Achat d'un vélo électrique à Hanoï
by Migiol
This discussion is in French, the community’s main language.
Original post
Bonsoir à tous.
Avec mon épouse, nous prévoyions de faire le Vietnam, du Nord au Sud, à vélo, à raison de 30 à 50 km maxi par jour, sur certainement 2 petits mois. Par contre, je ne sais pas s'il est préférable d'emporter son vélo de France ou de l'acheter sur place.
Pour cela je voudrai connaître quelques adresses de vendeurs de vélo électriques et de préférence de bonne qualité car je n'ai aucune idée du coût.
Merci de me contacter, si vous avez déjà fait ce type de circuit ou si vous avez de bons conseils à me communiquer.
MIGIOL
Bonjour
Les vélos électriques de ville coûtent aux alentours de 8 à 10 millions de VND (1 euro = 26500 VND) mais sont en général équipés de petites roues 20 à 24". La marque Giant a des vélos de randonnée électrique, avec dérailleur et cassette 6/9 vitesses qui coûtent aux alentours de 20 millions de VND (par exemple http://giantvietnam.vn/explore-e.html) selon les promotions.
Cordialement Quynh
Les vélos électriques de ville coûtent aux alentours de 8 à 10 millions de VND (1 euro = 26500 VND) mais sont en général équipés de petites roues 20 à 24". La marque Giant a des vélos de randonnée électrique, avec dérailleur et cassette 6/9 vitesses qui coûtent aux alentours de 20 millions de VND (par exemple http://giantvietnam.vn/explore-e.html) selon les promotions.
Cordialement Quynh
Vu Do Quynh (Hanoi, Vietnam)
http://vdquynh.blogspot.com/
Bonsoir,
Il me semble qu'il ne vous serait pas possible d'emporter vos vélos car les batteries ne peuvent pas se mettre en soute et dépassent la taille admise en cabine. En tout cas cela avait fait l'objet d'une discussion il y a un certain temps.
https://voyageforum.com/discussion/transport-velo-assistance-electrique-par-avion-d7769718/
A vérifier donc auprès de la compagnie aérienne .
Je n'aurai pas le temps...
Bonsoir.
Effectivement, en regardant le plan de Hanoï, j'ai vu qu'il y avait de nombreux magasins de vélos, mais avant de partir, j'aimerai avoir quelques renseignements sur les différents types de vélos et surtout leur qualité. Je vais essayer d'avoir ces renseignements par email. Encore merci.
MIGIOL
Bonsoir.
Il est vrai qu'il nous faudrait des vélos de randonnées électriques; ces vélos sont assez chers mais on l'air de bonne qualité. J'ai regardé sur le site de Giant et c'est le type de vélo qui nous conviendrait car nous voulons faire une grosse partie du Nord Vietnam (Hanoï, Nghia Lo, Sa Pa, Lao Cai, sa Pa, Lai Chau, Dien Bien Phu, Son La, Ninh Binh). Vaste programme 🤪 😎.
Je vais contacter plusieurs revendeurs de vélos électriques sur Hanoï et voir éventuellement pour une location et le rendre à la fin de notre périple sur Saïgon. En tout les cas, merci de votre message et de vos infos.
Cordialement.
Michel
MIGIOL
Je ne suis pas vraiment de cet avis : j'ai déjà fait le Nord du Vietnam (Hà Giang, Dong Van et Meo vac) en vélo ordinaire de randonnée, et également la longue côte de Lao cai à Sapa (25 km de montée de l'élévation d'environ 150 m au pied du col jusqu'à 1550m à Sapa).
En zone montagneuse, Il suffit de faire des étapes de 50 km, ce qui est la distance approximative maximale entre deux chefs-lieux de district dans cette région. A chaque chef-lieu de district il y a des guesthouses et des hôtels où il est possible de recharger son vélo. D'ailleurs dans ces bourgades le vélo électrique de ville (sans pédales) est communément utilisé par les collégiens de familles aisées.
Ensuite, quand ça monte, cela veut dire qu'il y a aussi des descentes (donc sur 50 km il n'y a qu'environ 30 % en montée véritable, le reste étant du faux-plat et de la descente) où on peut éteindre le moteur électrique pour économiser la batterie. Enfin, les vélos électriques de randonnée qui sont chers le sont justement parce que la batterie est de meilleure qualité (dure plus longtemps en mode économique). Il s'agit ici de pédaler avec l'assistance du moteur et non de monter à la seule force du moteur, bien entendu.
J'ai déjà envisagé de m'équiper avec un vélo électrique mais ce sera seulement pour quand je ne pourrai plus grimper les côtes à la seule force de mes jambes.
Cordialement Quynh
En zone montagneuse, Il suffit de faire des étapes de 50 km, ce qui est la distance approximative maximale entre deux chefs-lieux de district dans cette région. A chaque chef-lieu de district il y a des guesthouses et des hôtels où il est possible de recharger son vélo. D'ailleurs dans ces bourgades le vélo électrique de ville (sans pédales) est communément utilisé par les collégiens de familles aisées.
Ensuite, quand ça monte, cela veut dire qu'il y a aussi des descentes (donc sur 50 km il n'y a qu'environ 30 % en montée véritable, le reste étant du faux-plat et de la descente) où on peut éteindre le moteur électrique pour économiser la batterie. Enfin, les vélos électriques de randonnée qui sont chers le sont justement parce que la batterie est de meilleure qualité (dure plus longtemps en mode économique). Il s'agit ici de pédaler avec l'assistance du moteur et non de monter à la seule force du moteur, bien entendu.
J'ai déjà envisagé de m'équiper avec un vélo électrique mais ce sera seulement pour quand je ne pourrai plus grimper les côtes à la seule force de mes jambes.
Cordialement Quynh
Vu Do Quynh (Hanoi, Vietnam)
http://vdquynh.blogspot.com/
Oui, mais un velo electrique n'a rien a voir avec un velo normal ! Pas de vitesses et surtout tres lourd a cause du poids de la batterie ; je les vois bien monter (avec un bagage en plus, sur un porte-bagage minuscule) les 20 km du col avant d'arriver a Sapa au depart de Mu Can Chai ou les 15 km du Ma Pi Leng !!!!
Méfiez-vous de la vie, car les ratés ne vous rateront pas!
Etant donné que nous envisageons de faire entre 25 et 30 km par jour, je pense que cela n'est pas impossible, même si nous avons des sacoches avec nous. Si nous avons des difficultés, on fera du Stop 😉 ou bien nous prendrons un bus ou un autre véhicule.
Pour ce qui est de l'électricité, apparemment on en trouve presque de partout et comme nous voulons loger, soit dans des Guesthouse ou des Nha Nghi. On verra bien.....😏
MIGIOL
Bonjour
J'ai trouvé sur internet ce modèle que je trouve avec un prix assez raisonnable (13 millions VND). Il y a un distributeur à Hanoi dans la liste. https://www.thegioixechaydien.com.vn/xe-dap-dien-bmx-azibike-sport.html
Apparemment c'est un triple plateau avec une cassette probablement de 7 pignons. Le porte-bagage est dit pouvoir supporter 80 kg. La distance moyenne 40-50 km avec un temps de recharge de 4-6 heures. Roues de 26 pouces.
Cordialement Quynh
J'ai trouvé sur internet ce modèle que je trouve avec un prix assez raisonnable (13 millions VND). Il y a un distributeur à Hanoi dans la liste. https://www.thegioixechaydien.com.vn/xe-dap-dien-bmx-azibike-sport.html
Apparemment c'est un triple plateau avec une cassette probablement de 7 pignons. Le porte-bagage est dit pouvoir supporter 80 kg. La distance moyenne 40-50 km avec un temps de recharge de 4-6 heures. Roues de 26 pouces.
Cordialement Quynh
Vu Do Quynh (Hanoi, Vietnam)
http://vdquynh.blogspot.com/
Bonjour
J'ai tardé à reprendre contact avec le forum car j'ai fait un petit comparatif avec les 2 références de vélos que vous m'avez communiqués, plus un autre qu'un ami enseignant de l'Université d'Hanoï, m'a proposé. Cette comparaison, je l'ai faite sur le vélo "Giant Explore E+" (roue de 26"), le "Bmx Azibike Sport" (roue de 26") et enfin le "Yamaha Icats N2". Ce dernier, à mon avis est fait principalement pour la ville, pour du "plat" et en plus il a des roues de 22" qui sont trop petites.
Par contre entre le Giant et le BMX, l'idéal pour le circuit que nous voulons faire, serait le Giant (22kg batterie comprise), car le BMX pèse un peu plus (30kg); par contre le prix du Giant est presque le double du BMX (Giant = 22 700 000 VND et le BMX = 12 990 00 VND). Je vais essayer, avec les concessionnaires, de négocier les prix et voir éventuellement s'ils seraient d'accord de me les racheter à Saïgon, ville de notre fin de séjour.
J'envisage, également, de leur demander une location sur ces modèles; à voir.....🙂. Je donnerai sur le Forum, les infos que j'aurai recueillies.
Bien Cordialement.😉 Migiol
Par contre entre le Giant et le BMX, l'idéal pour le circuit que nous voulons faire, serait le Giant (22kg batterie comprise), car le BMX pèse un peu plus (30kg); par contre le prix du Giant est presque le double du BMX (Giant = 22 700 000 VND et le BMX = 12 990 00 VND). Je vais essayer, avec les concessionnaires, de négocier les prix et voir éventuellement s'ils seraient d'accord de me les racheter à Saïgon, ville de notre fin de séjour.
J'envisage, également, de leur demander une location sur ces modèles; à voir.....🙂. Je donnerai sur le Forum, les infos que j'aurai recueillies.
Bien Cordialement.😉 Migiol
MIGIOL
Bonjour,
Acheter un velo electrique puis revendre apres le sejour ce serait un probleme! Si vous achetez un tout neuf, apres 2 mois de l'utilisation, vous perdrez pas mal du tout!
Mon conseil: Si vous pouvez conduire une moto, vous pouvez acheter une d'occasion a Hanoi et rendre facilement a Saigon!
Bon courage et bonne chance!
Acheter un velo electrique puis revendre apres le sejour ce serait un probleme! Si vous achetez un tout neuf, apres 2 mois de l'utilisation, vous perdrez pas mal du tout!
Mon conseil: Si vous pouvez conduire une moto, vous pouvez acheter une d'occasion a Hanoi et rendre facilement a Saigon!
Bon courage et bonne chance!
Bonjour
Je reviens vers vous pour vous demander d'autres informations sur les différentes compagnies de bus circulant au Vietnam et surtout dans le Nord du Vietnam.
Je voudrai savoir si toutes les compagnies de bus prennent des voyageurs avec des vélos, car nous voulons faire certaines étapes en bus, notamment de Lao Cai à Bac Ha. Pouvez-vous me donner ces renseignements ou me rediriger sur des compagnies de bus ? Merci d'avance.
Migiol.
MIGIOL
Bonjour,
Je ne peux évidemment pas garantir en leur nom que toutes les compagnies de bus vont toujours transporter des vélos. Elles font ce qu'elles veulent (en fait ce sont surtout les chauffeurs et leurs aides qui font la décision). Si la soute est vide, des motocyclettes sont même transportées et parfois elles ont aussi transportées sur le toit quand il existe une galerie à bagages ou dans certaines régions. Donc, oui, en général les autocars peuvent transporter des vélos en soute. C'est plus facile au départ du terminal qu'en cours de route. Mais au Vietnam rien n'est impossible, on trouve toujours solution moyennant finance.
Pour les autocars de moyenne capacité (20-25 places), le vélo est parfois placé dans l'allée centrale au mépris du confort des passagers. Ceci est fréquent dans les zones reculées.
Cordialement Quynh
Je ne peux évidemment pas garantir en leur nom que toutes les compagnies de bus vont toujours transporter des vélos. Elles font ce qu'elles veulent (en fait ce sont surtout les chauffeurs et leurs aides qui font la décision). Si la soute est vide, des motocyclettes sont même transportées et parfois elles ont aussi transportées sur le toit quand il existe une galerie à bagages ou dans certaines régions. Donc, oui, en général les autocars peuvent transporter des vélos en soute. C'est plus facile au départ du terminal qu'en cours de route. Mais au Vietnam rien n'est impossible, on trouve toujours solution moyennant finance.
Pour les autocars de moyenne capacité (20-25 places), le vélo est parfois placé dans l'allée centrale au mépris du confort des passagers. Ceci est fréquent dans les zones reculées.
Cordialement Quynh
Vu Do Quynh (Hanoi, Vietnam)
http://vdquynh.blogspot.com/
Les gros bus n'en prennent pas, par contre, les minibus servent souvent également de camions, donc chargent sur le toit. Vous en prenez donc un, sur la place de la gare ou à la station de bus au fond de l'avenue à droite (quand on regarde la gare) ; sur la même avenue, s'arrêter à gauche à l'excellent Pineapple pour pt déj ou déj, pas sur la place de la Gare, gargottes avec bouffe lambda ou moins
Ceci dit, la route entre Lao Cai et Bac Ha est très belle, faites-la en vélo (grand col avant d'arriver à BH)
Ceci dit, la route entre Lao Cai et Bac Ha est très belle, faites-la en vélo (grand col avant d'arriver à BH)
Méfiez-vous de la vie, car les ratés ne vous rateront pas!
Bonsoir Larsay
Merci pour tous ces renseignements et ces bonnes adresses.
Vous nous parler de faire le trajet Lao Cai - Bac Ha en vélo, mais j'ai vu que le trajet emprunté une partie de l'autoroute AH 14 et les vélos n'y sont pas autorisés. Il est vrai que cette vallée pour aller à Bac Ha à l'air très belle et différente de SaPa. Connaitriez-vous un trajet qui évite cette portion d'autoroute ?
Ensuite de Bac Ha, nous voudrions rejoindre Le Parc National et le lac de Ba Bê, y a t'il également une route pour ne pas passer par la même portion d'autoroute (AH 14), car ensuite, nous pouvons prendre la QL 279.
Merci d'avance pour tout.
Cordialement.
Migiol
MIGIOL
Pour aller de Lao Cai à BH, pas d'auroute, qui est à l'ouest de Lao Cai. Deux routes possibles : la route "normale" descendant la route 70 LC-Hanoi jusqu'à Bac Ngam, , puis remontant sur BH (route 153) ; il y a également une route magnifique : vous prenez la route LC-Ha Noi et ensuite, à 9 km de LC, à gauche (panneau Muong Khouong - Route 4D) et vous faites LC-MK-Pha Long-Si Ma Cai-Can Cau-BH
BH-Babe, ça fait une sacrée trotte, presque 400 km de superbes routes de montagne = au moins 5 jours ! Je pense préférable que vous retourniez à Lao Cai et mettiez les vélos sur le train de nuit de Hanoi, puis y aller au départ de Hanoi.
Contactez-moi quand vs êtes à Hanoi ; je vs expliquerai tout cela et vs donnerez des cartes très précises de toute la région
BH-Babe, ça fait une sacrée trotte, presque 400 km de superbes routes de montagne = au moins 5 jours ! Je pense préférable que vous retourniez à Lao Cai et mettiez les vélos sur le train de nuit de Hanoi, puis y aller au départ de Hanoi.
Contactez-moi quand vs êtes à Hanoi ; je vs expliquerai tout cela et vs donnerez des cartes très précises de toute la région
Méfiez-vous de la vie, car les ratés ne vous rateront pas!
Bonjour,
Il n'y a pas d'autoroute entre Lao Cai et Bac Ha. C'est une route nationale (N70), principalement à 2 voies avec un trafic routier pas trop élevé (essentiellement local). A la bifurcation pour aller à Bac Ha, la Départementale 153 (DT 153) est de bonne qualité. Bac Ha se trouve sur un plateau ou une vallée située à près de 1000 mètres d'altitude.
J'ai fait la grimpée en vélo en mai 2012: http://vdquynh.blogspot.com/2012/05/la-grimpee-vers-bac-ha.html
Cordialement Quynh
Il n'y a pas d'autoroute entre Lao Cai et Bac Ha. C'est une route nationale (N70), principalement à 2 voies avec un trafic routier pas trop élevé (essentiellement local). A la bifurcation pour aller à Bac Ha, la Départementale 153 (DT 153) est de bonne qualité. Bac Ha se trouve sur un plateau ou une vallée située à près de 1000 mètres d'altitude.
J'ai fait la grimpée en vélo en mai 2012: http://vdquynh.blogspot.com/2012/05/la-grimpee-vers-bac-ha.html
Cordialement Quynh
Vu Do Quynh (Hanoi, Vietnam)
http://vdquynh.blogspot.com/
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😎Fellow traveling cyclists or not, all of you who love travel, the pleasure of physical effort, nature, beautiful machines, people with true passions they seek to fulfill, and who also enjoy reading great literature about all this—the *200* magazine is for you just as it is for me. I should mention I have no financial or other interest in this (in an era where we accuse our politicians of all sorts of vile interests, I prefer to take precautions). I’ve been subscribed since the beginning, and every three months, I get my 130 pages of dreams (the magazine just went from 110 to 130 pages).
It covers everything from the trans-America route to the TCR (Trans Continental Race) from Belgium to a small town in Turkey, with mind-blowing averages—4,000 km and 80,000 m of elevation gain in 8 days and 15 hours for the winner. Let that sink in, and all of it without assistance—accepting a patch could penalize you. There’s also a story about crossing Iran, encountering one of the world’s most welcoming populations, following in the footsteps of Nicolas Bouvier, as well as retirees leisurely traversing France. The common thread in all these stories? Beautiful writing. Take, for example, a stunning article: *"Passengers of the Cold: From Edinburgh to Thurso, at the very north of Scotland, 550 km of moors, coasts, and icy wind. In Thurso, the road ends at a quay, facing the Orkney Islands. We wanted a November trip, off-season. We wanted to surprise winter. Just before the snow."* A sublime piece on the experience of facing adversity and the chance encounters along the road and in the elements.
Before I embarked on my own bike trips, I dreamed a lot about them—from the Atacama to the Gobi, along the Mekong, and not forgetting France. And now, these 130 pages every quarter keep those dreamy vibes alive through stories written in the most beautiful prose.
I’ll stop here because it might sound like I’m advertising, but if you don’t know *200*, I invite you to discover it. It’ll give you wings for the most incredible challenges or simply reinforce your desire for slow rides with your eyes open to others and nature.
A little news to wrap up: Axel Carion and a friend just broke the record for crossing South America from Colombia to Ushuaia in 59 days. On its own, that doesn’t mean much, but I can’t help it—it makes me dream. You should see how he talks about it, the flashes of that wild nature he’s stored away: a snowstorm at Paso Jama and the surreal sight of the suddenly snow-covered Licancabur!
Luc PS: The magazine is called *200* because a day’s ride starts at 200 km—well, I’ve never done a ride like that since my longest was 167 km (with 18 kg of luggage, mind you), but why not one day? The magazine will explain how to tackle your first 200, and then the question in conclusion: when will you do your first 300?😏
It covers everything from the trans-America route to the TCR (Trans Continental Race) from Belgium to a small town in Turkey, with mind-blowing averages—4,000 km and 80,000 m of elevation gain in 8 days and 15 hours for the winner. Let that sink in, and all of it without assistance—accepting a patch could penalize you. There’s also a story about crossing Iran, encountering one of the world’s most welcoming populations, following in the footsteps of Nicolas Bouvier, as well as retirees leisurely traversing France. The common thread in all these stories? Beautiful writing. Take, for example, a stunning article: *"Passengers of the Cold: From Edinburgh to Thurso, at the very north of Scotland, 550 km of moors, coasts, and icy wind. In Thurso, the road ends at a quay, facing the Orkney Islands. We wanted a November trip, off-season. We wanted to surprise winter. Just before the snow."* A sublime piece on the experience of facing adversity and the chance encounters along the road and in the elements.
Before I embarked on my own bike trips, I dreamed a lot about them—from the Atacama to the Gobi, along the Mekong, and not forgetting France. And now, these 130 pages every quarter keep those dreamy vibes alive through stories written in the most beautiful prose.
I’ll stop here because it might sound like I’m advertising, but if you don’t know *200*, I invite you to discover it. It’ll give you wings for the most incredible challenges or simply reinforce your desire for slow rides with your eyes open to others and nature.
A little news to wrap up: Axel Carion and a friend just broke the record for crossing South America from Colombia to Ushuaia in 59 days. On its own, that doesn’t mean much, but I can’t help it—it makes me dream. You should see how he talks about it, the flashes of that wild nature he’s stored away: a snowstorm at Paso Jama and the surreal sight of the suddenly snow-covered Licancabur!
Luc PS: The magazine is called *200* because a day’s ride starts at 200 km—well, I’ve never done a ride like that since my longest was 167 km (with 18 kg of luggage, mind you), but why not one day? The magazine will explain how to tackle your first 200, and then the question in conclusion: when will you do your first 300?😏
Heinz Stucke has passed away.
He never stopped traveling the world since 1962.
So sad.
https://www.facebook.com/heinzstucke
https://www.facebook.com/heinzstucke
hello fellow cycling enthusiasts
here’s a travel journal of the cycling tour through the Rhône-Alpes Auvergne region by Claudio
zouli
it was the plan
http://cbandiera.free.fr/parcours/auvergne-Ralpes/
the trip was completed story being posted online soon 1100 km in 11 days beautiful and varied regions
claudio

the trip was completed story being posted online soon 1100 km in 11 days beautiful and varied regions
claudio

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I’m planning to cycle from Morlaix to Brest (via Roscoff and the V45 coastal route). We’ll start riding on August 16th for 13 days (with stops for island visits, surfing, etc.). Is there a lot of traffic at this time of year? I’ve got two kids, 11 and 13, and we don’t like riding in the middle of cars (we’ve already done the Vélomaritime—Caen to Cherbourg—the Loire route from Orléans to Saumur, the Vélodyssée from Nantes to Royans, and the canals like the Nivernais and Bourgogne, where there were plenty of bike-only lanes, which isn’t the case on this route).
Thanks for your help if you’ve already done this route in late August! Virginie
Hi there,
I’ve got my flight ticket sorted—departing in mid-November and returning in mid-March. I’ll arrive in Santiago and leave from Buenos Aires. I’ve already been to southern Argentina, specifically Torres del Paine National Park, and I’d love to go back to do the full W trek (I only did the shorter version last time). I also want to do some hiking and maybe even tackle a summit. I climb and occasionally do some mountaineering, so I’ll definitely be going with a guide.
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I saw there are lakes in Argentina too.
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I’ve got my flight ticket sorted—departing in mid-November and returning in mid-March. I’ll arrive in Santiago and leave from Buenos Aires. I’ve already been to southern Argentina, specifically Torres del Paine National Park, and I’d love to go back to do the full W trek (I only did the shorter version last time). I also want to do some hiking and maybe even tackle a summit. I climb and occasionally do some mountaineering, so I’ll definitely be going with a guide.
I plan to start around Temuco in Chile, with the idea of heading toward the lakes, then taking the Carretera Austral. I’m not sure if I’ll go all the way to Ushuaia—it’s supposed to not be *that* worth it, except for the bragging rights of saying you’ve been to the end of the world.
I saw there are lakes in Argentina too.
I don’t have a precise itinerary, but what I’d love is, once I reach the southernmost point of my trip, to take a mini-cruise to see some wildlife. Any tips for that?
What kind of sleeping bag did you take? Is a 0°C (32°F) one enough? And one last question: white gas stove or can I get by with my gas stove?
Nath
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I'm developing a free and open-source web app for planning walking and cycling trips (and even car trips). You can create a route by clicking directly on the map to add waypoints, and it can consist of multiple stages. The app provides tools to edit the stages and the overall route, and to display useful information (distances, altitudes, and elevation changes). A relief profile can be shown as a graph for a specific stage or the entire route.
Once the route is ready, it can be exported as a GPX file, which can then be used with a GPS or a mobile navigation app.
The app is built in JavaScript and runs entirely in the web browser. It uses the Leaflet library and several OpenStreetMap-based services. Initially developed for my personal needs (I enjoy hiking and cycle touring), I’d be happy to share it with anyone who might find it useful. It’s free to use, doesn’t require an account, and the source code is available.
Source code: https://github.com/patricklmarie/GPX-Route-Planner Online demo: https://patricklmarie.github.io/GPX-Route-Planner/
Once the route is ready, it can be exported as a GPX file, which can then be used with a GPS or a mobile navigation app.
The app is built in JavaScript and runs entirely in the web browser. It uses the Leaflet library and several OpenStreetMap-based services. Initially developed for my personal needs (I enjoy hiking and cycle touring), I’d be happy to share it with anyone who might find it useful. It’s free to use, doesn’t require an account, and the source code is available.
Source code: https://github.com/patricklmarie/GPX-Route-Planner Online demo: https://patricklmarie.github.io/GPX-Route-Planner/
After testing it for three years across various modes of transport, I’m sharing this video of a bike packing case. It’s made from recycled cardboard and shrink-wrapped, with adjustable thickness and added bubble wrap depending on the level of protection you want.
Installing spacers at the fork and chainstays makes the packaging compact. With the fifteen-odd euros for shrink-wrapping at the airport, this case travels really well.
https://youtu.be/_GDJi-GqmkM
- Low bulk (1.10m x 0.70m x 0.25m for a large frame), it fits vertically in train luggage compartments and the total dimensions (x+y+z) don’t exceed 2.40m.
- Two carrying solutions for public transport and easy handling by airport staff (no more tears in the cardboard from openings).
- Discreet packaging when dealing with bus drivers and train conductors, as it looks like an ordinary parcel.
- No need to return to the starting point to retrieve the case from your outbound trip, which you’d otherwise have to store somewhere, or deal with a bulky cover to pack in your panniers.
- You can still check tire pressure through the plastic film without damaging the packaging too much.
Drawbacks: Around 3 hours for this lengthy and meticulous process—removing the wheels, pedals, handlebars, and derailleur without misaligning them, then securing all components to the frame.
If you get a chance to test it, send me your feedback for future improvements.


Can you take an electric bike on trains in Austria, Germany, and Switzerland?
Hi there, I’m planning a cross-Canada bike trip, and I’ve got a question that might seem silly, but could someone tell me how to pack a bike (in a box, with a fragile sticker... I don’t know) for a flight? Thanks in advance!
Hi everyone,
This summer, we’re planning to cycle along the EV 19 that follows the Meuse River from Langres all the way to Rotterdam. My question is about getting back to Nantes. Do any of you know what the best return option might be? I’d love to hear about your experiences. I saw that FlixBus doesn’t take bikes. By train, I think it’s possible but would involve multiple local trains. We were also wondering if there’s a boat from Rotterdam to Saint-Nazaire that could take passengers with bikes.
Any tips or experiences you can share would be really helpful—thanks in advance! Have a great evening
This summer, we’re planning to cycle along the EV 19 that follows the Meuse River from Langres all the way to Rotterdam. My question is about getting back to Nantes. Do any of you know what the best return option might be? I’d love to hear about your experiences. I saw that FlixBus doesn’t take bikes. By train, I think it’s possible but would involve multiple local trains. We were also wondering if there’s a boat from Rotterdam to Saint-Nazaire that could take passengers with bikes.
Any tips or experiences you can share would be really helpful—thanks in advance! Have a great evening
I’ve gotten used to crossing Europe by bus to return by bike.
It was really convenient to take the bike without having to disassemble it.
But FlixBus no longer accepts bikes...
What alternatives do you know about?
Thanks.
Hi there,
I’m planning to ride the Dutch section of the EuroVelo 19, from Maastricht to Rotterdam.
Since it’s too complicated to bring my bike on the train, I’m looking to rent one locally.
I’d love any tips or bike rental shop recommendations—I’m struggling to find options even in Rotterdam.
The plan is to rent in Rotterdam, take the train to Maastricht with the bike, then cycle back to Rotterdam.
Thanks in advance for any advice or suggestions!
Nath
Coming soon:
https://www.Biclou.com/parcours/durance/
Starting from Faverges: 900 km over 9 days

Here’s the detailed Durance route starting from Briançon

Here’s the detailed Durance route starting from Briançon

Hi there,
I’m planning to build a new touring bike. I want to prioritize lightness. That said, I’m tempted by a suspension fork that could offer some comfort on rougher roads. The recent appearance of gravel suspension forks on the market might meet my needs—at least on paper. I’m particularly considering the RockShox Rudy Ultimate XPLR fork. Unlike MTB forks, its travel is short: either 30 mm or 40 mm. It weighs 1400 g, which is 400/500 g more than a steel fork.
Any thoughts or real-world feedback on this?
I’m also wondering about the durability of magnesium (lower leg) for long-distance bike touring. And what’s the impact of skipping the manufacturer-recommended maintenance every 50 and 200 hours? That’s bound to happen on a long trip unless you carry extra gear. More generally, how reliable are these kinds of forks?
Thanks in advance
I’m planning to build a new touring bike. I want to prioritize lightness. That said, I’m tempted by a suspension fork that could offer some comfort on rougher roads. The recent appearance of gravel suspension forks on the market might meet my needs—at least on paper. I’m particularly considering the RockShox Rudy Ultimate XPLR fork. Unlike MTB forks, its travel is short: either 30 mm or 40 mm. It weighs 1400 g, which is 400/500 g more than a steel fork.
Any thoughts or real-world feedback on this?
I’m also wondering about the durability of magnesium (lower leg) for long-distance bike touring. And what’s the impact of skipping the manufacturer-recommended maintenance every 50 and 200 hours? That’s bound to happen on a long trip unless you carry extra gear. More generally, how reliable are these kinds of forks?
Thanks in advance
Hi there!
I’m making an exception and creating a separate post this time, since it’s all about France. In May, we spent a week in Provence, specifically in the Luberon, exploring the cycling routes *Autour du Luberon à Vélo*, the *Véloroute du Calavon* (part of EuroVelo 8), and the shorter *Les Ocres à Vélo* route. Together, they gave us an amazing journey through rolling hills, vineyards, lavender fields still green in spring, and some of the most stunning landscapes in southern France.

It was, of course, the perched villages that impressed us the most. We visited Gordes, Roussillon, Bonnieux, Lacoste, Lourmarin, Ménerbes, Oppède-le-Vieux, Cucuron, and Lauris. Many of them are among the most beautiful villages in Provence, and it’s hard not to agree with that reputation.




One interesting point is the route of EuroVelo 8 in this part of the region. The official path mainly follows the old railway line of the *Véloroute du Calavon*, which is very comfortable and safe. But in our opinion, cyclists traveling EuroVelo 8 around the Mediterranean would discover even more treasures if the route passed through villages like Bonnieux, Lacoste, or Oppède-le-Vieux.


We were also pleasantly surprised by how safe cycling felt. Most of the route takes small local roads, but traffic is light, drivers are respectful, and road design really takes cyclists into account. It’s one of those places where you can ride peacefully even without separated bike lanes.



Our full story:
Around Luberon by bicycle - the most beautiful villages of Provence
You can also find all our cycling travel stories on the forum:
Cycling Thread - Europe’s most beautiful bike routes
S.
I’m making an exception and creating a separate post this time, since it’s all about France. In May, we spent a week in Provence, specifically in the Luberon, exploring the cycling routes *Autour du Luberon à Vélo*, the *Véloroute du Calavon* (part of EuroVelo 8), and the shorter *Les Ocres à Vélo* route. Together, they gave us an amazing journey through rolling hills, vineyards, lavender fields still green in spring, and some of the most stunning landscapes in southern France.

It was, of course, the perched villages that impressed us the most. We visited Gordes, Roussillon, Bonnieux, Lacoste, Lourmarin, Ménerbes, Oppède-le-Vieux, Cucuron, and Lauris. Many of them are among the most beautiful villages in Provence, and it’s hard not to agree with that reputation.




One interesting point is the route of EuroVelo 8 in this part of the region. The official path mainly follows the old railway line of the *Véloroute du Calavon*, which is very comfortable and safe. But in our opinion, cyclists traveling EuroVelo 8 around the Mediterranean would discover even more treasures if the route passed through villages like Bonnieux, Lacoste, or Oppède-le-Vieux.


We were also pleasantly surprised by how safe cycling felt. Most of the route takes small local roads, but traffic is light, drivers are respectful, and road design really takes cyclists into account. It’s one of those places where you can ride peacefully even without separated bike lanes.



Our full story:
Around Luberon by bicycle - the most beautiful villages of Provence
You can also find all our cycling travel stories on the forum:
Cycling Thread - Europe’s most beautiful bike routes
S.
Hi there, we’re a group of 4 cyclists looking to get from Treviso in Italy to Munich with our 4 non-folding bikes. It seems complicated! Are there any solutions? Thanks so much.
Hi, I'm looking for a Pino tandem bike for sale in Quebec and I can't find any. Does anyone have any info, please? Thanks a bunch!
Hi there, we’re planning a Munich to Venice bike trip at the end of June 2026. Getting back from Venice to Toulouse by train with 4 bikes isn’t straightforward. What return options have others who’ve done this trip chosen? Any tips or great deals would be much appreciated. Thanks a bunch! !
Hi everyone,
Happy owner of a Pegasus Estremo bike with a Rohloff hub, which is giving me trouble with the SF11-NCX-FT-E-LITE 700C TS 300/0 fork (serial number TD01329060). It’s starting to show its age, and I’d like to repair it to extend the life of my beloved bike.
The suspension is gone, and there’s an oil leak from the seals.
Does anyone know how to repair it? Where can I find parts that are about fifteen years old? Or where to find an identical replacement fork? Just to clarify, the Magura HS11 brakes are mounted using Firm Tech, meaning they’re on pivots behind the fork, facing the frame.
Thanks for your help! Have a great day, Alexandre
The suspension is gone, and there’s an oil leak from the seals.
Does anyone know how to repair it? Where can I find parts that are about fifteen years old? Or where to find an identical replacement fork? Just to clarify, the Magura HS11 brakes are mounted using Firm Tech, meaning they’re on pivots behind the fork, facing the frame.
Thanks for your help! Have a great day, Alexandre
Hi, I'd like to know if anyone has done this route recently or has reliable info.
Does the track exist, and most importantly, is there sand (for biking)?
Any info is welcome.
Cheers,
diego ambilobe: mangaoka, manondro, ramena vohemar sambava: masondrono, tanambao
diego ambilobe: mangaoka, manondro, ramena vohemar sambava: masondrono, tanambao
Hi there,
New to bike touring,
I’d love to start with a section of the Via Rhona to explore and share (route to be decided).
Looking forward to exchanging tips!
hey everyone,
I’m landing in Madagascar with a buddy before the end of April 2026. We’re planning to bike around for about twenty days or so. We don’t have a specific goal other than exploring the country and meeting the locals.
Ideally, we’d prefer a loop route starting from Antananarivo with a good chunk of it along the coast. On the bike side, we’re used to riding 6 to 8 hours a day, depending on the needs, encounters, and mood 😉 Any feedback or tips from trips around this length?
Thanks in advance, Jérôme
I’m landing in Madagascar with a buddy before the end of April 2026. We’re planning to bike around for about twenty days or so. We don’t have a specific goal other than exploring the country and meeting the locals.
Ideally, we’d prefer a loop route starting from Antananarivo with a good chunk of it along the coast. On the bike side, we’re used to riding 6 to 8 hours a day, depending on the needs, encounters, and mood 😉 Any feedback or tips from trips around this length?
Thanks in advance, Jérôme
A big thank you to Lazarou for all the info you share in this forum!
I'm passionate about Morocco, which I cycled through back in 2009.
Last year, my wife and I explored the High Atlas by tandem. Completely smitten, we're heading back in April (Anti Atlas) and May (High and Middle Atlas), still on our tandem.
Do you have any info on the track between Amezri and Ali Ait Nito? Are the river crossings in the Tessaout still there? It's not easy to navigate with a loaded tandem... especially if the river level is high due to this year's heavy snowmelt!
Thanks in advance for any tips you might have, and best wishes for health in this new year!
Thanks in advance for any tips you might have, and best wishes for health in this new year!
A shout-out to a cycling colleague from Savoie
Claudio specializes in the route of the Savoie lakes Here are his travels Between Bornes, Chartreuse, the Savoie foothills, and Dauphiné Five lakes: Léman, Annecy, Paladru, Aiguebelette, Bourget, not to mention a few ponds along the way Plenty of accommodation options: camping, hotels, and more...
A lovely route not far from his place Rural and quite peaceful A road cycling route created by Serge B...
N+1 reconnaissance trips on a loop of about 400 km This way, he avoids the SNCF and its troubles http://cbandiera.free.fr/vv/lacs-savoie/recos.php

The latest reconnaissance trip from April to May 2026 http://cbandiera.free.fr/recits/2026-grenoble-H/index.php

Claudio specializes in the route of the Savoie lakes Here are his travels Between Bornes, Chartreuse, the Savoie foothills, and Dauphiné Five lakes: Léman, Annecy, Paladru, Aiguebelette, Bourget, not to mention a few ponds along the way Plenty of accommodation options: camping, hotels, and more...
A lovely route not far from his place Rural and quite peaceful A road cycling route created by Serge B...
N+1 reconnaissance trips on a loop of about 400 km This way, he avoids the SNCF and its troubles http://cbandiera.free.fr/vv/lacs-savoie/recos.php


The latest reconnaissance trip from April to May 2026 http://cbandiera.free.fr/recits/2026-grenoble-H/index.php

First of all... happy New Year! Wishing you great roads in 2017!
I’ve been traveling for a few years now with a high-quality mountain bike, but it’s equipped with hydraulic disc brakes. I live (pedal) with the constant worry of a breakdown (leak, air bubble, heat causing the fluid to...). My bike mechanic tells me it’s impossible to switch them out for V-brakes.
What do you all think? Am I taking a big risk continuing (alone) with these brakes? Thanks in advance for your great tips!
Hi everyone,
First post here to share a quick recap of our west-to-east bike trip along Algeria’s coast in January 2025. It was just the two of us—my partner and I—with French passports and not a word of Arabic. No friends or welcoming hosts in the country.
Under those conditions, we’d strongly advise against going.
Our original plan was to follow the coast from Algiers to Tunis. We ended up cycling from Algiers to Béjaia, then took the train from Béjaia to Annaba (with a stop in Constantine), and finally biked to the border. We were tailed by police the whole way—whether on our bikes, on the train, or even on foot while exploring towns. On top of that, we couldn’t wild camp and were limited to the few state-approved hotels that accept foreigners. Under those circumstances, connecting with locals was especially tough.
With such an omnipresent and intrusive police presence, we’d definitely recommend against this destination for bike touring. A really sad situation that completely cuts you off from the local population...
We’d been warned, we went to check it out, and we weren’t disappointed!
You’ve been warned.
First post here to share a quick recap of our west-to-east bike trip along Algeria’s coast in January 2025. It was just the two of us—my partner and I—with French passports and not a word of Arabic. No friends or welcoming hosts in the country.
Under those conditions, we’d strongly advise against going.
Our original plan was to follow the coast from Algiers to Tunis. We ended up cycling from Algiers to Béjaia, then took the train from Béjaia to Annaba (with a stop in Constantine), and finally biked to the border. We were tailed by police the whole way—whether on our bikes, on the train, or even on foot while exploring towns. On top of that, we couldn’t wild camp and were limited to the few state-approved hotels that accept foreigners. Under those circumstances, connecting with locals was especially tough.
With such an omnipresent and intrusive police presence, we’d definitely recommend against this destination for bike touring. A really sad situation that completely cuts you off from the local population...
We’d been warned, we went to check it out, and we weren’t disappointed!
You’ve been warned.
Hi there,
I’m planning the route to cycle from Lille to Nordkapp with my partner.
Duration: 3 months, from May 1st to July 31st, 2026.
In the attached details below, I need to add some "non-riding" days (rest days, basically).
So I’m looking to "shorten" the trip by taking ferries or trains for some stretches. Which areas could I skip?
Thanks in advance for your great tips.
Have a good evening.
https://www.komoot.com/fr-fr/collection/4023980/-lille-cap-nord-1er-mai-au-31-juillet-2026?ref=collection