Electric bikes along La Flow Vélo

An electric bike (vélo à assistance électrique, or VAE for short, in French) is a perfect travelling companion to help you overcome difficulties, expand your horizons and embark into the unknown! In recent years, e-bikes have become a much-loved alternative to conventional bikes for cyclists of all kinds. Try one out and you’ll be won over!

What makes a bike according to the French Highway Code

An e-bike is in many ways an ordinary bike, but with one notable difference – it’s equipped with an engine powered by a battery that starts working as soon as you begin to pedal. To be officially approved, e-bikes need to meet specific criteria, in particular: not having a maximum power output exceeding 250 watts; having electric assistance that cuts out above 25kph (the equivalent of not propelling the bike beyond 15.5mph); and activated only when the user pedals.
Approved e-bike models can be ridden along La Flow Vélo cycle route just like classic bikes.

A full range of e-bikes to choose from

Now, you can find e-bikes of very varied types: town e-bikes; hybrid e-bikes; mountain e-bikes; racing e-bikes; folding e-bikes… There are e-bikes to satisfy all needs and all tastes.

Hiring an e-bike – an affordable alternative

Investing in your own e-bike(s) involves considerable expense. Fortunately, hiring an e-bike is an affordable option. Along La Flow Vélo, many bike hire companies now propose a range of recent, well-maintained, reliable e-bikes. This provides a perfect way to enjoy the benefits of the technology without having to commit to a long-term investment in an e-bike.

Recharging your e-bike battery with ease

The electric assistance offered by an e-bike varies according to several factors, but, on average, it can range anywhere from 40km to 100km. It is recommended that you recharge your e-bike battery at every evening stopover, at your accommodation. Note also that, during the day, Accueil Vélo accredited tourist offices, restaurants and bars can also provide charging point, so you might like to make the most of these, literally recharging your bike’s batteries while metaphorically recharging your own!  

Optimizing the range covered by your e-bike – a few tips

To benefit from the greatest range from your e-bike battery, travel as light as possible, keep at a steady speed, use the eco option when you don’t need assistance, and check tyre pressures regularly.

Abide by the current legislation

It is important to note that fast e-bikes that can reach a maximum speed of 45kph are not allowed to be used on French cycle paths and tracks, as they are classified as the equivalent of mopeds or motorcycles, requiring a driving licence, with corresponding legislation to be adhered to.

To summarize, e-bikes provide a modern, ecological way to make the most of a cycling trip. Along La Flow Vélo, it’s an ideal bike on which to tour, allowing you to explore so much in complete freedom.  

E-bike chargers along La Flow Vélo...

At time of writing, only a few e-bike charging points are available along the cycle route, but facilities will develop in the coming months and years. If at present you cannot see the e-bike charging points on our map, you can consult a list of charging points below.