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Hi, I posted this question on one of the other forums (fora?) but didn't get much response.  May have been in the wrong place so I hope you guys here can help me!

We were hoping to take a couple of bicycles to France with us next week and bought a cycle carrier to go on the car.  It's not the 'towbar' type but one that hangs on straps that go into the back of our Renault Laguna hatchback (you can tell I've got all the technical lingo cracked can't you ;-)

Trouble is, now we're hearing different opinions about whether or not these are legal in France, with anecdotes about people being stopped and required to hand over 150 euro on the spot and not being allowed to carry on with the bikes! 

Does anyone have any knowledge or experience on this that you could share with us?  It's not the end of the world if we can't take the bikes but would have been nice.

Thanks

We were stopped in Italy, years ago, and fined a large amount because we didn't have a long vehicle plaque (red and white striped) which should hang on the back of the bikes if they overhang the rear of the vehicle.

I haven't heard that this is required in France, though - but it may be.

Have a look at this web site. It may help, it has a members forum.

http://www.ctc.org.uk/

harryb

Quote: Originally posted by Val A on 10/8/2011

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We were stopped in Italy, years ago, and fined a large amount because we didn't have a long vehicle plaque (red and white striped) which should hang on the back of the bikes if they overhang the rear of the vehicle.

I haven't heard that this is required in France, though - but it may be.

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The French outlets sell the starp on variety ... so you can bet they aren't illegal!

Just make sure number plates and lights are visible.

The only problem with the 'strappers' is the damage to your car ... they always leave marks ... and aren't 100 per cent secure ... do be careful!

I invested in MaxxRaxx this year .... best decision I ever made.

If you aren't towing, then the tow bar flat bed type are best.

Caravan dealers may have them - or motorhome dealers.  You can get them on line from ebay - but they're not cheap. 

Apparently they're not legally required in France - but 'advisory'.

As I went to France with a roofbox I had to get myself a rear mount cycle rack, so opted for a Thule high rack so the number plate is visible at all times - it can also fold up when the bikes are off. Remember to have a flexible plastic coated steel rope lock for extra security when carrying your bikes.

Thanks everyone.  From all the information we've gathered it transpires that the 'strap' type of carrier is only suitable for short journeys - certainly not Newcastle to Normandy!  This will be the first time we have ridden bikes for years so until we decide if it's for us it's really not worth investing in a better carrier.  The car is now packed up and ready to go and, with the aid of a borrowed roof box, we have got one bike in the car; the other one is staying behind - at least one of us will be able to cycle off to collect the morning croissants