybe just saw weight limits being exceeded. I don’t think any of us saw them all as people. None of us standing still tried to make a real human connection with the movers… although if one of them had stopped and hung out for 20 minutes he’d likely have joined our little social club.

When you're in the queue, waiting on a corner, or cruising down the mall, how do you view the people walking by?

From Front Porch.

Pedicab a Driving Force in I Love NY Commercial

February 20, 2007 -- While the city tries to clamp down on all the pedal-powered taxis clogging Midtown streets, the state has made a pedicab driver its tourism pitchman.

A helpful pedicab driver carting tourists down a busy Manhattan avenue is featured prominently in an "I Love New York" TV ad produced by the state - sharing equal screen time with Knick star Stephon Marbury.

"It seems problematic to promote pedicabs to tourists and then restrict them so that when tourists arrive in New York, there won't be any pedicabs for them," said Chad Marlow, spokesman for the NYC Pedicab Owners Association.

City officials say their policy doesn't contradict the spot, which has aired off and on since the summer.

"We want to have pedicabs," said Mayor Bloomberg's spokesman, Stu Loeser. "But the administration has to balance the fact that tourists come here and like them with making sure they do not hinder people who live here, work here and go to school here."

There are about 500 pedicabs currently working city streets each day. Although the operators have insurance, the industry is virtually unregulated.

Under a bill being considered by the City Council, a cap of somewhere between 300 and 350 pedicabs would be set, along with new licensing and safety standards.

The city also is seeking a ban on "electric assist" pedicabs, which are equipped with a small motor that makes them easier to pedal.

The taxi and hotel industries have both lobbied strongly against pedicabs, but the drivers argue that they do not take business away from yellow cabs nor do they cause congestion.

The Rumor Mill: #5 No second chances

Rumor #5: We don't care about driver's problems; all we care about is money. No one gets a second chance.

I'm amazed that the words of one or two unhappy people can poison the well... and how eager some are to believe the worst. I guess that explains the success of tabloids and gossip columns.

One particular driver rented a pedicab several times without paying, and when he did pay, wrote us bad checks. He made excuse after excuse and promise after promise, but never came through. He left, owing us several hundred dollars, and was on the street riding for our competitor. When we took steps to try to collect what was owed us, including confronting him directly on the street, the pedicab community was outraged (You're f'ing up!).

The rumors went like this: They're too hard on the poor guy. They never gave him a chance. He needed a hand, not a kick in the ass (we heard this just last week). They're taking away his ability to make a living. All they care about is money.

Funny thing, he ended up screwing the other company too. But we're the bad guys for holding him accountable and trying to get paid. We're the bad guys for not just letting it go. Someone actually told us that we're unethical for taking money from pedicab drivers in the first place - like we should just make our cabs available to whomever, free of charge.

We've discussed our Problem Child in previous posts, which was another situation that fed the rumor mill. If you read the posts and comments, you'll get a feel for the talk generated by this one.

Here's the way we see things:

1. Our pedicab drivers are all adults. We treat them like adults and expect them to act like adults. Yes, that means they have to be responsible.
   
2. Our policies apply equally to everyone. All our drivers sign a lease. Our rental rates are the same for everyone, and they are all expected to pay their rent on time.
   
3. Do what you say. If a person says they're going to do something and makes a commitment, then we expect them to follow through. They should expect the same from us.
   

We understand that sh*t happens. In most cases, if a driver comes to us and communicates with us, we'll try to work something out. Usually, we expect something in return (no free lunch), so it may not be exactly the deal he had in mind (if he was looking to get something for nothing).

For example: in exchange for rent, we may ask for help with maintenance or cleaning, something for one of our training classes, design or distribution of a flyer, or help with on-street training of new drivers. The exchange depends on what we need at the time and what the driver's particular talents are.

We try to come up with some sort of exchange because it keeps things fair for the other drivers and reinforces the value of the pedicab. Most importantly, exchange is win-win; it preserves the dignity of the relationship between us and the driver. No one comes away feeling beholden to the other, like they were taken advantage of, or like they're owed something.

However, if a driver doesn't hold up his end of the deal, we're forced to take other action, but we do our best to avoid this.

"No gifts." -- Lance Armstrong

The Rumor Mill: #4 Call the cops!

Rumor #4: We call the cops on other pedicab drivers.

This kind of goes with the sneaky basta'ds rumor, but I wanted to address it separately.

Whenever possible, we'd rather work through problems directly than involve the police or city. We try to maintain good relationships with the city and police, but prefer self-regulation and handling problems within the pedicab community.

We watch for news regarding pedicabs around the world. It appears that whenever something happens in another city like New York, Orlando, San Diego, or London, the authorities in Denver start looking more closely at pedicab activities here. I suspect that same reaction may be felt in other cities.

It's my job to think ahead, to ask, "how could this go wrong; what problems could this create?" We try to be proactive and take preventive measures "just in case." That's why we keep a copy of our business license and insurance in every pedicab and posted in the bike storage area. That's why we tell our drivers to have their pedal cab license with them whenever they're out. That's why we want our drivers to call in so we know who's on the street.

As the largest pedicab operation in Denver, we're the first to get called whenever there are problems anywhere downtown. People assume that whatever the problem is, we'll take care of it. We also make it easy to find our contact information -- on the web, in the phone book, and through associations.

Let me say this for the record: Although at times we may have considered it, we haven't called the police to report any driver.

However, if a driver is being reckless, driving drunk, or otherwise seriously endangering others, and talking to him directly doesn't work (F U man!), we may have no other choice but to call the police.

A perfect melding of function with affordable luxury

On Yer Bike: February, 20, 2007

I'm always haranguing readers to try the latest cycle fads around Oxford. Be it cyclo-cross, Bike Quest, bike polo . . . you name it, I've been and had a look, but have I actually got my bum on the saddle? No, idly not. So, in a fit of enthusiasm last week, I booked an Oxon Cart to take me and my fiancée from Divinity Road to Jericho.

The ride cost £15, which included a red rose stem for each pair of Valentine's passengers. Georgia accepted ours and I didn't demur, though I don't know what would have happened in the event of two Valentines demanding one. I suspect they wouldn't have wanted to rock the cart. The verdict? Fantastic! A perfect melding of function with affordable luxury. An Oxford must-do. I've travelled widely in Asia, where pedicabs are a usual way from A to B.

In this cold, congested country, pedicabs take on an altogether more exotic, magical allure. Until they become more widely used and seen, passengers can expect bemused glances from pedestrians and jealous waves from kids stuck in traffic-jammed cars. As we cruised along Cowley Road at less than 20 mph, cars and buses either held back or gave us a pleasantly wide berth.

Our driver gave us a blanket to keep the evening air from our legs, and I was glad as otherwise, after 15 minutes' sitting pretty in a pedicab, we'd have been hypothermic. Halfway over Magdalen Bridge, the cycle lane took us past dozens of buses to the front of the roadworks. Cyclists loved being around the cart, while bus passengers looked on helplessly.

The pedicab followed the bike routes along Turl Street, Broad Street, Magdalen Street and St Giles, then down the Little Clarendon Street contraflow to deposit us safely, soundly and feeling suitably romantic, outside Bangers and Mash in Walton Street. The ride was comfy, interesting (drivers are either students or bikey locals), fun, quick and left us feeling more pampered than anything else.

The Rumor Mill: #3 Sneaky Basta'ds

Rumor #3: We're "sneaky basta'ds."

I've been called a lot of things in my life, but sneaky basta'd was a new one. And why are we sneaky? Maybe because we don't feel compelled to put everything we know on display for the rumor mongers to spread around. Maybe because we try to keep tabs on customer experience.

Why others in our little community think we should share all of our information with them or ask for their opinion on every decision we make is beyond me. That idea is so far out, it's ridiculous.

I mean, really, do you think Larry Page and Sergey Brin asked permission from Yahoo and Alta Vista before launching Google? If they're sneaky basta'ds, we're in good company.

We do get advice and input from mentors and other people we respect. When we were developing the initial guidelines for the business, we sat down with 3 of our senior drivers to discuss our policies and procedures. They were consulted every step of the way.

Even now, when critical issues come up, we talk with our core of senior drivers. No, we don't put every decision out on the pedicab wire and send up smoke signals to make sure everyone agrees with us -- they won't. This is a business, not a collective. Sorry.

One thing's for sure, we're so sneaky that we'll actually tell you the truth. If it's privileged information, we'll say so. If it's none of your business, we'll tell you that too. But you won't have to guess which version of the story to believe. We won't schmooze you and tell you whatever we think you want to hear. Like it or not, you'll get a straight answer from us, plain and simple.

Some people object to our use of mystery shoppers: a common sneaky technique for evaluating customer service and perception. People take a pedicab ride then report back to us about their experience. It's that simple. If you're not being reckless or driving drunk, not over-charging or being rude, you really have nothing to worry about.

We are both involved in networking and community activities. Greg's been a part of the bicycle community in Colorado for years. Consequently, we know people. And some of the people we know give us a heads-up when something's going on or about to happen. Yes, we're so sneaky we actually talk to people outside of pedicabs.

We also interact with pedicab operations in other cities. We can usually find out what's up with a couple of phone calls. We find useful news, comments and advice on other forums and blogs. The benefits of involvement in the larger pedicab community outside of Denver.

If treating a pedicab business like a real business makes us sneaky basta'ds, so be it. I can live with that. I'm more interested in building a professional pedicab industry.

Just FYI... I prefer freak to weirdo and geek to nerd. If you're going to call me a bitch, just go ahead and spit it out. Don't be sneaky by calling me a witch because, as far as I'm concerned, that's a term of endearment.

Denver Post: The pedals and the mettle

The pedals and the mettle

By The Denver Post Staff Denver Post

Article Last Updated:02/14/2007 09:11:25 PM MST

Even if she doesn't advance in "American Idol" competition, Tami Gosnell gets style points for riding the concept of the pedicab into the pop culture mainstream. Here are few more key points to ponder about the human-powered urban conveyance: Pedicab. Pedalers at Denver-based Mile-High Pedicabs insist - emphatically - that no matter what you think you heard on TV, it's "pedicab" not "petty cab" or "peti cab." You can also call the three-wheeled, 21-speed vehicles "bike taxis." Pricing. As a rule of thumb, drivers charge about $2 per city block. But Mile-High manager Greg Duran says most drivers offer a ride for free and hope for a big tip. Which explains why Gosnell, one of the strongest riders in Duran's fleet of 70 drivers, was out in the freezing cold Christmas Eve shuttling Broncos fans between the stadium and their parking lots. Ka-ching! Riders. Pedicab riders are typically freelancers, leasing their bikes from the cab barn, although there are a few indie operators, who own their own bike rickshaws. Duran says his crew includes Ph.D. candidates, engineers, musicians, college students and freelance journalists and photographers. "They're all people who want the freedom to do their other interests," he says. "They're filling in until they can make it." Where. It's harder to find a pedicab during the winter, but watch for them weekends in LoDo and the 16th Street Mall, around the Pepsi Center when there's an event, and along the Broadway club zone. Will we see Gosnell out next weekend? No one's saying.

The Rumor Mill: #2 The coupon book

Rumor #2: We hated the coupon book.

Last year, that other pedicab company in Denver put together a little book with coupons for free drinks and/or no cover charge at clubs and restaurants downtown. It was very nicely produced, although there were things I might have done differently.

The rival operator bragged that his coupon book was going to "be the end of Mile High" and "put Mile High out of business." As you might expect, the rumor that went around was that we hated that coupon book, probably because we were so threatened by it.

Here's the truth of it all: The coupon book was nicely produced, probably more high-end than it needed to be (but better it be too nice than something cheap and cheesy). It was something we didn't have time to do ourselves, so we could appreciate the time it took to put it together - persuading advertisers, designing, printing. From my marketing experience, we knew that production costs could get out of hand and a little book could easily become a money pit for the other owner if he wasn't careful. (Which is apparently what happened, or so we've heard.)

Our lease states that drivers aren't allowed to pass out marketing or advertising materials without permission, so the drivers asked us about it. They told us that they had to buy each coupon book for $1.00. We had no opposition to them passing them out because they didn't conflict with any of our advertisers, so if it was something they wanted to do, fine.

We did have some minor concerns - none of them threatening. There was a pedicab owner in another city who took money for advertising, then left town. We wanted to make sure that if anything like that happened here we had a plan for how we might handle angry advertisers. We were also concerned that the value of pedicab advertising could be dimished by ridiculously low rates. Also, we were concerned that the people living and working downtown might get upset because there were coupon books littering the streets.

It was interesting to hear the feedback from our drivers. Some liked it, some didn't. For shy or less confident drivers, the coupon book was a convenient way to start up a conversation and get people in the cab. Some drivers used them as an enticement to take a pedicab ride while others used them more as a reward. More experienced drivers tended not to pass them out at all.

Bottom line: if it's legitimate and ethical, if it doesn't conflict with our advertisers, and it helps get drivers more rides, we're all for it -- especially if it doesn't cost us anything.

Now here's your chance to talk back again. Don't pass it up. Tell us what you think.

Denver Post: Tami's word is no "Idol" promise

Tami's word is no "Idol" promise

By The Denver Post Staff Denver Post

Article Last Updated:02/14/2007 09:12:29 PM MST

Singer Tami Gosnell made a promise to haul "American Idol" judges Paula Abdul, Simon Cowell and Randy Jackson across Denver in her pedicab. We think she's good for it. After all, she refused to breathe a word about whether she's one of 24 contestants who made the second cut on this season's "Idol," just because she promised she wouldn't. Gosnell, 29, who lives in Lafayette, tried out for "American Idol" in Memphis, Tenn. All three judges - including incorrigible Simon - loved her so she was sent to Hollywood with 169 others. By now you probably already know whether or not she advanced. But Style printed Wednesday morning, before the results were announced, and like we said, she refused to tell. But here are a few things she did tell. - Colleen O'Connor Why Memphis? My little brother was trying out, and my mom was driving him there. I don't think I would have gone if my little brother and mom didn't go. "Whipping Post," by the Allman Brothers Band, was an interesting audition choice. It ... shows off my voice and my style at the same time. I get compared to Janis (Joplin) a lot, and I didn't want to come out and do a Janis song and get totally pigeonholed. What are your dreams for the future? I just want to play music as long as I can. I've always wanted to get to a larger audience. Also I'm really into self-sustainability. I want to get ... some land. I want to build a completely sustainable home with solar, water catch and wind. Build it yourself? I've been a plumber since 1997 ... I've built (the plumbing) in a lot of houses in Beaver Creek and Vail. What's your philosophy of dealing with success? I don't know. I've not put it into much use yet. Just always stay humble. Being humble is the best attribute throughout life, especially when you're a performer. What's your philosophy of failure? No matter what happens, I'm already successful. My idea of success is being happy. I've traveled and played music with so many different people in Colorado, big acts and small acts that no on ever heard of. I have fun and love life. That's success, in my mind. Does the pedicab thing help you on the music scene? If I'm not playing, I do pedicab, and it's really good money on weekends. The bar rush is really fun, a lot of people who really want to have a lot of fun. It's great tips, and a great workout. I think I lost 2 pounds during one shift when I rode eight hours. That's a lot of calories, man.

The Rumor Mill: Anti-competition

There's been some upheaval amongst pedicab companies in Denver recently. Actually, it's been going on for more than a year now. Let me briefly give you a little of the backstory, from my perspective.

Toward the end of 2005, we took over management of Mile High Pedicabs. One of the first things I noticed, even before the transition took place, was the incredible rumor mill. I had to wonder when drivers had so much time to chit-chat, if they were busy riding. The funniest thing is that every driver would say, "I don't participate in all that," or "I don't talk, I just listen." But someone was talking -- a whole bunch of someones. And of course, some were much more talkative than others.

We elected to take the high road, stick to our plans, and just focus on building the business. When someone would ask us directly about one thing or another, we'd discuss with them openly and honestly what our position was and why. We figured we had enough on our hands without worrying about the latest gossip. But only our own loyal drivers bothered to talk to us; none of the other drivers or operators. They preferred to believe the gossip than get a straight answer directly from us.

Last night we met with a driver who had been riding for another company, and admits to talking a lot of shit about us over the last year, but now wanted to come back and ride for us again. That other company was going under for the last time and he wouldn't have a cab to ride, so he figured he'd tuck his tail between his legs and see if we would take him back.

During the conversation, some of the old rumors reared their ugly heads, so I've decided to publicly state our position now. I'm fed up! There have been too many rumors to attack all in one post, so I'll approach them one-by-one over the next few days.

Rumor #1: We are anti-competition. This rumor is so untrue it's almost funny. You'd think we were Bill Gates and Leona Helmsley. With our couple dozen pedicabs, we're poised to take over the world - like Pinky and the Brain!

The truth is, we're not afraid of competition at all. In fact, I think healthy competition in the marketplace is a good thing. It keeps businesses from stagnating, keeps them striving to improve. And in an emerging industry like pedicabs, the more responsible pedicab operations there are in cities around the world, the better. (Notice, I said "responsible".)

As we've said all along, we only expect everyone to play by the same rules. A lot of time and money is spent to make sure we have a business license, insurance, pay sales tax, and train our drivers. All our drivers have a Colorado driver's license, pass a background check and get a pedal cab license. All of this is required by the City and County of Denver.

Apparently, some think these regulations should only apply to Mile High while everyone else who wants to drive a pedicab gets a free pass. For some reason, which I have yet to understand, there are some people who think they are "special" and deserve to be treated differently (is that "short-bus special" or "church lady special"?). They think they shouldn't have to jump through all the same hoops we do; they should be able to just get out on the streets of Denver and ride - whatever, whenever, however they want, with no restrictions.

Sorry folks. We disagree. The rules apply to everyone. Play by the rules and we'll welcome you into the Denver pedicab community.

The previous managers bought a couple of pedicabs, got a business license and insurance and opened their own small operation. No problem. A group of Mile High drivers who didn't like some of the new restrictions and expectations we put in place decided not to continue riding for us. That was fine too. In response, one of the drivers purchased 4 pedicabs, went into business, and brought those unhappy souls into his stable of drivers. Before he decided to buy his own, we talked with him and gave him several options to lease cabs from us (and in looking back, they were all killer deals in my opinion).

At the end of '06, when one of our drivers decided to break away and buy his own pedicabs, we took him to lunch and talked about his plans. We even let him store his cabs with ours until he found his own space. He understood that regulation was a good thing and we expected him to abide by them, which he did. We still talk with him on a regular basis and wouldn't hesitate to include his drivers in group rides and such.

These examples don't sound like "anti-competition" to me.

As always, your comments and feedback are welcome. Unless you're abusive or just plain nasty, I promise not to censor your comments. So here's your chance. Speak now or forever hold your peace.

Norwich Evening News: Are pedal cabs the way forward?

People could get the chance to travel around Norwich on a modern-day version of the rickshaw if the eco-friendly way of getting around is brought to the city's streets.

Officers at Norwich City Council are working on a feasibility study which could see the development of a pedicab system - pedal-powered three or four wheeled cycles used to ferry passengers about.

The idea was first mooted three years ago when Norwich City Council was given a European cash boost through the Liveable City project and was hailed by tourism bosses as a way to boost the city centre.

But, since then, the idea, part of the Spatial Metro programme being undertaken by the city council and CRed - the carbon reduction campaign, has fallen off the agenda.

However, it has now emerged that officers at City Hall are drawing up a report into the possibility of having pedicabs on the city's streets, although the Labour leader Steve Morphew stressed the idea was at a very early stage.

He said: “If we were to do it, we would have to have routes which would make it viable and, until we get a report, we will not know whether it is possible.”

Visitors to London's West End can hardly miss the pedicabs there, and the ones running in Edinburgh have proved highly popular.

Last summer, we revealed how Nigel Woodhouse, 39, was hoping to start a pedicab service in the city.

Mr Woodhouse, from Long Stratton, was inspired after seeing the green machines on the road in Amsterdam.

The father-of-four had hoped to have 30 of the vehicles in Norwich within a year and was scouring the city's gyms to find superfit drivers - but so far his dream has not become a reality.

Members of the public got the chance to see what pedicabs are all about last year when they were demonstrated at The Forum as part of a display on transport with low carbon emissions.

Rupert Read, Green party transport spokesman on the city council took a ride in a pedicab when they were demonstrated during Norwich's Science Week last autumn.

He said: “I hope very much they do come in because based on my experience it is an extremely attractive way to get around Norwich and I am sure it would be welcomed by tourists.”

---

First thing I thought when I read this article was how nice it would be to have city support and maybe get some city funding.

Then I wondered why the guy was "scouring the city's gyms to find superfit drivers".

If someone can afford to be at a gym to get "superfit," why would they want to ride a pedicab? Why wouldn't they just keep working out at the gym? I mean, the guy needs to look at what motivates someone to become a pedicab driver in the first place. Maybe he needs to look somewhere else.

Many of our drivers weren't superfit when they started, but over time got their pedicab legs under them. What they really needed was persistance and the ability to overcome "no" without taking it personally. They needed to be able to interact with people on the street and at least appear to be having a good time. They either have those qualities or they don't. Strength and endurance will come with time, but only if they're motivated to get out there and ride.

So what do you think are the qualities to look for in a new pedicab driver? And what qualities keep someone driving a pedicab week after week, month after month?

Cayman Net News: Rickshaw cab business starts

Brian Barnes, owner of Wheels PediCab, a brand new rickshaw cab business operating in the Cayman Islands, pictured with passengers from the Cayman Islands Cystic Fibrosis Trust fundraising evening.

The Cayman Islands now have their own new rickshaw cab business, called Wheels PediCab Service.

“Environmentally friendly, well-equipped state-of-the-art rickshaw bicycles are a new way of getting around Seven Mile Beach and George Town,” said owner and operator Brian Barnes.

“I have no set route, and go wherever the passenger wants to go. They are well-equipped with signals, break lights, headlights, even seatbelts.”

Mr Barnes thought of the idea two years ago, and made his first application in September 2005 to import the rickshaw bicycles.

“The first two are here, and there are more on the way,” he said.

They can also be used for special events, such as weddings, private parties, parades, etc and they are also available for advertising and branding,” he added.

Mr Barnes also said businesses can advertise on the cabs, by ‘branding’ them with companies’ or products’ logos.

“It’s something new to Cayman and people use them right now in big cities such as Denver, New York, Florida, Las Vegas and Victoria in British Columbia, which is where I first fell in love with them and rode them to earn spare money, when I was going to school there,” said Mr Barnes.

People will be able to locate the cabs in and around the Seven Mile Beach and George Town locations.

For contact information people can phone 947-2222 or visit the company’s website at www.CaymanPediCab.com.

Thanks Cayman Net News

On macho posturing and fighting for no reason.

Good Day drivers and enthusiasts,

I come home last night tired. My legs and back ache, my head buzzing with the images of macho posturing whether it be a car tricked out with stupid after market exhaust and nitrous or some macho, drunk ape posturing with his buddies.

Last weekend, I witnessed an assault. Who knew what warranted the assault, but it was still a crime, nevertheless.

Throughout the last several years, I have seen far too many interactions with violence involved. It actually kinda makes me want to quit. Whether it be New Years Eve, where I saw a group of what looked like gang members attack (surround and prey on) just another drunk idiot being an idiot. They kicked, knocked over, and knocked what little sense he had in him, out of him. I have seen people completely cold-cocked for walking away. This past weekend, I saw a guy walk out a door, and knocked from his feet, surrounded and kicked repeatedly. This happens, people.

As I said before, it really makes me upset when I see this happen. The bar is the supplier of our magic tonics and mind numbing devices, and we are the witnesses, and sometimes saviors for those people who are either in the wrong place at the wrong time, or deserve to be put in their place. But, I contend that no matter the circumstance (times of war excluded, in a self-preservative sense), I would still never wish on anyone what I have seen. True, I was at a concert the other night and some drunk idiot kept pushing his way to the front regardless of who was in his way. I stood stoic and firm and was awaiting his antics. I envisioned myself grabbing the guy by the throat and putting him in his place. I didn't, and in fact heard his stupid dork friend say something to the effect of "Oh, all of these people just don't know how to drink and have fun." Last time I checked the revenues at this venue were largely ticket sales and booze. I shouldn't tell you of all of the puffing of the herb we encountered, either, moi excluded. But n'er everyone was sober and didn't know how to have a good time. Ass.

I have had plenty of pedicab encounters with street violence and mob mentality. Heck, I hate to say it, but I have been blocks away from guns being pulled. It happens. Denver Police are actually somewhat on top of it, but you can't cover all areas at once. It is much like putting out fires, and when one stops, another is extingushed.

I won't scare you with stories, but liquid courage does this: frightens the intelligent out of having a good time, and encourages the arrogant and cocky to be even more out of control. What do you do about it?

The first is to avoid trouble areas. In my experience, the second I see scuffles, I move directly away from the trouble. No matter how bad I want to play referree and either stop the fight, tell the parties to go home, or tell them to go suit up and meet on the field or gladiator ring of battle, I move away from the trouble. There will always be people who are mean drunks, and out of hand. It would take an extreme situation for me to intrude on their posturing displays. I call them that because that is really all they are- primitive, primordial apes, who seem to think that they own their streets and their pride is the most important thing. FYI, apes, if you can understand me, it isn't.

Second, if someone is really getting pounded on, find some kind of vehicle with flashing lights and be a calm, collected informant. I have said "Officer (address them like this, they deserve that much), there is a nasty fight down the street and you might want to go down there." There, fire starting to be extighuished.

Third, try not to be a witness, in the true sense. It will waste your time unless you have license plates, full descriptions, or ways of direction. Don't be a hero, it will only lose you money and burn you out to the point of fear of the streets. Don't let that happen.

Fourth, if the incident was handled by either mobs of partiers or the police, pick out a point person to ask if everything was handled. Kindly ask the police if they intervened and if there is anything you can do. Chances are, there will be nothing, but good will never hurts anyone.

Fifth, chalk it up for experience and walk away. Just remember, most of these guys (I have seen some nasty girl fights too) are drunk.

This brings me to an additonal point: The women are the main motivation for this. It isn't their fault, but their short skirts, tight jeans, and their scantily clad ways can be a cause. At least it is for the guys. I wonder why men do what they do (catcall, fight), and I wonder if any of these people have mothers, fathers, and grandparents to drop the ball of common sense on them, or at least not let some out of the house wearing what they do. Ick.

The truth is that the partying crowd will always be out of hand. Mob mentality is and always has been sickening, like that. The French Revolution, the Boston Massacre, and any old Sunday football game might give some something to live for, but deep down, is as visceral and hateful, and tribal, I might add, as it comes. My only piece of advice, stay sober and alert- someone may want a ride away from the scuffling.

Peas.

Pedicab promo in NYC

Waddaya think?

Interrogatory

Good Day Pedicab Drivers,

It is Friday, yet another, and I gear up for another Friday night on the streets of Denver. I have been graciously invited to participate in the Mile High Pedicab Blog, which I am actually pretty excited about.

What shall we talk about this week? Time permitting, lets talk about our fair weather. No, I am not talking about our weather in Denver. God knows it has not been ideal pedicab weather, but somehow, cabs are still out. This is a good thing.

I recall last fall an uprising of sorts, which was short lived and shortly thought out. It was your standard, obnoxious group of rantings, aimed at the big company in town. You can see some back and forth commentary at the Mile High pedicab Blog at www.milehighpedicabs.com.

Nevertheless, I stand and wonder what the deal is with these companies and riders that are out there, riding without insurance, without regard to rules, or any sound practices at all. I suppose they are the individuals who are the emo-punk-neo age bike gurus, who, seem to hate anyone with authority. I get very tired of the pseudo-community, where everyone is invited to the party. I guess they figure that if they provide beer for their little friends, they figure that they may buy loyalty. This might be a little far fetched, since none of them have any money, and gush about the fact of how badass they are in riding their bikes around the streets.

Lo and behold, be aware of the fact that the second that the weather decides to shape up, these rivals will show up with their bandanas around their wrists, studded belts in hand, not withstanding their Mao-Tse-Dong hats, and be out to prove how badass they are on their funky fixed gear bikes. I would love to have a fixed gear bike, but the minimalist approach is a bit much.

In fact, I do begin to question their sincerity, and even their integrity in taking rides, just to make a quick buck. There are several companies out there that play by the rules and participate in an orderly business downtown, where there is enough wealth downtown, and little need for a cute little community.

This machination of this little community, is actually contributing to numerous complaints from the constabulary and the like, about "those renegade pedicab drivers." I only ask, as a driver, that if we all play by some generally accepted rules and not let our egos and pedicab community alliances get out of whack, we can continue to grow this business to a true business, where we don't pollute, and become the preferred way of transport in metro areas, or at least in downtown areas.

I think that is the bottom line, here. Guys that show up with cabs and pedals in hand, and say "I am just riding a bike," are included in this. By the way, you can't ride on our pedestrian mall, except on Sundays. Get your license, figure out your insurance, quit shirking responsibility, pony up, and do the right thing. If you get into an accident, at least you won't be buried by legal bills, ruin the business for everyone else, and selfishly take everyone down with you in your blaze if indy-emo glory. Some food for thought.

I think this has been heard, and truly, it seems that they actually have insurance, which is fair. Glad to see we have an understanding.

Spring is around the corner, and that being said, only the strong survive the winter. The pine beetles come out of the trees, the indy-emo bike geeks come out of the...I wouldn't know. Anywho, This recurring issue of licensing will happen again, and please, do the right thing.

This winter has been a lesser riding winter for me, but I can recall several winters ago getting cold, suiting up for a long night, and coming away with hard earned money. One thing I will always love about the business is the potential to make money and actually market yourself and prove you are in awesome shape and can work hard. Many have this mentality, and so, I salute you. Dude!

I may also say that the more you sit, the more you will see me ride by you with rides. Sometimes I do sit. But, this is for one of two reasons: I am needing a break or I just feel like sitting. But, don't let me dissuade you from sitting. It is much like fishing. But, as a dear friend and roommate said, "Flyfishing from a boat is hella-better than standing and wading around."

So, you sit. Then you get cold. Then you give me evil looks for blowing by you with beautiful girls in my cab, who happen to be grabbing my backside and shouting my name. Talk about motivation.

Yes, this is work. I believe that people call the chit-chat "water cooler talk". This is only a way of showing the rest of the world how good of a screw off you are. Cheers to that! I have a job I don't have to work for. Yippee! Just do us a favor, quit congregating 5 cabs at a time. It gets in the way of people conducting business. If not, it at least provides me with a medium to spray the icy slush or snow dust at your handmade signs. Hey! I think I am getting a ride...and it seems to be two beautiful women. Gotta go!

A Decent Proposal

Hello everyone.

Allow me to introduce myself. My name/handle is MAF The Stache and I will be an occasional contributor to the Pedicab Blog. I did go by the name, The Stache because a certain pedicab driver (who shall remain nameless to protect his guilt) refers to me as The Stache. (And while I no longer have the same name, I still have my mustache.)

Before I go any further I wanted to thank the other Pedicab bloggers for inviting me to participate.


A Decent Proposal

I thought that I'd share with you my first experience riding on Valentine's Day. But first let me go back to the previous day (the 13th) when I spoke to a very nice gentleman who was interested in meeting me in front of the main office of the police department downtown where his girlfriend works.

As it turns out, the gentleman in question and his girlfriend had the pleasure of riding on a pedicab about five months earlier when they were on their first date. Now, five months later the man wanted to surprise his girlfriend on Valentine's Day with another pedicab ride and to ask her to marry him. After getting the particulars, of where (police department) and when (3:20 pm) to meet him the next day. So with the particulars written down, I waited to make my appointed round.

So, there I was, 3:10 in the afternoon, sitting on my pedicab and I started to wonder if I was waiting at the right place. A tall man approached from the south, calling out to me, "You must be The Stache. MAF." I replied that I was.

The tall gentleman climbed into the pedicab and directed me to the parking lot behind the police station and began telling me of his plan, including the route that I was to pedal that afternoon. His girlfriend was to get off work at 3:30 pm, he was going to meet her and make some small talk. After several minutes of talking with her he was to to signal to me and I would pull up and they were to climb into the cab and the journey would begin. I nodded in agreement and told him that I would wait for his signal as he walked off towards the front of the building.

It was 3:20 pm and I was getting nervous.

3:30 pm: The nice gentleman was walking back to me where I was waiting and he told me that his girlfriend was probably working later and that it would be a little while longer. I asked him how he was feeling, and he said "Really nervous." (I couldn't tell.) I reassured him (as any pedicab driver would) as he walked back to his post.

3:35 pm: The gentleman is now talking on his cell phone, and I am having my doubts. I kept thinking "The best laid plans of mice and men." He starts walking over to me and I am wondering if his Valentine's Day suprise was turning into his Valentine's Day nightmare. Despite his being nervous, he said that things weren't going according to the plan. He asked my if I had another engagement to which I replied "No." (I was in this for the long haul. I was going to see the tall gentleman crash and burn or soar with eagles.

3:40 pm: The tall gentleman is once again talking on his cell phone and I start worrying that things aren't going well. Perhaps I was showing my worry as he waved in my direction.

3:45 pm: The tall gentleman is talking with a very petite woman. I start getting nervous, going over the route that I am to take. And then he signaled me (not the raised hand I was expecting but what the hell) to pick them up. He introduced me to his girlfriend, who shook my hand and proceeded to jump into the pedicab and announced, "After today, I really could use a ride back to the car."

Ah, she was completely unaware of what was to take place over the next 15-20 minutes. I started riding as the two sat together talking to each other. (I was definately hard of hearing that afternoon.) The tall gentleman handed her a Valentine's Day card as I rode through the courthouse park, passing squirrels who interrupted their afternoon meals to watch us pass.

We exited the park and followed the planned route which included the spot where they boarded the pedicab for the first time some five months earlier. We winded our way through the downtown as we approached the cafe where they dined on that first date, after their first pedicab ride.

I stopped the cab, and without saying a word I dismounted the pedicab and walked away to allow them some privacy. (I mean really would you want the pedicab rider sitting right there during your proposal of marriage? I don't think so.)

I must admit it was rather embarrassing standing around, waiting for the recently engaged couple to invite me back to continue the ride. I did enjoy watching the people walking downtown as they stared at the couple sharing a warm embrace in the back of my pedicab.

After she wiped away her tears of happiness I congratulated the very happy couple. They were both very happy. The tall gentleman asked if I would take several photographs to mark this momentous occasion. After the photo session which included one of her showing off her rock (It was huge!) I hopped on the pedicab to continue the last stage of the afternoon together.

The route backtracked the original route taken on this day, (and on their first date) back to where the trip began. Well back to the parking lot where her car was parked. After exiting the pedicab I congratulated the happy couple once more. They thanked me for a wonderful afternoon, and I them.

I love riding my pedicab!


UPDATE:
I just learned that my other blogger identity has overtaken "The Stache" identity. And to think I was going for a little anonymity in my posts here at the Pedicab Blog...

Pedicabs in Texas

If you're interested in the pedicab action in Austin, TX check out the blog/website for Capital Pedicab. I noticed that drivers have to take a pedicab chauffeur license test in addition to getting a certified criminal history.

Wonder what's on the test.

Any guesses????

Disappointment on American Idol

I guess the spoiler sites were right this time. Pedicab driver Tami Gosnell didn't make it to the final 24 on American Idol -- and not because she wasn't good enough, but more because she didn't fit the stereotype. That's my opinion anyway, and I'm happy to own it.

For whatever reason, the judges selected a group of women like all those who came before. We don't really know why since they didn't show Tami's performances in Hollywood. But we can assume that she didn't fit the cookie-cutter mold that AI seems to like. I kept trying to picture her in one of those cheesy car commercials or sappy group numbers, and I just couldn't see it. Tami's just too good, too original for that.

Someone wrote that she just wasn't "vanilla" enough. I'd have to agree. Tami's more like a banana split with lots of fruit, nuts and whipped cream. (Mmmmm... I'm making myself hungry!)

I wonder if the likes of Sheryl Crow, Carole King, Alanis Morissette, India.Arie or Corinne Bailey Rae would have made it through. Tami, I think you're in pretty good company.

I have to say how impressed I am by her grace and style through all of this. Among all the wonderful things written online, there were some pretty nasty comments too. Tami never seemed to let it get to her, at least not that I saw or heard. She kept smiling and singing, even when she already knew the outcome but had to keep the rest of us in the dark. That took real strength and courage.

From what I read on the web, there are a lot of people who were really impressed by Tami and are bummed that she didn't move on. I'm sure the exposure will be good for her, and we appreciate her support and promotion of pedicabbing.

No matter what happens now, Greg and I are so proud to know Tami. She has real talent - talent that can't be manufactured. Just check out the tunes available on her web site or her MySpace profile. Better yet, just buy her CD.

Tami, we luv ya and we're proud of ya!

Tami's MySpace Profile
Tami's Web Site
Buy the CD

Okay. You've had enough time off. Now get back on your pedicab and ride girl!

Pedicab Drivers Rally Against Bill That Could Cost Them Their Jobs

NY1 News
Manhattan - February 13, 2007

Some city Pedicab drivers rallied against a measure that they say could put them out of a job.

There are around 500 of the bicycle-style cabs around the city. But drivers say two-thirds of them could wind up out of business if the City Council passes new regulations requiring drivers to be licensed and insured. Certain kinds of cabs would be banned altogether.

Mayor Michael Bloomberg has said there must be a limit on the number of Pedicabs for safety reasons, but drivers and environmental activists disagree.

"There are way more limousines then there are Pedicabs, but there isn't a cap,” said Pedicab driver Mega Martinez. “They encourage you to go out and buy a limo, make that your business. I'm trying to make a business for myself that is good for the environment, good for people, people enjoy riding on our cabs. I love my job. If they put a cap, many of us are going to lose our jobs.”

"They are a great form of non polluting transportation,” said Bill DiPaola of Times Up New York. “The tourists love them. The people who use them, it brings a smile to their face and it really improves the city."

The proposed legislation would also make the cabs follow traffic rules and standardize fares.

Council Member Leroy Comrie, who sponsored the bill, says he's willing to work with drivers to find a compromise.

We're in favor of regulation, but we want a good bill

On February 28, the City Council will vote on new regulations for pedicabs in New York City. The proposed regulations include a cap on the number of pedicabs allowed (from 500 down to 300) and a ban on electric assist (which would put BicyTaxi out).

Groups like taxi cab drivers and some hotels would like to ban pedicabs, or at least keep them out of their "territory", but pedicab advocates say the regulations could hurt an industry that is helping the environment.

"To reduce the number of pedicabs while making statements about protecting the environment is just hypocritical," said Paul Steely White, executive director of Transportation Alternatives. "Most cities are capping greenhouses emissions and encouraging other modes of transportation. With these restrictions on pedicabs, New York is doing the opposite."

We have regulation here in Denver. Personally, I agree with NYCPOA lobbyist Chad Marlow. "We’re in favor of regulation. From a pedicab’s point of view, we have owners and drivers who are responsible and others who are not. We want [the irresponsible ones] off the road." But regulations require enforcement - either by the appropriate government agency or by the industry itself.

Sometimes it's a particular venue that forces a solution for issues of recklessness and irresponsibility. When drivers yell at pedestrians and aggressively push through crowded walkways, when they ride across landscaping and tell venue staff to "f*** off!" they put access to the venue property at risk for all pedicabs. The easier and least risky solution for the venue is to just ban pedicabs alltogether. I would rather solve the problem through self-regulation by the drivers and owners in an organized association.

Sure, pedicabs contribute to the convenience and ambience of the area. They augment parking and light rail to downtown. They offer door-to-door service from hotels to restaurants and clubs for tourists and locals alike. But make no mistake: people would still attend hockey and football games, they would still dine and dance, even if pedicabs weren't available.

With this in mind, it's important for the pedicab industry in Denver, New York, San Diego and elsewhere to be a contributing member of the community. And that means being considerate and responsible to other community members - venues, businesses, patrons, customers, employees, and other pedicab owners and drivers. If you're part of a community, you don't just look out for yourself and no one else with little if any regard for what you leave behind.

In New York, the City Council has the responsibility to consider the needs of the entire community - including the pedicabs. They have a responsibility to write good regulations that benefit everyone involved, not just attending to the wheels that squeak the loudest.

In my opinion, banning electric assist on pedicabs is ridiculous. Utilizing pedicabs with electric assist still makes environmental sense since the energy output is far less then the microwave I use to reheat my morning coffee; even less than my blowdryer. And setting a cap below the number of pedicabs already in NYC without a clear plan for deciding who stays and who goes or determining an accurate count is irresponsible to the pedicab companies. From what I understand, these regulations don't address the issues of clustering and crowding (which we also experience in Denver and attempt to regulate ourselves).

Good regulation is a good thing, especially when it comes to ensuring the safety of passengers, pedestrians, and motorists. But bad regulation will be a bad thing for everyone.

Comment found on a NYC blog: "The pedicab lobby may be lower than strip club owners in terms of a positive public perception..." This is a perception I'd like to change.

I invite you to leave your comments.

amNewYork: Pedicab drivers protest proposed rules
Gothamist: Protesting City Council's Proposed Pedicab Regultions
C.I.C.L.E.: Bike cabs to rally for Midtown pedi-cure

More on the NYC pedicab rally

Chad Marlow of the Public Advocacy Group, the pedicab industry's lobbyist, sends along this press release arguing that Mayor Michael Bloomberg and Speaker Christine Quinn's proposal to put a cap on the number of pedicabs and ban electric-assist technology harms the industry and compromises safety while, really, helping no one in particular. The NYCPOA has offered many options to try to satisfy critics, but to no avail. So what's ahead for New York's pedicabs and how might it affect the industry worldwide?

New York, New York - February 13, 2007: In an event organized by the New York City Pedicab Owners Association (NYCPOA), concerned pedicab owners, drivers and their supporters will meet on the steps of City Hall at noon to lift the veil off ongoing negotiations to reconcile the Mayor's and City Council's pedicab regulation bills. In particular, the noontime event will highlight how two imprudent "political deals" will needlessly stagnate the environmentally friendly pedicab industry, prevent pedicabs from utilizing the best available safety equipment and exclude the industry's most experienced drivers.

The first "political deal" involves severely restricting the number of pedicabs in operation - a decision whose genesis lies with theater and hotel complaints that groups of pedicabs were blocking traffic in front of their businesses. According to George Bliss, NYCPOA's President, "the pedicab industry wants to be a welcome member of the midtown business community. As such, the theaters' and hotels' concerns became our concerns and we sought to address them through the Council legislation."

But despite proposing numerous solutions, none were accepted. As NYCPOA's lobbyist Chad Marlow of The Public Advocacy Group LLC explained, "first we sought the solution the theaters, hotels and pedicabs all wanted: creating a series of stands where pedicabs could unobtrusively wait for their customers, but that solution was flatly rejected by the DOT. We then proposed a 'Rule of Five' that would have prohibited more than five pedicabs from grouping together while seeking passengers. The Community Board covering the Times Square-Theater District favored that proposal, but the Speaker's office turned it down. We even begrudgingly offered to limit the number of pedicabs in a Times Square zone, but the Mayor said no. We've had no problem coming up with on-target solutions, we just cannot find anyone willing to enact them."

Instead, the Mayor and Speaker are preparing to place a cap on the number of pedicabs. The number being considered, which is in the low 300s, would take 40% of all currently operating pedicabs off the streets. This would stagnate the pedicab industry, drive numerous owners and drivers out of work and create an artificial shortage of pedicabs that cannot meet demand, all while failing to address the theaters' and hotels' concerns.

The second "political deal" reached between the Mayor and Speaker would, without any reasonable justification, ban all pedal-assisted, electric-assist pedicabs. The pedal-assisted, electric-assist power sought by the NYCPOA among others has two elements. First, pedicabs would be allowed to supplement their human power with no more than 750 watts of electric power, which is half the power an average electric lawn mower uses. Second, to ensure electric-assist pedicabs are always operated as bicycles, sensors would prevent electric-assist power from being used unless the pedicab is also being pedaled.

Electric-assist is important because it improves safety. As Amir Chizic, owner of BicyTaxi NYC, explained, "right now my pedicabs operate with a 250 watt motor, which allows me to place a heavy fiberglass shell on them to provide additional protection for my passengers. If the City bans electric-assist, I will just remove the motors and take off the safety shells, but is that what the City wants?" Allowing electric-assist also enables older, more experienced pedicab drivers to remain in the profession. Doug Korman, 53, who has driven a pedicab for 10 years commented that "at my age, after 6 or more hours of driving, when I am pedaling 600-plus pounds of pedicab and passengers up a hill, yes, I need a tiny bit of extra help, and that's all electric-assist provides. If the City was taking a safety-first approach to pedicab legislation, it would be doing everything it could to keep drivers like me on the road because experienced pedicab drivers are the safest pedicab drivers."

As Bliss summarized, "this City needs more than just a pedicab regulation bill. It needs a good one, and that is not what is on the table right now."

Thank you StreetsBlog.org - covering the New York City streets renaissance.

NYC Pedicab Rally set for Tuesday

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT: Chad Marlow: (212) 277-6350 [W]; (646) 279-4481 [C]

New York City Pedicab Industry, Supporters To Hold City Hall Press Conference Feb 13

New York, New York – Concerned pedicab owners, drivers and their supporters will gather for a press conference on the steps of City Hall on Tuesday, February 13th at noon. The event will focus on two presently unannounced political deals that will stagnate the pedicab industry, prevent the use of the best safety equipment and exclude its most experienced drivers.

WHO: The New York City Pedicab Owners Association, joined by pedicab drivers and supporters of the pedicab industry.

WHAT: Press conference.

WHERE: The front steps of City Hall.

WHEN: Tuesday, February 13, 2007 at noon.