New bicycle rules take effect December 13

The French national railway company SNCF is introducing stricter rules for traveling with bicycles on trains, starting December 13, as reported by Le Courrier Picard. These changes aim to improve safety and passenger flow on board.

Free bicycle travel with conditions

Passengers can still travel with bicycles for free on Transilien and TER trains, provided the bikes are foldable, disassembled, and stored in designated areas. Folded bikes must not exceed 90 x 130 x 50 cm, or be transported in a special bag. There are also time restrictions, such as before 6:30 AM and after 7:30 PM, and during certain hours in the day.

Fees and reservations for TGV Inoui

For TGV Inoui trains, passengers can bring non-folded bicycles but must reserve a seat when buying their ticket, paying 10 euros per bicycle per trip. This fee is reduced to 5 euros for Ouigo services. Folded or disassembled bikes must also meet size limits and be stored in designated areas.

Prohibited types of bicycles

SNCF explicitly bans certain types of bicycles, including lay-down, tricycles, cargo bikes, longtails, trailers, and bikes in boxes. The rules also prohibit recharging batteries of motorized devices like scooters or e-bikes on board, with fines up to 150 euros for violations.

Expanded restrictions starting December 13

From December 13, additional types of bicycles will be banned from trains. These include bikes longer than 185 cm or with tires wider than 6 cm, as well as fat bikes, three-wheeled bikes, hoverboards, and gyropods. These rules apply to TGV Inoui and Intercités services.

Reasons and criticism for the new rules

SNCF explains the changes are due to safety concerns and the need to maintain smooth passenger movement, which can affect train punctuality. However, the decision has faced criticism from user groups, who argue it complicates efforts to promote carbon-free transportation.

Fines for violating the rules

Travelers who do not follow the new baggage policies on TGV Inoui and Intercités trains risk fines ranging from 50 to 150 euros. These penalties apply to both non-compliant bicycles and excessive baggage.