Taiwan has over 5000 rideshare stations across the heavily populated west coast – covering most towns and cities. All are run by YouBike, a subsidiary of Giant.
We decided it would be fun – and a great way to raise money for charities – to ride between the two most extreme stations. From north to south, we will cover 520km.
The YouBike system is fantastic and all bikes can be ridden anywhere as long as there is a station to park them – though there is a penalty fee (about 20 USD) if you go too far to cover the cost of returning them. The company would rather this type of adventure not become too common!
The integration of bicycles into public transit in Taiwan is brilliant. As a ‘last mile’ solution, it’s hard to beat. Using the same card/app as your transit pass, YouBikes are free if you’ve just finished a journey on public transport. Otherwise, rides start at less than 20 American cents for up to 15 minutes.
Our most expensive day was 110km from the very north of Taiwan to Hsinchu – the world’s semiconductor capital. It cost 28 USD including penalties.
If anyone is interested in knowing more about how this great system works, about our slightly crazy adventure, the impact it has had on our knees, thighs and other body parts (!) or how to donate to support our charities, post below 😊
(Also – follow us on IG! @challenge_taiwan and watch us ride into Kenting on the southern tip of Taiwan tomorrow to complete the ride)
by CanInTW