Heavily dependent on the car, the French use it for the majority of their daily journeys. Yet many alternatives exist today. They have the advantage of being economical, ecological and less cumbersome. Here are the options available to you.
For its part, the electric assist bike (e-bike) provides optimal comfort. It reduces effort since your movements are assisted. Also ideal for carrying a child without tiring yourself out. It does have a few drawbacks compared to a standard bike: its greater weight, a higher environmental footprint due to its motor, and the cost of maintenance and potential breakdowns. Finally, the e-bike comes with a higher purchase price — expect to pay between £1,000 and £3,000 or more for a new one.
Also make sure to research how and which bike to choose and also from your local community authority! Some help residents trial or purchase an electric bike. An increasing number of local authorities are encouraging cycling to work.
And residents are also deciding to get in the saddle! The French Federation of Bicycle Users (FUB) recently launched the 3rd edition of the largest citizen survey on daily cycling in France: the Cycling City Barometer.
Whether you choose a standard or electric bike, don't forget to get the right kit for your daily journeys.
What are the alternatives to the car?
If you live in the 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. You can also read or listen to music during your commute. If for various reasons you cannot do without a car, consider car sharing. The carpooling does indeed let you make real savings by sharing costs. This is not a negligible option when you live in the countryside and work in the same town as your neighbours. Your 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 try walking or running. This keeps you fit and helps build muscle. Finally, for longer journeys, the bike is the most suitable mode of transport: it keeps you active, saves time, requires little maintenance and can be locked up almost anywhere.| DID YOU KNOW? Cycling by the numbers* 59% of French people cycle (making it the nation's favourite activity) 82% of cyclists use their bike for touring, leisure rides or outings 29% use it as a means of transport to get to work (of whom 39% do so 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, yet only 3% are made by bike On average, a car emits 164g of CO2/km *Source: vélo et territoire, ADEME |
Should you choose a standard or electric bike?
Choosing the right bike for your needs is very important. A standard bike has many advantages, starting with its lightness, manoeuvrability and ease of use or its vintage charm. Cycling guarantees you a good 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 reduces effort since your movements are assisted. Also ideal for carrying a child without tiring yourself out. It does have a few drawbacks compared to a standard bike: its greater weight, a higher environmental footprint due to its motor, and the cost of maintenance and potential breakdowns. Finally, the e-bike comes with a higher purchase price — expect to pay between £1,000 and £3,000 or more for a new one.
Also make sure to research how and which bike to choose and also from your local community authority! Some help residents trial or purchase an electric bike. An increasing number of local authorities are encouraging cycling to work.
And residents are also deciding to get in the saddle! The French Federation of Bicycle Users (FUB) recently launched the 3rd edition of the largest citizen survey on daily cycling in France: the Cycling City Barometer.
Whether you choose a standard or electric bike, don't forget to get the right kit for your daily journeys.
What clothing should you wear when cycling?
When you opt for cycling to work, or how to get to work every day in a clean way while reducing your carbon footprint — waterproof and breathable clothing are essential. A suitable jacket and overtrousers allow you to shield yourself from rain and cold while retaining your body heat. Another important technical feature for cycling to work (daily commute) or cycling to work under ideal conditions, is the breathability of your kit. This keeps you dry on the outside and the inside — a very welcome state when you arrive at work.
At CIMALP®, our goal since our founding in 1964 has been to equip and protect adventurers and athletes. For some, adventure is right around the corner — and they live it every day! That is why, eager to stand alongside you in the adventure that is your life, we developed the RAINPRTOTEKT range to support everyone who cycles to work or is transitioning to this mode of transport. We are firmly committed to encouraging a more responsible lifestyle and approach to consumption!
Featuring a stretchy waterproof-breathable membrane, the new RAINPROTEKT range is part of this movement towards ecological and considered commuting. And because we make no compromises on performance, everyday comfort, or durability, the RAINPRTOTEKT parka and overtrousers combine our outdoor technical expertise with our attention to detail and design. To support all environmentally conscious urban adventurers in any situation!
Because it is in our daily choices and actions that we play our part in the fight for the planet. Because we strive to reconcile performance and durable development every day...
