Center of Bicycle Technology
Maya Pedal is a Guatemalan NGO based in San Andrés Itzapa, Chimaltenango. They accept bikes donated from the USA and Canada which they either recover them to sell, or use the components to build a range of « Bicimaquinas », (pedal powered machines).
Pedal power can be harnessed for countless applications which would otherwise require electricity (which may not be available) or hand power (which is far more effort). Bicimaquinas are easy and enjoyable to use. They can be built using locally available materials and can be easily adapted to suit the needs of local people. They free the user from rising energy costs, can be used anywhere, are easy to maintain, produce no pollution and provide healthy exercise.
You’ll be surprise about the diversity of bicimaquinas. Have a look here.
They make water pumps, grinders, threshers, tile makers, nut shellers, blenders (for making soaps and shampoos as well as food products), trikes, trailers and more.
Commitments in Guatemala
They have a busy workshop staffed by locals and by volunteers from around the World. As well as building Bicimaquinas, they offer a bike repair service and sell used bikes in the surrounding area.
They also work with a number of local partners, NGO’s, agricultural cooperatives and organic producers as you can see here.
International Collaborations
They are supported by a number of international organizations and accept volunteers with a range of skills and interests.
They are in the process of making our designs available globally, via downloadable fact sheets and step by step instructions.
They aim to be a center of pedal power research and development and an information resource for NGO’s promoting appropriate technology and small-scale, sustainable agriculture.
Support them!
You can help them by providing your bicycle or other stuffs here.
SUR LA ROUTE DU PATRIMOINE 