Rickshaws come full circle

If imitation is the highest form of flattery, then pedicabs and rickshaws are to be commended.

In 1972, coming from the auto racing world, with no experience with bicycles, and using photos of classic Asian cycle rickshaws, Jim Tipke developed the first American pedal cab for the 1974 World Expo in Spokane, Washington. Tipke's innovations include: multiple gears using a derailleur; rear differential; transfer hub; modern dual shocks for a smoother ride; and dual hydraulic rear brakes. These were the first ever on a rickshaw. Little did he know at the time, but his genius would give birth to a new industry in the West.

Others would help to move the industry forward, imitating and building upon Tipke's original design. After all, it takes a village to raise a child, and this industry in its infancy was no exception.

After more than 35 years, the development of pedicabs, cycle rickshaws, bike taxis, or whatever you might call them, has come full circle. China is now manufacturing Western-style rickshaws for the American and European markets. They started showing up on streets and thoroughfares several months ago, mostly sold on web sites like e-Bay or through word-of-mouth.

On pedicab blogs and forums, there's been discussion regarding these imports, mostly negative opinions that Chinese products are inherently substandard. These opinions are based more on prejudice and preconceived ideas than experience, without considering that the majority of bicycles, parts and components come out of Chinese factories. I can guarantee that Western-made pedicabs are built using some part or component from China.

If I were a Western manufacturer, I'd be pretty unhappy. This is a new level of competition they haven't seen before. In their place, I'm not sure how I would react or what I might do. Maybe nothing, believing I already offer a superior product at a fair price. Let the market sort it out.

As a potential buyer, I'd be cautious, concerned with the negative chatter about a cab I haven't seen, much less ridden. I may be an early adopter, but when it comes to business, I'm more wary. I want to see it and evaluate it for myself or rely on an expert's opinion.

I'd also be ecstatic. Finally there's another option in the market. Even if it's not the option I choose, competition is good for the consumer. It challenges competitors to re-evaluate their products and service. Will they step up and rise to the challenge, or just keep doing what they've always done?

Pedicabs from China are here. It was bound to happen. Inevitable.

Big Tree Pedicab Management and Fuse Imports were invited to team up with a European import-export consultant and a large Chinese manufacturer to test, evaluate, and assess the cycle rickshaws. Based on our expertise and experience, we will recommend changes and upgrades appropriate to the Western market. We will also examine and try models for operation in niche markets and developing countries.

We've already taken possession of our first shipment of Pedal Rickshaws. We're satisfied enough with the quality that we plan to incorporate some into the Colorado Rickshaw fleet as well as making some available for sale.

Phase one of our evaluation of the rickshaws is complete. We're quite pleased with what we've seen so far. It's obvious that the company wants to produce a quality product. As with any new product line, there are issues to be resolved and improvements that can be made.

Overall, the quality is good, and at such an affordable price, they should make quite an impact on the market. These imports will open the doors for those who felt that the cost of other options was out of reach, particularly with the struggling U.S. economy.

If you'd like more information or are interested in purchasing one of these pedal rickshaws, please visit the Fuse Imports web site or contact us with any questions.

We know we might get some flack for this decision, but we're comfortable with our direction and interested in your opinion. As always, feel free to click on "comments" below.