The Vélo’v is a popular component of Lyon’s public transportation system. Launched several years ago, this public bicycle sharing program has gained so much approval that Paris soon adopted it. Finding, renting and returning Vélo’v bicycles only require a few simple steps.
Finding a Vélo’v Bicycle Station
The first step is to locate a Vélo’v station nearest to where you are. This can be done quickly on the Vélo’v program website or with a Vélo’v map, available at all public transportation agencies, the TCL, of Lyon. There are roughly 350 Vélo’v bike stations throughout Lyon. The bikes' bright red color makes them easy to spot.
Before committing to a specific bike, do a quick check on key parts: brakes, tires and chain. The city performs regular check-ups and maintenance routines on these publicly shared bicycles, but a little caution cannot hurt.
How to Rent a Vélo’v Bike
Get a Vélo’v card at any Vélo’v station, a metallic color machine. A one-day card costs €1.00. A week long card costs €3.00. Long-term Vélo’v rentals require formal registration.
Flash the card before the optical reader, located on the screen of the Vélo’v machine. Enter your personal Vélo’v code, which you get to choose. Hit “Prendre un vélo” or “Take a bicycle”. Choose a bicycle. The number on the bicycle locking post is the number for the bike.
Wait a few seconds for the validation process to complete. You then have 45 seconds to take out your bike from the locking post. Press the button on the bike locking post or squeeze the brakes and pull the bike towards you.
How to Return a Vélo’v Bike
You DO NOT need to return your Vélo’v bike to the station where you have rented it in the first place. You can return your Vélo’v bike to any Vélo’v station. Simply find an unoccupied bike post and push your bike into the locking slot. When the bike gives out a beeping sound and its lights flash, it means that you have returned it correctly. That’s all you need to do.
Cost of Using Vélo’v Bicycles
The first 30 minutes is free. The cost for 30 to 90 minutes of usage is €1.00. Each hour thereafter costs €2.00. Remember that you can borrow Vélo’v bikes as often as you like over the course of a day or week, depending on your card. So with a little planning, you can use the Vélo’v all day long for as low as €1.00. Many locals do that.
The Vélo’v allows one to see Lyon is a relaxing pace and intimate way. It is also an excellent option for those who seek a little change from conventional modes of transport in the city. On your next trip to Lyon, allow yourself to be a local and get around the city on a red bike.
