In Paris, as elsewhere, the bicycle has become the preferred means of mobility for many French people. The Covid-19 crisis has therefore caused high use and, in cities, the application of numerous aids to help with the purchase of a new bicycle, especially electric.
But when it comes to buying, you still have to think twice, or even several times, to be sure you are making the right decision. BFM Business is here to help you overcome the hurdle. Here are 7 things to consider.
· Don’t spend too much or too little
Electric bike prices range from single to triple or even quadruple. Prices usually start around 1,000 euros, but quickly skyrocket to several thousand euros. It is difficult to navigate this true marketing jungle. However, keep in mind that you should not spend too much or too little. An element that can increase the bill will be the autonomy, and therefore the battery on board the bicycle. But it can also be the type of materials used to design the different elements of the two-wheeled vehicle with the aim of making it lighter or more comfortable.
Getting on a cheap bike is the assurance that it will not last over time. It is best to go to a bicycle dealer to first find out the details of any model you have decided on. But be careful: just because a model is expensive does not necessarily mean that it is of better quality. On the other hand, prefer well-known brands, such as Décathlon, Canyon or Mustache, which have the advantage of producing in France.
· Assistance in purchasing or renting
This is without a doubt the most important question you should ask yourself. As we explained previously, the price of an electric bicycle, much higher than that of a conventional bicycle when used in the city, requires a reasoned purchase. The question arises about its profitability, and before taking out your savings you must first ask yourself if you are going to do enough kilometers after spending several thousand euros.
There are many regions and departments that offer purchasing assistance, and sometimes they can be combined. In Île-de-France, for example, it reaches 500 euros and makes it easier to get the pill. Additionally, the government has widely implemented mileage fees within companies, allowing you to be reimbursed for part of your travel expenses based on the number of kilometers traveled.
You should take this element into account if, like many people, you use an electric bicycle as part of a subscription. There are several solutions, such as Vélib and Vélov’, Véligo, but also Dance and Motto, prices vary, but they can allow you to try the bicycle trip before paying for your own vehicle.
· Which model to choose?
There are many types of bicycles, but not all of them are necessarily useful depending on what you want to do with them. In the case of electric bicycles, there are two main families, in which we can find different sections.
The first is the urban bicycle. Specifically, it is a bicycle that you can use to go to work while being more or less close to your destination, and that is not suitable for leaving the urban area on paths planned at the foot of the road. It generally has a low frame (like a bicycle), but it can also be found with a high frame, for those who prefer a more sporty outfit.
In addition, they are usually quite heavy and will allow you to reach 25 km/h with assistance, but it will be difficult for you to exceed this limit due to the weight (and current regulations). Note that in this category you can also find folding and electric bicycles, which can allow you to do multimodal activities.
The second is all-terrain bicycles or mountain bikes. The question is whether you want to go further with your bike, benefiting from electric assistance during the first kilometers per hour. If you want a sports bike, it may be interesting to opt for a lightweight frame and, therefore, a more easily maneuverable two-wheeled bike, which will allow you to exceed 25 km/h without assistance.
The weight of the bike certainly affects the battery, but also its frame components. Lighter materials, on the other hand, are much more expensive, it remains to be seen what your budget will be.
· Be careful with bicycles that are too connected
The promise may seem tempting: having an ultra-connected bike would allow you to monitor your efforts in real time. However, this is not the correct approach. Several examples show that relying on a fully connected bike can be problematic, as can having a bike with proprietary parts. Vanmoof’s bankruptcy in the summer of 2023 leaves questions about the continuity of service, as well as repairs to bicycles already sold. Problem: The app is needed to unlock the bike and start it.
In short, it is best to opt for models that do not require the activation of any application and that have a complementary application, for example to see the kilometers traveled or manage the engine power. In addition, most connected bracelets and watches manage bicycle rides and will provide you with maximum information, often much more reliable.
· The battery is the key
You probably need a key to unlock it, but the battery is an essential element for your bike trip to go well. On this side, prefer non-proprietary batteries that are removable. New bicycle brands tend to camouflage it as much as possible or integrate it into the frame. It’s nice, but it’s not good at all.
In the event of a breakdown, or simply once it has reached the end of its charging cycle, replacing it easily is much less expensive than having to change bikes. So check this point carefully, preferring batteries from recognized manufacturers on the market.
· The engine in question
What goes for the battery also goes for the motor. By choosing reference manufacturers, such as Bosch, Yamaha or Fazua, you will have fewer problems, in case of breakage or breakdown, to replace it (or repair it, if you can). But beyond that point, the engine location is also worth noting.
For example, if the motor is in the cranks, it will be aligned with the center of gravity of the bike, making it maneuverable. In addition, it offers much softer wearing comfort. However, if the engine is at the rear or front of the bike, this can be a double-edged sword. On the one hand, it will be easier to replace, since it will be enough to remove the wheel, on the other hand, driving will be less pleasant since you will be towed or pushed if necessary.
· Is insurance useful?
Whether in Paris or elsewhere, bicycles are often the object of desire of bullies. If insuring a more traditional bicycle may seem pointless, on more expensive models and, in general, electric bicycles, insurance is a necessity.
Depending on your insurer, you can easily protect your bike against theft and damage. And this, for a few more euros per month. Also check the price of the franchise (what you necessarily have to pay) and what is the maximum amount of the covered bicycle.
· Get equipped!
Contrary to popular belief, you don’t have to spend a lot of money to get the right equipment. Firstly, in the case of bicycles intended for the city, manufacturers are required to provide a certain number of safety features. This goes from the doorbell to the headlights/taillights. But nothing prevents you from buying better quality headlights, taking into account that the objective is to be seen and, as such, Headlights are prohibited by the highway code at the front..
For the rest, and depending on where you live, it may be useful to equip yourself with rain gear or tights. These two elements are economical and provide a certain comfort. Furthermore, a helmet is certainly not mandatory, but since an electrically assisted bicycle can quickly take you over 20 km/h and other road users are not necessarily your best friends, greater safety is never prohibited. If you have glasses, a visor can be useful in case of rain.
Finally, anti-theft is also an element to take into account. In this case, we recommend that you use U-shaped locks instead of chain. Also keep in mind that if you invest in a new bell, a model that allows you to integrate an Air Tag or a tracking roller can be very practical for finding your bike.
Source: BFM TV
