Paris

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Bicycles and Scooters

Sections

1. Rental Options for Bicycles and Scooters

Bicycles

Paris has a well-developed bike-sharing system and private rental services:

  • Vélib’ Métropole:
    The city’s official bike-sharing system, offering both traditional and electric bikes.

    • How it works:
      1. Download the Vélib’ app or use the kiosks at docking stations.
      2. Choose a subscription plan or pay-as-you-go.
      3. Unlock a bike using the app or your subscription card.
    • Costs:
      • Short-term passes:
        • 1-day pass: €5 (includes unlimited 30-minute rides).
        • 7-day pass: €15.
      • Pay-as-you-go:
        • Mechanical bikes: €1 per 30 minutes.
        • Electric bikes: €2 per 30 minutes.
      • Overtime fees apply for rides exceeding 30 minutes.
    • Docking:
      Bikes must be returned to a Vélib’ station to end the rental.

  • Private Bike Rentals:
    Companies like Donkey Republic, Paris à Vélo, and Holland Bikes offer hourly or daily rentals.

    • Costs:
      • Mechanical bikes: €10–€15 per day.
      • Electric bikes: €25–€40 per day.
    • Procedure:
      Book online or in-store, provide ID, and pay a deposit (if required).

Scooters

Electric scooters are widely available through app-based services:

  • Providers: Lime, Dott, and Tier.
  • How it works:
    1. Download the provider’s app.
    2. Create an account and add payment details.
    3. Locate a scooter using the app, scan the QR code to unlock, and start riding.
  • Costs:
    • Unlock fee: €1.
    • Per-minute rate: €0.15–€0.25.
    • Some providers offer day passes or subscription plans for frequent users.

2. Procedures for Renting and Using

Bicycles

  1. Sign Up:
    For Vélib’, create an account via the app or at a docking station. For private rentals, book online or visit a rental shop.
  2. Payment:
    Use a credit/debit card. Some services may require a refundable deposit.
  3. Unlocking:
    Use the app or a subscription card to unlock the bike.
  4. Returning:
    Dock the bike at an official station (for Vélib’) or return it to the rental shop.

Scooters

  1. Download the App:
    Choose a provider (Lime, Dott, or Tier) and create an account.
  2. Locate a Scooter:
    Use the app’s map to find a nearby scooter.
  3. Unlock and Ride:
    Scan the QR code on the scooter to unlock it.
  4. End the Ride:
    Park the scooter in a designated area (not blocking sidewalks or entrances) and end the ride in the app.

3. Safety Regulations

General Rules for Both Bicycles and Scooters

  • Helmets:
    Not mandatory for adults but strongly recommended. Helmets are required for children under 12.
  • Traffic Laws:
    • Follow the same rules as motor vehicles (e.g., stop at red lights, yield to pedestrians).
    • Use bike lanes where available.
    • Do not ride on sidewalks (except for children under 8 on bicycles).
  • Lights and Reflectors:
    • Bikes and scooters must have front and rear lights at night.
    • Reflectors are required for visibility.
  • Alcohol and Phones:
    • Riding under the influence of alcohol or using a phone while riding is prohibited.

Specific to Scooters

  • Speed Limit:
    Electric scooters are limited to 20 km/h (12 mph) and 10 km/h (6 mph) in pedestrian-heavy areas.
  • Parking:
    Park only in designated areas to avoid fines or impoundment.

4. Local Etiquette

  • Sharing the Road:
    • Be courteous to pedestrians and other cyclists.
    • Signal your intentions (e.g., turning or stopping) using hand gestures.
  • Bike Lanes:
    • Stick to bike lanes where available.
    • Avoid riding in bus lanes unless explicitly allowed.
  • Scooter Parking:
    • Do not block sidewalks, doorways, or public spaces.
    • Use designated parking zones marked on the app.
  • Noise:
    Avoid using bells excessively unless necessary to alert others.

5. Tips for Navigating Paris by Bicycle or Scooter

  • Plan Your Route:
    Use apps like Google Maps, Citymapper, or the Vélib’ app to find bike-friendly routes. Paris has over 1,000 km of bike lanes, including scenic paths along the Seine and through parks like Bois de Boulogne and Bois de Vincennes.
  • Avoid Rush Hours:
    Traffic can be intense during morning (7:30–9:30 AM) and evening (5:00–7:30 PM) rush hours.
  • Weather Considerations:
    Paris weather can be unpredictable, so carry a raincoat or poncho.
  • Secure Your Ride:
    If using a private rental bike, lock it securely when parked. Vélib’ bikes are docked, so no additional lock is needed.
  • Stay Alert:
    Watch for cars, buses, and pedestrians, especially at intersections and roundabouts.

6. Environmental and Cultural Considerations

  • Eco-Friendly Travel:
    Paris is committed to reducing car traffic and promoting sustainable transportation. Using bicycles and scooters aligns with the city’s green initiatives.
  • Cultural Norms:
    Parisians value efficiency and order, so follow traffic rules and avoid obstructing others.

7. Accessibility and Language

  • Language:
    Most apps and rental services are available in English, but knowing basic French phrases (e.g., "Excusez-moi" or "Pardon") can be helpful.
  • Tourist-Friendly:
    Many rental shops cater to tourists and provide maps, helmets, and advice.

8. Key Contacts and Resources

By following this guide, you’ll be well-prepared to explore Paris efficiently and safely using bicycles and scooters. Enjoy your ride through the City of Light!