Heavily dependent on the car, the French use it daily for most journeys. Yet many alternatives exist today. They have the advantage of being economical, ecological and less cumbersome. Here are the solutions available to you.
For its part, the electric assist bike (e-bike) provides optimal comfort. It requires less effort since the movements are assisted. Also ideal for carrying a child without getting tired. It does have a few drawbacks compared to a classic bike, such as its greater weight, its higher ecological footprint due to its motor, and the cost of maintenance and potential repairs. Finally, the e-bike has a higher purchase price — expect to pay between £1,000 and £3,000 or more for a new bike.
Also remember to check in advance on how and which bike to choose and also with your local authority! Some help their residents trial or purchase an electric bike. Indeed, more and more municipalities are encouraging cycle commuting.
And residents are also making up their minds to get in the saddle! The French Federation of Bicycle Users (FUB) recently launched the 3rd edition of the largest citizen survey on everyday cycling in France: the Barometer of Cycle-Friendly Cities.
And whether you choose a classic or electric bike, don't forget to plan the right gear for your daily commute.
What are the alternatives to the car?
If you live in a city, you have the advantage of being able to turn to many alternatives to the private car. Taking the public transport saves you a significant amount of time and money. Moreover, you can read or listen to music during your journey. If for various reasons you cannot do without a car, consider car sharing. The carpooling indeed allows you to make significant savings by sharing costs. This option is well worth considering when you live in the countryside and work in the same town as your neighbours. The daily commute becomes much more enjoyable! On the side of car alternatives that are far more eco-friendly and better for your health, you can take up walking or running. It keeps you fit and helps build muscle. Finally, for longer journeys, the bike is the most suitable mode of transport: it lets you burn energy, save time, requires little maintenance and can be locked almost anywhere.| DID YOU KNOW? Cycling by the numbers* 59% of French people cycle (making it the French's favourite activity) 82% of cyclists use their bike for hiking, leisure rides or recreational activities 29% as a means of getting to work (of whom 39% every day) 90% of pupils live less than one kilometre from their school More than 50% of daily journeys in France are under 3 km, with only 3% made by bike On average, a car emits 164g of CO2/km *Source: vélo et territoire, ADEME |
Should you choose a classic or electric bike?
Choosing the right bike for your needs is very important. The classic bike has many advantages, starting with its lightweight build, manoeuvrability and ease of use or its vintage charm. The bike guarantees a physical workout and helps tone your body, particularly your glutes, thighs and calves.
For its part, the electric assist bike (e-bike) provides optimal comfort. It requires less effort since the movements are assisted. Also ideal for carrying a child without getting tired. It does have a few drawbacks compared to a classic bike, such as its greater weight, its higher ecological footprint due to its motor, and the cost of maintenance and potential repairs. Finally, the e-bike has a higher purchase price — expect to pay between £1,000 and £3,000 or more for a new bike.
Also remember to check in advance on how and which bike to choose and also with your local authority! Some help their residents trial or purchase an electric bike. Indeed, more and more municipalities are encouraging cycle commuting.
And residents are also making up their minds to get in the saddle! The French Federation of Bicycle Users (FUB) recently launched the 3rd edition of the largest citizen survey on everyday cycling in France: the Barometer of Cycle-Friendly Cities.
And whether you choose a classic or electric bike, don't forget to plan the right gear for your daily commute.
What clothing should you wear for cycling commutes?
When you opt for cycle commuting, or how to get to work every day cleanly and reduce your carbon footprint, from waterproof and breathable clothing are essential. A suitable jacket and overtrousers allow you to stay protected from rain and cold while keeping your body warm. Another important technical feature for cycle commuting (home-to-work journeys) or cycling commuting under ideal conditions, is the breathability of your kit. You stay dry both outside and inside, which makes for a very pleasant arrival at your workplace.
At CIMALP®, our goal has been to equip and protect adventurers and outdoor enthusiasts since our founding in 1964. For some, adventure is right around the corner and they live it every day! That's why, committed to being by your side in the adventure that is your life, we developed the RAINPROTEKT line to support all those who cycle commute or are transitioning to this mode of travel. We are firmly committed to encouraging a more responsible lifestyle and approach to consumption!
Fitted with a stretchy waterproof-breathable membrane, the new RAINPROTEKT range is part of this eco-conscious and considered approach to transport. And because we make no compromises on performance, everyday comfort or durability, the RAINPROTEKT parka and overtrousers combine our technical outdoor expertise with our attention to detail and design. To support every environmentally conscious urban adventurer, in any circumstance!
Because it is in our daily choices and actions that we each play our part in the fight for the planet. Because we strive to reconcile performance and sustainable development every day...
