A student job with a difference

A start-up bike taxi firm is helping students to avoid getting saddled with debt by recruiting them as drivers in Luxembourg City.

Go Bike Luxembourg, which launched with two bike taxis earlier this month, plans to roll out a fleet of 10 bikes over the next two years. In a short space of time, it has managed to find sponsors and clients. The only challenge remaining is to find a few more drivers.

“We need young, dynamic people who like talking to people. It's a nice job. You get paid to keep fit. Students get to keep all the money they make from fares,” explained Juliette, a co-founder of Go Bike in Luxembourg.

Weighing around 130 kilos, not including passengers, the rickshaw-style taxis can be ridden anywhere bikes are permitted. 

Battery-assisted

To assist with steep climbs, each bike is equipped with two batteries which can be switched on when needed. Because Luxembourg City is such a hilly capital, Go Bike will not go down the Côte d'Eich, to Clausen, the Grund or the airport.

However, for 5 euros, passengers can take a trip between the Coque in Kirchberg and the old town or train station and for an additional 5 euros they can get picked up from a home address in the capital.

When the weather is inclement, there are plastic flaps to protect passengers, blankets will be provided as will a small heater.

“The driver won't be cold anyway,” said Juliette. 

Sustainable transport

Go Bike Luxembourg was inspired by a trip to Lisbon, in Portugal, where bike taxis are commonly used. Juliette and business partner Ken visited a firm producing the bikes and were immediately pumped up by the idea of bringing it to Luxembourg.

“We thought it's a good idea for Luxembourg because first of all we're trying to push sustainable transport,” Juliette said, adding: “It's modern, it's green, it's ecological.”

The two entrepreneurs plan to make money by charging companies to advertise on the sides of the bikes and renting out their services for marketing campaigns. Go Bikes can also be hired for special occasions such as weddings.

But, Juliette explained, Go Bike is more than a mere business. “It's a concept because it's good for tourism. It's ecological transport but it also provides jobs for students.” 

Juliette and Ken are also making contact with care homes for the elderly where they can offer rides to people who are no longer able to ride a bike independently. The idea follows the global movement Cycling Without Age. 

Recruitment

Go Bike is seeking to build a pool of reliable bike taxi drivers. Candidates should speak English and at least one of Luxembourg's three national languages. They should be available two or three afternoons or mornings per week.

“It's a perfect job for a student or someone who wants to spend their time doing something a bit different,” said Juliette. To find out more, visit www.go-bike.lu or email info@go-bike.lu

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