Motorcycling in France

Tips for Motorcycle Holidays in France

Motorcycle holidays don’t have to be epic journeys down route 66 or riding across India; you can enjoy the thrill of biking abroad much closer to home by taking a trip through France.

Whether your passion is the latest touring bike, a vintage classic or an old favourite you’ve spent hours tinkering with, France has the fantastic scenery, quiet roads and friendly people that will make your biking holiday really special.

Roger Nicholls, owner of 3 holiday cottages in Brittany and motorcycle holidays specialist, gives us his top tips and words of advice for a perfect biking holiday in France.

Rules of the road in France

Motorbiking in FranceThere are some important differences when driving in France, most notably the fact that you need to drive on the other side of the carriageway! This can be harder to remember for bikers than car drivers so many choose to tie a ribbon or put some tape on their left hand mirror as a visual reminder.

There are also some unique rules on right of way that may mean even on some of the more main routes you need to be very aware of people pulling out from side roads onto the main carriageway – where this applies, the rule is “give way to the right” so even if someone pulls out right in front of you it will be your fault if you hit them.

Remember it is a legal requirement to carry spare bulbs, but as of 1st July 2012 every road user must also carry their own breathalyser! Don’t worry if you don’t have one yet, they should be available nearer the time from most ports and embarkation points for between £1-2.

It is compulsory for motorbikes to use dipped headlamps day and night, and from 1st January 2013 it will be compulsory for motorcycle riders to wear reflective clothing with a reflective surface of minimum 150 sq.cm (23 sq.inches) – with fines for those not complying.

Be very cautious and vigilant and watch your speed when junctions are ahead. Speed limits in France are 50km/h (31mph) in built up or residential areas and this applies even in villages where no speed signs are displayed.

Motorway speed limits are dependant on the weather with 130km/h (81mph) permitted in dry weather and 110km/hour (68mph) in the wet.

Driving offences & fines

There are numerous radar speed traps in operation and speeding carries immediate fines so you may be taken directly to a cash point to pay up. Being from the UK won’t exempt you from payment and fines of up to €60 are common.

If you are caught exceeding the limit by a significant amount you may even get your bike impounded and have to pay to get it repatriated and yourself home.

Drink driving (anything more than a single spirit measure, small glass of wine or small beer) will also result in your bike being impounded and repatriation in the case of police impounding of your vehicle will not be covered by your insurance.

Planning your perfect route

Planning your route is very important to get the best from your trip to France.

The open road in FranceModern touring bikes are more than suitable for long road trips, but if you are using vintage bikes or you wish to take a longer holiday or explore the further reaches of the south of France and Spain you might want to consider taking a van or trailer. This will allow you to bring more luggage and reach your chosen ‘base’ more quickly and easily.

When planning your route or daytrips out you should not expect to cover more than 350km in a day by motorbike, but the distance you cover will obviously depend on your route and the type of bike you ride.

Sat-nav can be useful but you should remember that many rural roads may not be in the system and often the most direct route is not the best for bikes or scenery.

Remember – the best roads to ride in France are usually the minor routes and there are often D roads running alongside major motorway routes that are quieter, toll free and offer better scenery and insight into the French way of life.

Research your pit stops

Online forums and bike magazines are great places to get advice on routes from those who have already travelled them. Research before you go and don’t forget to plan for lunch!

Many restaurants, especially in rural areas, only serve lunch between 12 and 2pm and at other times you’ll have to rely on ubiquitous fast food joints – hardly a way to enjoy the best cuisine France has to offer!

95 and 98 octane petrol is available across France, but “4 star” leaded petrol is not. (Lead replacement petrol available, known as “Super Carburant”, and also lead substitute additive is available however.)

The new unleaded petrol containing 10% Ethanol is available (labelled “SP95-E10”) – however this may not be compatible with some bikes, so ensure you check compatibility with the manufacturer before using as it degrades seals and hoses made from conventional rubber.

There are many automated petrol pumps in France, which can be used even when the petrol stations are unmanned – but be aware that some UK credit or debit cards may not be accepted. Make sure you factor in estimates and timings for getting petrol, you don’t want to be caught short in the middle of nowhere!

If you break down, your insurer should be prompt in repairing or repatriating your bike (check the level of cover for foreign travel before your holiday) but if you are staying at accommodation that caters for the biking community you’ll often find the support, skills and parts to get back on the road on site.

French roads – the good, the bad and the ugly

French roads can be a joy, light on traffic and the drivers there have respect for bikers and often let them pass. The French in general have a great affection for motor bikers that we don’t have here in the UK because the historical link with aggression is just not there.

There is even an annual rally in Rennes each August called “Madonna des motards” where thousands of motorbikes and riders convene in order to receive a blessing and remember bikers who have died.

Unfortunately the French roads can also be perilous, particularly during repairs, which are not always clearly signposted and often use basic methods of laying down tar oil and covering it with loose gravel even on D roads. This combination is potentially lethal on a bike and can result in nasty accidents for even experienced bikers. You should also watch out for mud and loose material on roads in farming areas, particularly at harvest time.

The same principles apply whatever country you are in, motorbiking can be dangerous, but it’s also exhilarating, exciting and for some a way of life. Just be aware, be prepared and drive at safe speeds for a successful holiday.

Ten top tips when biking in France:

  1. Plan your route, remember to factor in petrol stations and food stops, alternatively take a guided tour that will have all this covered.
  2. Drive on the right hand side of the carriageway!
  3. Be aware that the “give way to the right” rule may apply
  4. Carry your original Insurance and Registration documents with you at all times (copies won’t do and you can be fined without them)
  5. Keep your lights & hi-vis jacket on at all times or risk a large fine
  6. Give your bike a thorough check over before you travel and pack any spare bulbs or wires you may need (there are bike shops to buy from in France but prices are usually higher than in the UK)
  7. Remember to keep a drink handy on long journeys; it’s easy to get dehydrated especially in warmer weather.
  8. Choose biker-friendly accommodation – you’ll have the support of a workshop and people who can offer first hand advice and help on routes etc
  9. Go in a group, or make new friends on the road, it’s a sociable way to travel.
  10. Enjoy France! Make sure you get to see the sights and experience the food – after all you won’t be able to bring back many souvenirs travelling by bike, so make those memories good ones!

21 thoughts on “Tips for Motorcycle Holidays in France

  • Sheenagh Burdell wrote

    My property ref with holiday France Direct is AG001746.We are a biker friendly establisment, we offer full workshop facilities you can even book your bike in for a service as we have a fully qualified mechanic at hand.We are both bikers are selves & have always welcomed bikers in our home. http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/French-Holiday-Cottage/302889303103797

  • Keith Robinson wrote

    i have heard it’s illegal to speed camera detection on your Sat Nav, please can you tell if this is true and if so is it acceptable if this function is turned off.

    thanks Keith

    • Liz.Rodgers@brittanyferries.com wrote

      Thank you for your comment Keith. Although we can’t give legal advice on this blog, here’s a useful site about driving in France: http://www.rac.co.uk/driving-abroad/france/
      Scroll down and there’s information about radar detection equipment under ‘Other things you should know.’

  • Andi wrote

    Great site, very useful, I’ve been over to France by car many times, this will be the first time by bike,
    I’m off to Paris from Calais, is there any other advice you think could help,
    Cheers Andi.

  • Andi if you are travelling after 1st of july you will need to carry a breathalizer kit – approx €2.20 for a box of 2. This a legal requirement after the 1 July. Mark your left hand mirror with tape or a stick on dot etc. this will help remind you to stay on the correct side of the road. It’s very easy to forget on a bike especially at road islands and junctions. Take great care of radar and hidden speed traps. The temptation to blast down a seemingly clear straight road is very tempting, stick to the limits as on the spot fines are used. Drink limit in France is one small glass of wine and random breath testing is frequent and at any time. I took a group of bikers out two weeks ago at 5 pm and we were stopped on a small road and each of us was breathalized . Have a great trip and enjoy the beauty of France and the freedom of the roads.

  • dom.ebel wrote

    Do not pay bumped-up prices in the UK for breathalysers – they cost very little in France as Roger says above. Also, always make sure you have 2 on you – this means that if you have to use one, you still have another in reserve to produce to the Gendarmes!

  • Rob Whelan wrote

    Hi Do bikes need to carry a Warning Triangle. Also do we need to alter headlight beams for driving on Right as many manufacturers say tape can damage headlights.
    Thanks Rob

  • Paul wrote

    Please can someone tell me if a motorcycle/motorcyclist is required to carry a warning triangle and Hi Vis vest or 2 vests?
    Regards, paul

  • Joel wrote

    Discover France with motorcycle, what’s a great idea ! If you need to rent a GT motorcycle for your roadtrip around our country, contact us :
    http://www.road2luxe.com

    We have a fleet of 14 GT motorcycles (Honda Goldwing, BMW K1600 GTL, BMW R1200 RT, BMW R1200 GS). We offer rentals and tours for individuals and groups.

    Ride safely

    Joël

  • Emmanuel HERBRETEAU wrote

    As of April 26th 2013, some legal points :
    – you don’t have to carry spare bulbs, nor a breathanalyzer.
    – it is NOT compulsory for motorcycle riders to wear reflective clothing
    – be very carefull with speed limits

    Welcome to France !
    Emmanuel (ZRX & XT)

  • mark wrote

    Cool site, informative, useful, topical

  • richard clark wrote

    can my daughter who is 24 rent a motocycle anywhere in europe? England requires she be 26 even though she is very experienced. Thanks

  • Ridelimousin wrote

    There is a touring checklist on our website which may be of use to first time tourers: http://www.ridelimousin.com/touring_checklist.html

  • I confirm that no spare bulbs are required, and reflective clothing are not required. No breath analyser as well.

    The roads with speed cameras are those which are busy. There are only a few off these main roads, where it is much more interesting to ride.

    You can get free GPS tours files on http://www.moto-plaisir.fr, and you can rent a bike from there, with everything you need for a great trip.
    The route des Grandes Alpes and the Route Napoleon are some of the classic bike routes

    There are cheap flights to Geneva, and you can get the bike right from the airport.

  • Based in Cannes, Columbus International offers the largest selection of BMW, Ducati, Harley Davidson and MV Agusta rental motorbikes in France. All our motorcycles are the latest models and permanently serviced to the highest manufacturer standards. An unlimited mileage allowance and fully comprehensive insurance come standard.

    For added convenience, we deliver and pick-up your hire motorcycle anywhere within 200km of Cannes. This covers Nice and Marseille. What’s more, bikes can be fitted with GPS including a selection of our favorite riding routes.

    Please visit our website http://www.columbus-international.com/ for further information. Any questions? We promise to answer any enquiry the same working day.

    Keep the shiny side up!

  • Why are bike brakes in France attached to the opposite handlebars to those in the UK? On a holiday in France, watched on of my kids fly over the handlebars when he tried a read wheel skid and locked the front brake! He asked me to ask the question on his behalf…

  • I was looking for motorcycling holidays i have searched many sites to get best information.I founded such a great information in you website thank you for sharing.

  • France is a great place to explore, and a fantastic way to begin a European tour. Watch out for the ‘Priority to the Right’ rule, which operates on many minor roads where the vehicle on the main road has to let another vehicle out of a side turning. Most drivers emerge cautiously but on occasion they can drive out without looking. When running a http://www.survivalskills.co.uk training course in the Pas de Calais area a couple of years ago, a tractor pulled straight in front of our group. Fortunately, the pre-ride briefing had mentioned ‘Priorite a Droit’ and the leading rider recognised the road sign and slowed right down. If he hadn’t…

  • Philip wrote

    Hi there. Great reading all the tips etc. I’m going over for my first trip on the 27 th April . I’m on my own as I don’t have any mate with bikes. I recon I’ll stick to the coastal area, Calais downward.. Must admit I’m bricking it a bit. Don’t know why, been a land distance trucker for years. The gold wing is in getting belts, tyres and various other things done including a major service this week and next. Can’t wait. Will go south for four days then back via a more inland route. Any ideas are most welcome.
    Regards Philip

  • Ad Arnold wrote

    It’s worth noting that from 1/1/16 it is compulsory to wear motorbike gloves in France too. (I know most of us do anyway but there are some who don’t!).
    If anyone is headed down to central France be sure to come and see us, even if only to call in for a coffee! http://www.3BsBiking.com
    Ad

  • Ad Arnold wrote

    Good article but needs some updating now as rules can change in France quite quickly!
    From 01/01/16 it is now a requirement to wear motorcycle gloves.

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