The velotaf, that's life! The best alternative to the car and public transport. It's not for nothing that 500,000 employees will be cycling to work in France by 2023, according to the FUB, and that the French government is planning to build 100,000 km of cycle paths by 2030 - twice as many as France currently has.
To help you see things more clearly, if you're still hesitating to take the plunge, we've compiled all our tips for getting started with velotafing!
Equipping your bike for velotafing: everything you need to know
Safety first!
Safety is the number one priority when it comes to velotafing. Being well equipped means being visible and protected. So, let's take a look at the essentials?
Lighting and reflectors
Imagine cycling in the dark on a winter's morning... Not very reassuring, is it? That's where your best allies come in: lighting and reflectors.
For the front, opt for a powerful light, ideally between 400 and 1000 lumens. Some models, like those in the Decathlon range, offer several lighting modes to suit different conditions. At the rear, a flashing red light will do the trick. Don't forget the reflectors on the wheels and pedals!
A professional tip: invest in USB rechargeable lights. No more batteries to change in the middle of the street!
Signalling equipment: the bell!
"Dring dring!" You know the drill. A good bell is essential to warn distracted pedestrians or signal your presence to other road users. Choose one with a clear, powerful sound.
For high-tech fans, there are even ultra-powerful electronic horns. Enough to make you heard in the densest urban traffic!
Helmets and body protection
We can't say it often enough: helmets are essential! Choose one that's comfortable, well-fitting and certified to European standards.
Today's helmets are increasingly light and airy, making them ideal for cyclists.
To take it a step further, consider gloves. They protect your hands in the event of a fall and improve your grip on the handlebars. In winter, they'll keep you warm too!
Comfort and ergonomics
Velotafing is not a race. The aim is to get to work in good shape and without aches and pains. Here's how to optimize your comfort in the saddle.
Ergonomic saddles and grips
You know that unpleasant feeling after a long ride? It's often the sign of an ill-adapted saddle. Invest in an ergonomic saddle, like those from Ergotec. Some models are even specifically designed for men or women. If you can change, wear shorts to and from work - your buttocks will thank you!
When it comes to grips, opt for anatomically-designed models that distribute pressure across the palm. Your back and wrists will thank you!
Weather-appropriate clothing ☔️
In France, the weather can be capricious. Being well equipped means being able to ride in all weathers. In winter, opt for breathable technical layers. A waterproof, windproof jacket is a must.
And don't forget your extremities! Waterproof gloves, a thin cap under your helmet and overshoes will keep you dry and warm. If you can, pack a change of clothes in your bag.
Experienced bikers will tell you: there's no such thing as bad weather, only bad equipment!
Luggage racks and panniers
No more sweaty backpacks! For the velotaf, nothing beats good panniers. Waterproof and roomy, they allow you to carry your gear without impeding your movements.
For those who prefer to keep their own bag, opt for a special cycling model with breathable shoulder straps and a ventilated back. Some brands, such as Hardloop, offer backpacks perfectly suited to the velotaf.
Bike maintenance and basic repairs!
A well-maintained bike is a reliable bike. And when it comes to velotafing, reliability is everything! That's why you need to know how to carry out a few basic operations on your bike!
Basic maintenance tools
Put together a small kit of basic tools: a hand pump, tire levers, a few Allen wrenches, a chain shifter and a multi-tool. With these, you'll be able to deal with most minor mechanical problems.
Don't forget essentials like chain lubricant and a puncture repair kit. Prevention is better than cure, as they say!
Protective accessories: mudguards and chain covers
To keep your clothes clean, mudguards are your best friends. Choose models with good coverage and effective splash protection.
A chain cover will prevent grease stains on your pants. It's a small detail, but when you get to the office, it makes all the difference!
A GPS meter to track your outings and find routes
Navigation and tracking applications
No more detours or delays! Applications like Geovelo guide you along the best cycling routes. Some companies even use Geovelo Entreprise to encourage their employees to take up cycling.
For the more sporty, there are tracking apps that let you record your performance and set goals. Turn your daily commute into a real workout!
Bike computers do much more than just display your speed. Connected to your smartphone, they can guide you, track your heart rate or even detect a fall to warn your loved ones.
Some electric bicycles (VAE) even incorporate connected systems that optimize assistance according to your effort. Useful technology for getting to the office without breaking a sweat!
The velotaf is enjoying impressive growth in France. According to figures, by 2022, 68% of all cycling activity recorded in Paris will be velotaf trips.
And it's not about to stop: the government's target is to increase bike use from 3% to 9% by 2024.
So, are you ready to join the movement? With the right equipment, velotafing becomes an everyday pleasure. Don't forget that many companies are now offering the Forfait Mobilités Durables, financial assistance to encourage environmentally-friendly modes of transport.
It's the perfect time to get started!
The velotaf is also an ecological and economical way of getting around. By pedaling to work, you help to reduce your carbon footprint while making substantial savings. And what about the health benefits? A little exercise every day, and your whole well-being is enhanced.
