Thika Town: Where bicycles are more popular than boda boda

Many people cannot imagine that bicycles are still being used as boda bodas in some Kenyan towns. However, in towns such as Thika, bicycles are a common means of transport.

Walking through the town and its environs, you will see bicycles parked alongside motorcycles at the boda boda stages, also waiting for customers. James Mbugua, a bicycle taxi rider, told The Nairobian that this mode of transport is even more popular than motorcycles.

According to him, this is a source of livelihood for people like him who don’t have resources to buy motorcycles. Besides, some commuters prefer bicycles due to price and safety.

“For men like me who don’t have an alternative source of income, this business enables us to earn our daily bread,” said Mbugua.

Kennedy Imbasi, a resident of Makongeni estate in Thika, concurs that indeed bicycle taxis are safer compared to motorcycles.

“Going by the frequent accidents caused by motorcycles, a lot of people prefer bicycles. This is reinforced by the belief that motorcycle operators are careless and love speeding,” said Imbasi.

He said accidents from bicycles are minimal and even when they occur, they do not cause as much damage.

Simon Mbugua, another bicycle taxi operator, said there are places bicycles can access that motorcycles cannot. “As natives, we understand the terrain and can access even narrow routes which may not be possible for motorcycles,” said Mbugua.

Mbugua said the fare depends on the distance and luggage. They charge Sh20 bob for short distances but the price can go up to Sh200 for longer distances.  

On a good day, Mbugua makes Sh400-Sh800.