How Happy Are Parisians With Vélib?
By
Brad Aaron
10:52 AM PDT on May 9, 2008

The latest figures from the Paris Vélib bike sharing program are in. User stats and survey results are posted on the official web site, but for those who don’t parlez Français, here’s a summary:
- Rides to date: 20 million
- Average trips/day: 70,000
- Average trip time: 18 minutes
- 190,000 annual pass holders
- 42% of users are females
- 1/3 of users come from outside the central city
- 17% of users are more than 46 years old
- 94% of users like it (of which 20% like it a lot)
- 46% are satisfied with stations (available bikes, parking slots)
Vélib-style bike rentals come to the U.S. this month in Washington, D.C.
After the jump, for you French speakers, Parisians talk about the program — one of many ways the city is beating traffic.
Votre avis sur le service Vélib’
by mairiedeparis
Brad Aaron began writing for Streetsblog in 2007, after years as a reporter, editor, and publisher in the alternative weekly business. Brad adopted New York's dysfunctional traffic justice system as his primary beat for Streetsblog. He lives in Manhattan.
Read More:
More from Streetsblog Los Angeles
DASH Buses to Begin Bus Stop/Bus Lane Camera Enforcement Next Week
Next week LADOT DASH bus automated cameras will begin sending warning notices - with actual $293 tickets starting on January 2, 2027
October 30, 2026
Friday’s Headlines
ICE terror, Pasadena, MacArthur Park, LAX People Mover, D Line construction, car-nage, and more
October 30, 2026
Five Simple Hacks to Avoid L.A. City Speed Camera Tickets
Nobody ever tells you about hack number 2! You'll never believe it!
October 29, 2026
SGV Celebrates New Fullerton Road Rail Grade Separation
After ten years of grade separation work, the road will reopen to drivers in a matter of days, with a dedication to former Congressmember Grace Napolitano.
October 29, 2026
Thursday’s Headlines
L.A. bans oil drilling, Metro D Line, LAX, Long Beach, sea levels, Destination Crenshaw, Commerce, car-nage, and more
October 29, 2026