Bicycles (vélos) have high status in France, where cyclists are given respect both on the roads and as customers at restaurants and hotels. In addition, local authorities are actively promoting cycling, not only with city cycle lanes, but comprehensive networks linking rural areas (frequently utilizing disused roads and railways). Most large towns have well-stocked retail and repair shops, where parts are normally cheaper than in Britain or the US. However, if you're using a foreign-made bike with non-standard metric wheels, it's a good idea to carry spare tyres.The train network runs various schemes for cyclists, all of them covered by the free leaflet Guide du Train et du Vélo, available from most stations. Trains marked with a bicycle in the timetable and a few TGVs (listed in the above booklet) allow you to take a bike free in the luggage van as long as there's space. Otherwise, you can take your dismantled bike, packed in a carrier, on TGVs and other trains with sufficiently large luggage racks. Another option is to send your bike parcelled up as registered luggage for a fee of €33.30; delivery should take two days, bearing in mind that the service doesn't operate at weekends. Eurostar allows you to take your bicycle as part of your baggage allowance provided it's dismantled and stored in a special bike bag, and the dimensions don't exceed 120cm by 90cm. Otherwise it needs to be sent on unaccompanied, with a guaranteed arrival of 24 hours (you can register it up to ten days in advance; book through Esprit Europe tel 08705/850 850); the fee is £20 one way. Ferries either take bikes free (though you must remember to register it) or charge a maximum of £5 one way, while airlines such as British Airways and Air France also carry bikes free – contact the airlines first however. Bikes – usually mountain bikes (vélos tout terrain) – are often available to rent from campsites and hostels, as well as from specialist cycle shops and some tourist offices and train stations from around €10 to €15 per day. The bikes are often not insured, however, and you will be presented with the bill for its replacement if it's stolen or damaged; check your travel insurance policy for cover. As for maps, a minimum requirement is the IGN 1:100,000 series – the smallest scale that carries contours. In the UK, the Cyclists' Touring Club (tel 0870/873 0060, www.ctc.org.uk), can suggest routes and supply advice for members (£28.50 a year or £17.50 for unemployed, and £10 for under 26 years). They run a particularly good insurance scheme.
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