Le Vélo Mad launches its electric bikes for rental

Following the launch of its new generation of electric-assist bikes, Le Vélo Mad offers its range through a long-term rental (LLD) scheme.

The brand Le Vélo Mad (formerly Mad in France) was founded in 2018 by Charles Hurtebize and Guillaume Adriansen. The two friends based their company in Rouen, a city passionate about shared mobility (pedestrian zones, TEOR rapid bus, metro, etc.). In 2022, their news is unprecedented, with a rental offer.

Le Vélo Mad… in France

The first-generation Vélo Mad bikes began their careers in 2019. The Sport and Urban models share many features, such as Brooks leather handlebars and saddle, a well-known equipment supplier. They differ by their frame design: the former has a traditional frame, while the latter features a more open structure.

Equipped with WTB tires and disc brakes, their electric motor delivers 45 Nm torque and is located on the rear hub, combined with a classic 10-speed derailleur transmission. The battery has a capacity of 375 Wh, providing approximately 50 km of range. The updates in the Sport 2 and Urban 2 models improved the frame design for seamless battery integration, now increased to 460 Wh with a 70 km range. They also feature a new Shimano 10-speed derailleur and a new color display.

As for the Sport+ and Sport+ Tour de France models launched in 2020 and 2021, they feature a more powerful motor with 80 Nm torque. Positioned centrally, it includes a torque sensor (compared to rotation sensors in other models). The TDF edition sports a specific livery with cycling race logos and a Berthoud saddle. All Vélo Mad bikes are manufactured at the French Cycles Factory in Machecoul (Loire-Atlantique).

6 models available

Le Vélo Mad is entering the long-term lease (LLD) world for e-bikes. Its electric bikes are offered with two contract options of 24 or 36 months, with a down payment of 10% corresponding to the purchase price.

They include “a €100 lock”, which is the Kryptonite 610 foldable lock, as well as insurance against breakage and theft costing between €159 and €209 per month, depending on the model. This does not include government subsidies of €200 or regional bonuses like Île-de-France’s €500.

The most affordable models are the Urban and first-generation Sport, still available in the catalog. Priced at €1,849 for outright purchase, they start at €60/month in a 2-year LLD or €69/month for 3 years. The second-generation Urban 2 and Sport 2 models bring the LLD price down to €64 over 24 months and €74/month over 36 months.

More upscale, there are also the Sport+ and Sport+ TDF editions, which are naturally more expensive. The former begins at €72/month, and the latter at €74/month.

In summary, the price of a 2-year rental is almost equivalent to the purchase price. Here’s a summary of the rates:

Is Vélo Mad less expensive in rental than Decathlon?

Does this new offering stand up against the giant Decathlon? Vélo Mad features bikes made in France, assembled on a smaller scale as well. Unsurprisingly, the prices for their LLD plans are higher.

At Decathlon, there are currently several models: Elops 120E, 900E, and 920E and 920E. The most comparable is the Elops 920E, with a central motor and 418 Wh battery. Priced at €1,599 before any promotion, it starts at €53/month for a 36-month lease or €65.60/month for 24 months.

The difference is that Decathlon replicates its offering via Decathlon Rent, with 3-month rentals and no commitment. The prices are less competitive: €55/month for the basic Elops 120E (with a 313 Wh battery and €899 purchase price) and notably €90/month for the 920E.

Also read: 2021 Bicycle Barometer: Which are the most bike-friendly cities?