General Havana Information - Real Havana: Explore Cuba Like a Local and Save Money - page 109

nos market. Many people walk around this area, promoting used bikes that they
are trying to sell. Just a few streets south, at the corner of Vigia and Pila streets,
you will find dozens of used bike vendors and bike mechanics. On some week-
ends there are literally hundreds of old bikes on display in the streets, with mech-
anics busily working to get them all repaired. This is the only area of Havana
where I have consistently seen many bike dealers and actually had any success
with purchasing a used bike for a reasonable price.
Note: Several sources on the internet claim that there is a “bike depot” located be-
side the Capitolio, in the Edificio Metropolitano. To my knowledge, this depot no
longer exists.
Your other option to buy a used bike is to look on the Cuban classified ads web-
site, www.Revolico.com. The prices on this site are usually considerably higher,
but it is a good opportunity to hone your negotiation skills.
Bike Repairs
If your bike needs repairs, the best place to go is to a local ponchera mechanic
shop. These tiny, independently run businesses are usually located around gas
stations and popular taxi stops. The mechanics specialize in repairing tire punc-
tures for both cars and bikes, but can handle most other small fixes as well. Punc-
ture repairs cost only 10 pesos (MN).Thousands of these shops are scattered
around Havana; just look for the sign in front reading Ponchera.
Important Note: If you plan on using a bike in Cuba, always remember to bring a
good lock with you, since bike locks are almost impossible to find in Cuba and
theft is high. Even if you have a good lock, the best way to be absolutely sure that
your bike will be safe is to park it in a secure facility, called a Parqueo .
Throughout Havana, wherever there is a parking lot, you will notice attendants,
dressed in state-issued, red and white uniforms, keeping watch over the cars, mo-
torcycles and bikes. For a nominal sum (half a peso (MN) per hour) the attendant
will guard your bike. The small cost is well worth the peace of mind.