Is a Xich lo a bicycle?

Question

Daniel asked: I have an actual Vietnamese xich lo. If unfamiliar with a xich lo, it is basically a bicycle frame that has a place for passengers to ride attached to its front. Its probably easier just to Google it. Anyway, I can’t seem to find anything governing its use on a public street. Do you all happen to know how the Florida traffic laws would apply to a xich lo?

Answer

This vehicle is similar to a pedicab, but the passengers in a pedicab are normally in the rear.

It is a human powered vehicle and can be operated on the roadway following all the laws related to bicycling..

s. 316.2065Bicycle Regulations

(1) Every person propelling a vehicle by human power has all of the rights and all of the duties applicable to the driver of any other vehicle under this chapter, except as to special regulations in this chapter, and except as to provisions of this chapter which by their nature can have no application.

It also seems to meet the statutory definition of “bicycle”.

s. 316.003Definitions

(3) Bicycle – Every vehicle propelled solely by human power …. having two tandem wheels, and including any device generally recognized as a bicycle though equipped with two front or two rear wheels. The term does not include such a vehicle with a seat height of no more than 25 inches from the ground when the seat is adjusted to its highest position or a scooter or similar device.

There are additional requirements for seating for a bicycle.

s. 316.2065Bicycle Regulations

(2) A person operating a bicycle may not ride other than upon or astride a permanent and regular seat attached thereto.

(3)(a) A bicycle may not be used to carry more persons at one time than the number for which it is designed or equipped ….

Leave a Reply