Dangerous Cyclo Riding in Saigon!
2 September 2009 in Travel, Videos, Vietnam
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I took a ride on the wild side, risking life and property, when I rented a cyclo for 10 minutes. My goal was to pedal around the traffic circle in front of Ben Thanh Market, a very busy traffic hub, without getting killed or injuring others and their property. Notice how many people I pass (ZERO), and how many have to maneuver around me. Yes, I was a safety hazard.
Initially, I asked the cyclo owner to walk the circle to help direct traffic from hitting me. He didn’t want to, but ended up hanging at the back, working the brake which, I think, made me into more of a hazard.
Cyclos (rhymes with “sickhose,” not how I say it in the video) are the most worthless pieces of transportation in Vietnam. A few people actually use them to move produce and other goods, but it seems the vast majority of cyclos are for tourist entertainment only. They are difficult to pedal and steer, move at the speed of a fast walk, interrupt traffic by taking up precious space, and make tourists into easy robbery targets from faster-moving motorcycles sneaking up from behind. Slowly, but surely, the government is trying to phase out cyclos by outlawing them on certain streets.
You’re a crazy man Brook but it’s better than looking for a new job. Keep safe and enjoy the travels.
they must not have road rage over there. I would be throwing something at you.
I’m glad you mentioned that…yeah, surprisingly none of the drivers seem upset about anything. I haven’t looked into road rage, but is it a uniquely American thing? I get extremely frustrated (but not offensive or violent)when driving in any country. Maybe most Americans are too stressed. I’m sure drivers the world over get frustrated to varying degrees, but does any other country have the problems with it that we do?
All the honks you hear are from the other motorcycles and cars, but when they honk it isn’t an angry honk, the way it typically is in the US. Vietnamese traffic honks are friendly honks as if to say “Hey buddy, I’m overtaking you on the left and want to make sure you know I’m here, and maybe you can move over a couple inches to make room, thanks.”
Thanks! I’m having a great time. Some spending money, nearly unlimited freedom, nearly zero responsibility, and an adventuresome spirit add up to infinite possibilities…Hmm, maybe that should be my new tagline at the top of the page!
Brook, that looks insane. I cant believe you tried that…I never would have. You have some guts! Also, I loved how there was what looked like a cross-walk in the video. It made me laugh.
that doesn’t look as dangerous as you and forrest up in the Uintas with the trail 90′s!Sounds like your having a great time, have fun and take care.
Mike, it isn’t as dangerous. I remember doing a wheelie-gone-wrong where I ended up driving over your leg on a trail 90! Hey, stuff happens.
There are a lot of Honda 90cc motorbikes in Vietnam that look a lot like the trail 90s. If you want some power, you can find a 110cc beast without much problem.