In doing some research for my trip coming up in Paris, I found useful insight onto the Velib bikeshare program that I’m counting on for most of my trip there. Personally I would prefer a bicycle to borrow for the time I visit but I’m also not counting on knowing too many people to let me borrow their bike for a month. Perhaps some of you have input or knowledge of other bike share programs or rentals, please share it with me!
What about buying a cheapo on Craigslist?
If I remember correctly you need a chip and pin credit card to use the Velib bikes. Most US credit cards are not chip and pin….. Ask your bank if you can get one. Also make sure that your Debit card has a 4 digit pin. Anything longer or shorter can cause you problems…..
@kim, that's what i read too. thanks for the head up.
@ryan, perhaps i can rent one off of craigslist?
Hey, I checked JM's bike and it's not as big as I thought. Maybe it could work out. Also, I could probably check bikes that are at my parents' (keeping in mind size issue).
Keep me posted if you find something to rent or buy …
See you soon.
@elodie, thanks so much for looking out for me!
Using Velib was so fun and easy! That is, once French-fluent Trisha managed to figure out the system and get us passes. And only an American Express card would work. Have you seen T's post about our Velib experience?
http://letsgorideabike.com/blog/2010/11/the-freedom-of-velib/
If you have more questions, I'm sure she'd be happy to discuss via email, LGRAB [at] letsgorideabike.com.