The fare for boarding ranges from 2 to 5 Cuban pesos (a tiny fraction of a US dollar on the informal market) depending on whether you are transporting a bicycle or a motorcycle.

In comparison, a ride in a shared taxi from the eastern neighborhoods — passing through the tunnel — costs 1,000 Cuban pesos (about $2 on the informal market). A Cuban worker can earn a monthly salary of 7,000 Cuban pesos.

Over time, the Ciclobus lost some of its appeal as residents turned to regular buses or shared taxis. But it is now seeing a resurgence as fuel shortages force more Cubans to rely on bicycles, electric tricycles, scooters and motorcycles for their daily commutes.

"Most jobs are on the other side, in the city, and that's why we have to ride it to get across," said 32-year-old gym teacher Barbaro Cabral, gripping his bicycle tightly as the Ciclobus began to fill with passengers.

Agencies via Xinhua