Speed, cost, excesses… How fatbiking “exploded” in Paris

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Their silhouette does not go unnoticed on cycle paths. Wide wheels, U-shaped handlebars and a massive frame, the fatbikes have made their spectacular entrance onto the Parisian asphalt. Originally created to cross the steep paths of Scandinavian roads, these mountain bikes (mountain bikes) are increasingly attracting city dwellers who want to make the most of their travel time.

Up to €400 in aid

In the capital, the phenomenon has been growing since the introduction of state aid for the purchase of bicycles in 2019. “Demand has exploded“, confesses Arié Benayoun, sales director of the WegoBoard brand, which has several points of sale in Paris. Customers know that they can buy a high-performance bike for hundreds of euros.”

For five years, Île-de-France-mobilités (IDFM) has been awarding bonuses for the purchase of an electrically assisted vehicle (EAV) ranging from up to €400. A not insignificant sum to acquire a fatbike, the prices of which are, on average, higher than a thousand euros. The regulatory authority for public transport in the Paris region estimates that “84% of the aid allocated” concerns electric bikes.

The fatbike fits into this scope. Its success is directly linked to the development non-polluting means of transport. But not only that. Its functional use is also very appreciated by delivery drivers. “We have a lot of customers who work for Uber Eats or Deliveroo,” confides Arié Benayoun. “The big tires allow for a better grip and, therefore, to circulate regardless of the weather conditions”.

An observation shared by Bakary, a delivery driver for a platform. “The wheels grip the asphalt well. Unlike a standard vehicle, I risk less fall when it rains,” he explains. Reinforced shock absorber systems provide increased comfort, not to mention the presence of an efficient braking system.

The development of these bikes is not exempt from the regulations governing electrically assisted vehicles. Fatbikes must not exceed 25km/h and be equipped with a motor of less than 250 watts. Beyond that, the VAE is considered a “moped”. A category that requires registration. As a result, it avoids the premiums paid by IDFM. And breaks the law.

Abuses pointed out

The problem arises acutely in urban areaand especially abroad. The Netherlandsthe authorities are struggling to find a solution to these abuses, as reported by Le International Mail in an article dated September 12, 2024. Minors, often not wearing helmets, are driving at unauthorized speeds, and sometimes not equipped with helmets. Behaviors that cause accidents.

On social media, fatbikes are criticized by some critics, who point out their presence on cycle paths in Paris. “Fatbikes and other electric gadgets that pretend to be bikes,” one of them points out. “There are plenty of fatbikes in Paris, mostly unbridled who have no place on cycle paths,” castigates another.

“All our bikes are approved,” assures the sales director of WegoBoard. Contacted, the deputy mayor of Paris in charge of transport and mobility, David Belliard, did not respond to our requests.

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