Heavily dependent on the car, the French use it for the majority of their daily journeys. Yet there are many alternatives available today. These have the advantage of being cost-effective, eco-friendly and less congested. Here are the options open to you.
For its part, the electric assist bike (e-bike) provides optimal comfort. It means less effort, as the motor assists your movements. Also ideal for transporting a child without getting tired. It does have a few drawbacks compared to a traditional bike, however: its heavier weight, its greater ecological footprint due to the 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 be sure to check in advance on 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 councils are indeed encouraging cycle commuting.
And residents are also making up their minds to get in the saddle! The Fédération Française des Usages de la Bicyclette (FUB) has recently launched the 3rd edition of the largest civic survey on everyday cycling in France: the Cycling Cities Barometer.
Whether you choose a traditional or electric bike, don't forget to plan the right kit for your everyday journeys.
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. Take the public transport offers a significant saving of both time and money. You can also read or listen to music during your commute. If for various reasons you simply can't do without a car, consider car sharing. The carpooling does indeed let you save money by sharing costs. This is particularly worthwhile if you live in the countryside and work in the same town as your neighbours. The daily commute becomes a much more enjoyable experience! For car alternatives that are far more eco-friendly and better for your health, you could also try walking or running. This keeps you fit and builds muscle. Finally, for longer journeys, the bike is the most practical mode of transport: it lets you burn energy, 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 leisure rides or excursions 29% as a means of getting 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 traditional or electric bike?
Choosing the right bike for your needs is very important. The traditional bicycle has many advantages, starting with its lightness, manoeuvrability and ease of use or its vintage charm. Cycling guarantees physical exercise and builds muscle — particularly the glutes, thighs and calves.
For its part, the electric assist bike (e-bike) provides optimal comfort. It means less effort, as the motor assists your movements. Also ideal for transporting a child without getting tired. It does have a few drawbacks compared to a traditional bike, however: its heavier weight, its greater ecological footprint due to the 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 be sure to check in advance on 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 councils are indeed encouraging cycle commuting.
And residents are also making up their minds to get in the saddle! The Fédération Française des Usages de la Bicyclette (FUB) has recently launched the 3rd edition of the largest civic survey on everyday cycling in France: the Cycling Cities Barometer.
Whether you choose a traditional or electric bike, don't forget to plan the right kit for your everyday journeys.
What to wear when cycling?
When you opt for the cycle commuting, or how to get to work every day cleanly and while reducing your carbon footprint — waterproof and breathable clothing are essential. A suitable jacket and a pair of overtrousers allow you to shelter from rain and cold while retaining your body heat. Another important technical feature for cycle commuting (the daily home-to-work journey) or cycle commuting under ideal conditions, is the breathability of your kit. This way you stay dry on the outside and the inside — a very welcome state of affairs when you arrive at work.
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Because it's in our everyday choices and actions that we each play our part in the fight for the planet. Because we strive to reconcile performance and durable development every day…
