What is cycling to work?

In France, and particularly in Paris and its suburbs, cycling is no longer just a weekend pastime; it has become a genuine mode of daily transportation. The growth of cycle paths, the development of infrastructure, and the desire to adopt a more environmentally friendly lifestyle have made commuting by bike an integral part of urban culture.

Summary:
Origin of the term "vélotaf"
How cycling to work is developing in France
Which bike should I choose for commuting?
Basic equipment for commuting by bike
How to plan your bike commute route
Conclusion

Origin of the term "vélotaf"

Vélotaf is a portmanteau of " vélo" (bike) and "taf" (work to be done). It refers to the practice of using a bicycle for daily commutes between home and work. Today, vélotaf means daily cycling, particularly in large cities like Paris or Lyon. Unlike competitive cycling or cycle touring, the main goal of this practice is to reach the destination quickly, comfortably, and without stress. This mode of transportation has become an essential part of the concept of eco-friendly transport, actively supported by French cities as part of their sustainable mobility policies.

How cycling to work is developing in France

Paris and the Île-de-France region are actively investing in the development of urban cycling infrastructure:

• In recent years, many separate cycle paths, bicycle parking areas and repair stations have been created.

• 30 km/h zones are created, where the speed of vehicles is limited to 30 km/h and priority is given to pedestrians and cyclists.

• Paris and the cities of Île-de-France continue to invest in infrastructure: by 2025, the length of the cycle path network will exceed 1,000 km.

• More and more companies are providing parking and shower facilities for their employees who come by bicycle.

The growing popularity of cycling to work is easily explained: comfort, cost savings, and environmental friendliness. Cycling to work allows you to avoid traffic jams, not be dependent on public transport schedules, and stay in good physical shape. More and more Europeans see cycling as an integral part of the modern urban lifestyle, particularly in central Paris and its inner suburbs.

Which bike should I choose for commuting?

The ideal bike for commuting combines comfort, reliability, and easy maintenance. The most suitable types are:

• The city bike: upright position, mudguards, luggage rack and comfortable saddle.

• Gravel or hybrid bikes: for rides on cobblestones, gravel, or unpaved roads. These bikes offer good speed and the ability to handle all types of terrain.

• The folding bike: ideal if you combine cycling and public transport.

• The electric bike: ideal for long journeys.

Choose your model based on the length of your journey, road conditions, and your personal preferences. For commuting, prioritize a durable drivetrain, powerful brakes, a comfortable riding position, and attachment points for accessories.

For example, the Orbea Kemen combines a lightweight aluminum frame, a luggage rack, and the option to add fenders—everything you need to ride year-round. And the WELT Stroke is an excellent choice for those who live in the suburbs: stable, reliable, and performs well on both asphalt and cobblestones.

When choosing your bike, consider the distance, frequency of your journeys, and the presence of hills. For hilly terrain, an electric bike can be a good solution to make pedaling easier.

Basic equipment for commuting by bike

Safety and comfort during your journeys depend directly on the accessories you choose.

• A helmet is mandatory for all cyclists. It protects the head in case of a fall and must comply with European standards. A good example is Alpina helmets, which combine ventilation, a secure fit, and lightness.

• Front and rear lights ensure your visibility, especially in winter or early morning. Opt for models with multiple modes and sufficient brightness for dark streets.

• Reflective elements on clothing or backpacks make the cyclist more visible to motorists and significantly reduce the risk of accidents at night.

• A bike lock is essential for parking your bicycle at the office, a café, or at home. For extended periods of absence, opt for a U-lock, and consider a second lock for added security.

• Mudguards and a kickstand make cycling practical in all weather conditions. For example, the Cluxx Kickstand Supra is height-adjustable and adapts to different types of bikes, while lightweight Zefal plastic mudguards protect against mud and water.

• A repair kit and pump are essential for any ride. They're useful for inflating a tire or fixing a minor problem along the way. A compact pump easily attaches to the frame, and a multi-tool allows you to adjust the saddle or brakes.

• The cycling backpack is practical for carrying your laptop, documents or clothes.

• Bike bags are useful for longer trips. Handlebar bags, feed bags, frame bags, or fork bags: they allow you to organize all your essentials for the journey. It's important that they are waterproof and securely attached.

How to plan your bike commute route

In France, safe cycling routes are developing rapidly. In Paris and surrounding towns, new cycle paths are being created, linking residential areas to business centers.

When planning your route, prioritize streets with a 30 km/h speed limit and cycle lanes. This reduces the risk of collisions and makes the journey safer.

Mobile applications like Geovelo or Komoot can help you choose the most convenient route, taking into account traffic, elevation changes and road conditions.

If your journey includes connections with public transport, opt for compact or folding models.

Regularly analyzing your route saves time and makes your daily commutes safer and more comfortable.

Conclusion

Cycling to work in France is a lifestyle based on freedom of movement and respect for the environment. Choose a reliable bike, quality equipment, and a safe route, and each morning will be the start of an active and harmonious day.