Overview of bicycle electrification in Montpellier

Subsidies for electric bikes and kits in Montpellier

The city of Montpellier Méditerranée Métropole supports the ecological and solidarity-based transition of its residents. This translates into assistance for the purchase of a VAE, commonly referred to as ” universal assistance”. Coming into force on November 1, 2020, it applies not only to new electric bicycles, but also to second-hand products. Committed to an ecological approach, the subsidy extends up to the purchase of an electric kit.

Universal assistance: amount and eligibility conditions

The amount of the subsidy is set at 500 euros for the purchase of the equipment, limited to 50% of its price. The universal subsidy is open to all residents of Montpellier who have reached the age of majority, regardless of their financial resources. To qualify, products must be purchased from a store located in one of the 31 communes that make up the department. Only equipment purchased on or after November 1, 2020 is eligible.

The VAE purchase subsidy can be combined with other State subsidies, up to a maximum of 1,150 euros. Nearly 45,000 residents have benefited from the universal VAE purchase subsidy of 500 euros up to its closing date of December 31, 2023. From now on, the subsidy will be revised to 200 euros for the purchase of a second-hand electric bike or an electrification kit. Added to this is a local subsidy of 30 euros for bike repairs.

Special case: people with disabilities

For people with reduced mobility, the amount of 500 euros is maintained until December 31, 2024. It is in addition to other subsidies designed to support their project to purchase an adapted VAE, such as :

– The “3rd electric wheel” device;

– The Hérault Handi-Vélo voucher.

The electric bike can be purchased from a store outside the area.

What assistance is available for professionals and companies?

Professionals working in the Montpellier Méditerranée Métropole area are also eligible for assistance with the purchase of a new electrically-assisted cargo bike or scooter. The same applies to the purchase of vehicle safety accessories: helmet, lighting system, anti-theft device, reflective clothing. In force since July 1, 2021, the aid scheme for the purchase of an electrified bicycle will continue until December 31, 2024. The amount is estimated at 50% of the purchase price of the bike, up to a maximum of 1,000 euros.

How can I benefit from electric bike assistance in Montpellier?

Grant applications are made online via a form available on the official Montpellier Metropole website. This must be accompanied by a letter of commitment not to resell the electrified bike for the next 3 years. Other documents may be added to the application:

– Copy of applicant’s ID: CIN, passport ;

– Bank details (RIB) in applicant’s name ;

– Approval certificate for electrified bicycles ;

– Purchase invoice for bike registered in applicant’s name ;

– Declaration of honor to receive only one grant per user;

– Proof of address for individuals and Kbis extract for businesses.

How to transform your classic bike with an electric kit?

A conventional bike is electrified once the conversion kit has been installed. In general, it consists of the following components:

– An engine

Located at the bottom bracket, on a wheel or under the saddle, it’s the key component of the system. It gives you a helping hand when pedaling seems too strenuous, especially when climbing.

– A battery

This component stores the energy needed to power the pedal or wheel motor. Our Syklo online store offers a choice of two capacities:

o 250 Wh for a range of around 60 km ;

o 630 Wh for up to 160 km.

Mileage varies according to weather conditions and terrain.

– A controller

This equipment is used to manage the various device parameters: pedaling sensor, assistance level and cables.

– A display

This is an on-board computer with an LCD screen for easy adjustment of the electrical systems. It also displays operating information such as speed and battery level.

Why convert your bike to electric?

In Montpellier Méditerranée Métropole, as elsewhere in France, the VAE is on a roll. However, its purchase price of around 1,800 euros for a mid-range electric bike is a brake on the ecological transition. That’s why many are turning to electrifying their old bikes. This option has many advantages, starting with the possibility of keeping the bike you’ve become attached to. It’s also an opportunity to give your old bike a new lease of life.

Available at prices ranging from 400 to 1,000 euros, this alternative mobility solution saves you money. It offers an experience similar to that of an electric bike, including the ability to ride effortlessly. To top it all off, you’ll be contributing to sustainable development by giving it priority over carbon-intensive means of transport.

How to install the bike electrification kit?

You can install your VAE electric kit yourself, just as you would a piece of furniture. In fact, models have become simpler over the years, and now have 2 cables instead of 4. Installation can take several hours, and requires some DIY skills. It’s worth noting that a self-built electric bike is not type-approved. To be covered by insurance in the event of an accident, it’s best to entrust assembly to an approved installer. Visit Syklo.fr to find an installer near you.

Which electrification kit should I choose for which type of bike?

Given the wide range of products on the market, choosing the right electrical kit seems complicated. It must take two main criteria into account:

Type of bike

With the democratization of EABs, electric kits are now compatible with 99% of conventional bicycles on the road. To make the choice easier, manufacturers classify them by bike type: urban bike, road bike, mountain bike and VTC. The Syklo team carries out a compatibility study, checking a number of factors: space for the battery, quality of the transmission and brakes, bottom bracket, among others. If your bike is found to be compatible, we help you choose the right model for your intended use. If this is not the case, we will advise you on the necessary modifications and draw up a quotation accordingly.

Engine power

It’s true that current regulations in France set the power rating of electric-assist bicycles at 250 W. However, you can opt for a higher-performance product for a high-speed cycling experience.

–
TSDZ2 250W
to comply with legislation

Electrically-assisted bicycles are authorized on public roads only if their power is less than 250 W. Article R. 311-1 of the Highway Code also sets a speed limit of 25 km/h. Our TSDZ2 250W central motor kit at 550 euros meets this requirement. So it’s ideal for claiming the subsidy and enjoying sufficient pedal assistance.

– TSDZ8 500 W for longer, faster rides

If you want to enhance your cycling experience, opt for the 500 W TSDZ8 electric kit. With a higher torque sensor of up to 110 Nm, it’s more responsive and powerful, ideal for tackling steep hills and difficult terrain. What’s more, you can reach speeds of up to 45 km/h. Note that an electric bike equipped with such a motor is for private use only.

–
DM01 1000W
for even more performance

Step up a gear with our complete DM01 1000 W motorization system. It offers you the ultimate in performance, with a top speed in excess of 45 km/h. Its torque sensor automatically adjusts assistance according to the force applied to the pedals. This helps you save energy and gain in autonomy.

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