Services on the road

Introduction

When you ride, you are not alone! A bike tour is not just a simple route and you can find a range of services on the road or nearby. First of all, you should know that there are possibilities to transport your unmounted bike in trains, buses, but also subways and boats (ferries, etc.). Rental services (including the bike, panniers, repair kit, sometimes a helmet or other equipment) exist and can be booked. Other services can be provided along the way to make your life easier: repairs, inflation stations, EAB battery recharging stations, luggage transport or cabs. The bicycle routes and greenways include this notion of service in their specifications, as well as the "Accueil Vélo" label. In any case, don't panic. The circuits are frequented by other cyclists, who are often quick to help each other.

Intermodality: bicycle and train

Policies on intermodality are evolving, and we advise you to consult the carriers' websites to check the conditions for transporting bicycles.

Dismantled bikes or folding bikes. Bicycles that have been dismantled and placed in a cover (maximum size 130 x 90 cm for SNCF), as well as folding bicycles, are accepted free of charge on all trains. However, on OUIGO trains (OUIGO Train Classique and Grande Vitesse), you will be charged €5 when you make your reservation to transport your folded or dismantled bike.

Unassembled bikes. TER (Trains Express Régionaux) trains generally (but not always!) accept unmounted bikes free of charge and without reservation, subject to availability. Check your region's TER website first. On the Intercités network, you'll be charged €10 to transport your bike when you make your reservation. On certain TGV INOUI trains, you can transport your bike for €10, subject to availability and reservation (same for OUIGO Train Classique trains). You can also reserve a paid bicycle space on Eurostar and TGV Lyria trains.

For more information, visit www.sncf-voyageurs.com/fr/voyagez-avec-nous/train-et-velo/votre-velo-a-bord/

Transilien and RATP network

For the Transilien rail network, the schedule is as follows: Monday to Friday, before 6:30 am, between 9:30 am and 4:30 pm and after 7:30 pm. Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays with no time restrictions. Please note that in the event of overcrowding, you may be refused access to the train with your bike. Bicycles are accepted on Transilien buses (including Noctilien) with luggage compartments. On RER trains, bicycles are accepted all day on Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays, and on other days before 6:30 a.m., between 9 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. and after 7 p.m.

For further information: www.ratp.fr/services-aux-voyageurs/services-aux-voyageurs/services-de-mobilite/service-velo

Bicycles and intercity buses

We advise you to consult the websites or contact the carriers directly. Bicycles dismantled in covers are considered as luggage, but conditions vary depending on the line (and the period). Please note that the Loi d'orientation des mobilités stipulates that coaches operating on regular public transport lines after July¹, 2021 must be able to carry a minimum of 5 undismantled bicycles.

Bicycle and boat (ferry)

Bicycle itineraries sometimes involve crossing rivers, seas or estuaries, and take ferries, which generally accept bicycles. Check with your local transport operator. In Paris, the Batobus service (shuttles on the Seine) can take one unmounted bike per boat.

Bicycle and car

A bike carrier allows you to transport your bike in the car. Among the various possibilities is the tailgate bike carrier. It attaches quickly without any height restrictions, and can carry up to four bikes if fitted with an articulating arm.

Bicycle rental

There are short- and medium-term rental systems to suit your needs. Short-term rentals are very practical for touring, allowing you to discover different types of bikes and rent directly at your destination. Some rental companies can also pick up your bike at the end of your stay if you're not doing a loop. Long-term rentals, on the other hand, give you a bike for everyday use. Local authorities offering this service often have attractive rates (including solidarity rates) and include other services: lockers, bike maintenance, etc. Here are a few useful resources:

www.francevelotourisme.com (Accueil Vélo label);

tourist offices: they can provide you with information on rental companies, and sometimes offer rental bikes;

local authorities ;

bike-shops, private rental companies ;

associations ;

the Ouibike online application(www.ouibike.net), which offers a year-round, 24/7 online reservation service. Ouibike also offers bike rental and delivery through a network of over 300 rental outlets;

the Bebike private hire application(www.sobebike.com). It's the first bike rental application for private individuals. Simply download the app and you'll be able to find a bike anywhere in your area.

Bike repair

Before setting off, make sure your bike is in good working order and properly adjusted. If you have a problem on the road, don't panic, just see if you can diagnose and treat it. Routes are usually frequented by other cyclists, so it's highly likely that someone will come along spontaneously to help you. Cycle repair shops are often located close to the routes, at least in the towns. The Accueil Vélo label lists a number of service providers who can carry out repairs or help you. You can also contact the bike rental company, which can offer advice or, in some cases, pick you up.

Luggage and taxi services

If you're going to be out and about for several days and don't want to carry your luggage on your bike, you may be interested to know that on some itineraries, service providers offer a porterage service. You'll find your belongings in your accommodation every evening. Cab services are also available to take you and your bike from point A to point B if you don't want to pedal all day. Keep an eye out for bus and train timetables that accept bicycles (under certain conditions).

Bicycle Home Label

This national brand brings together more than 600 service providers from a variety of sectors: accommodation/restaurants, bike rentals, bike repair shops, tourist offices and tourist sites, all of which offer a number of services dedicated to cycling, based on precise criteria, including location within 5 km of a cycle route, specific advice and facilities (secure bike parking), etc. For further information, visit

www.francevelotourisme.com;

contact tourist offices or visit their websites;

contact your bike rental company or accommodation provider.

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