Electric bicycles have already conquered nearly one in five French people.
- Published on 01/09/2026 7:28
- Modified on 01/09/2026 7:34
Long regarded as a bike for seniors or a gadget reserved for affluent urbanites, the electric bike is transforming in France.
A vast study by Ifop shows that nearly two out of ten French people now own an electric bike. And its use far exceeds a simple Sunday stroll.
Is the electric assist bicycle (EAB) becoming a means of transportation like any other? A study conducted by Ifop among 3,003 representative individuals of the French population, from May 21 to May 29, 2026, illustrates how its image and usage are evolving.
According to the results analyzed by the Jean-Jaurès Foundation, nearly two out of ten French people now own an electric bike. And its owners do not limit their use to leisure activities: 42% use it for their commute.
Finding an EAB that suits your calves
The profile of its enthusiasts also holds some surprises. The EAB is often associated in collective imagination with the “young urban hipster.” In reality, its presence extends far beyond city centers and reaches peripheral areas as well.
Motivations also vary with age. Among those aged 65 and over, 45% highlight the ease of pedaling and the reduction of effort. Among those under 35, 28% place more importance on technology, equipment, various formats, and brands.
Another sign of satisfaction: 80% of surveyed owners would recommend the electric bike to their acquaintances.
However, not everything is perfect. The purchase and maintenance costs, as well as the lack of suitable cycling infrastructure, remain significant barriers.
But with approximately 600,000 EABs sold each year in France, the electric bike is clearly no longer a niche market. It is becoming a permanent fixture in the landscape of French mobility.
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This page is translated from the original post "Le vélo électrique a déjà conquis près d’un Français sur cinq" in French.
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