Quimper includes several features to ensure safe and easy travel around the city by bike.

80km of bike-friendly routes are in place throughout the city, including cycle lanes and tracks, mixed bus and cycle lanes, 30kmph zones and pedestrian areas. This network grows each year and the objective is to achieve 200km of safe lanes.

Provisions for cyclists

Cycle lanes

In Quimper the cycle lanes are marked out at the side of the road by an intermittent white line. Cyclists must stay in lane.

Route Connections

Route connections are recommended when changing between 2 cycle lanes

These consist of intersections where the traffic has been moderated to allow greater access via the slope of the road.

Mixed pavements and pedestrian routes allowing bikes.

Many roads as well as certain pavements allow for both pedestrians and cyclists.

Pedestrians always have the right of way. Cyclists must adapt their behaviour in favour of pedestrians. They should not hesitate to put their feet down on the ground, or to ring a bell to alert others to their presence.

At crossroads cyclists must use the pedestrian crossings marked by bike symbols, respecting the road markings. These recommendations are also valid for pedestrian roads where cycling is allowed.

Dual flow bicycle traffic in 30 km zones

Dual flow traffic favours cycle use with shorter and more direct journeys, often avoiding intersections. Thanks to the continuity of the road system the city is now more accessible to cyclists.

"Give way to cyclist" at traffic lights.

It is possible for cyclists to turn right, or to go straight on whilst the lights are red. They must however give priority to cars and pedestrians whilst the lights are green. The red light therefore becomes a "give way" for cyclists.

Traffic light slipways

The slipway is a purpose built space in front of the car lane at traffic lights.

It allows cyclists to turn left with greater ease by placing themselves in front of the cars at the traffic lights.

Bicycle parking

600 bicycle parking spaces are spread across the city; these are made of U shaped arches fixed upside-down to the ground, allowing bikes to be attached to both sides.

The VéloQub

The VéloQub is a system of long-term rental aimed at those who wish to discover, or rediscover, bicycles as a mode of urban transport.

Cycling equipment

Compulsory equipment needed for cycling on the road:

• a white lamp at the front and a red lamp at the back,
• 4 reflectors: 1 red at the back, 1 orange at the front and one on each pedal,
• reflective bands inserted in the wheel spokes,
• a warning bell or horn,
• two working brakes, front and back.

Strongly recommended equipment:

• a battery operated light that functions when the bike is stopped,
• a safety reflector arm,
• a good quality bike lock,
• gloves and helmets,
• light coloured or high visibility clothing.

Children under 5 years old can be transported on a bike seat with foot rests and safety straps.

Good road practices

• Position yourself correctly on the road, leaving space to the right between yourself and the pavement. Take all the space that you need.
• Don't hug the pavement or ride too close to parked cars. You may have to swerve to avoid a pothole or an opening car door.
• Avoid sudden changes in direction and above all do not hesitate to use hand signals when turning, especially to the left where you should plan the movement early enough to position yourself in the left hand lane.
• Generally speaking, anticipate your change of direction before approaching corners and crossroads.
• Watch the traffic before planning any manoeuvre, taking bends in the road, or before setting off.
• And of course, respect the Highway Code: stop signs, traffic lights.....

Correctly maintain your bicycle: brakes, tyres, chain and lights should be regularly checked.