Paris, a model city for its bike-friendly amenities? Yes, the capital has that image of paradise for urban cyclists, but that hasn’t always been the case! An exhibition at the Pavillon de l’Arsenal sheds light on the history and place of cycling in Paname. Spoiler alert: it hasn’t always been simple!
The bicycle, an increasingly popular mode of transport in Paris
You don’t have to be an expert on the petite reine and even less of an urbanist to testify to the changes Paris has undergone in recent years. Widened sidewalks, pedestrianized streets, reduced car traffic and multiplication of cycle lanes… Mild mobility, with cycling at the forefront, is on a roll!.
Parisians have indeed never been more likely to get on their bikes, and especially since the Covid. A study conducted by the Institut Paris Région estimated that in 2024, 11.2% of trips in the capital were made by bike (compared with 4% by car). Under the influence of several bicycle plans, the capital has now become an example to follow among others at global rank!
An exhibition on cycling in the capital
So, if Paris can lay claim to the title of “bike capital”, there was a time when two-wheelers weren’t so welcome! A free exhibition explores until 09/29 the place bicycles have occupied in the capital since the early 19th century. À Vélo, Paris Métropole 1818-2030 is the story of the bicycle’s pitfalls and triumphs.
With the help of archives (period photographs, press cuttings, posters or maps), the Pavillon de l’Arsenal succeeds in reconstructing this hectic history that spans more than two centuries and is still being written. Bicycle models (old draisienne, Vélib or cargo bike) are also presented to the public. Beyond the chronological narrative, it’s also the evolution of cycling practices, their impact on society and the urban landscape that is addressed in this exhibition.
Did you know that the bicycle virtually disappeared from Parisian streets in the 60s? That it was a strike movement that really signed the return of the bicycle to the capital? To find out more and discover other anecdotes, hop on a Vélib, your old bike or VAE and pedal to the Pavillon de l’Arsenal.
À Vélo, Paris Métropole 1818-2030 – Until September 29, 2024
Au Pavillon de l’Arsenal
21, boulevard Morland
75004 Paris
More info at À Vélo, Paris Métropole 1818-2030
To read also: The most beautiful bike rides in Paris and the Paris region!