Bike hire with Joe Bike
in Isere

Q: When are the major mountain passes in Isère open?

Les cols de haute altitude (au-dessus de 1 500 mètres) comme le col du Glandon, le col de la Croix de Fer ou le col du Galibier sont généralement ouverts de fin mai à fin octobre. Les dates précises varient chaque année selon l'enneigement. En revanche, les voies vertes en vallée et les routes du Nord-Isère restent praticables toute l'année.

Q: For riding in Isère, the type of bike to choose depends on where you plan to ride. If you want to cycle on **roads**: * A **road bike** will be efficient for covering long distances on paved roads, especially if you plan to tackle the mountain passes. * A **gravel bike** will offer more versatility, allowing you to ride on roads as well as forest tracks and less well-maintained paths. If you prefer **off-road**: * A **mountain bike (VTT)** is essential for exploring the numerous trails in the Isère region. * A **hardtail** mountain bike is good for cross-country riding and less technical trails. * A **full-suspension** mountain bike will provide more comfort and control on more challenging downhill terrain and rocky paths. * A **fat bike** can be suitable for certain conditions, particularly in winter if there's snow, or for very sandy/muddy terrain. Consider an **electric bike (VAE)** for: * **Easier climbing**, especially for the many hills and mountain ascents in Isère. It can make cycling more accessible and enjoyable for a wider range of fitness levels. * **Longer distances** without getting too tired. **In summary, for Isère:** * **Road cycling:** Road bike or gravel bike. * **Mountain biking:** Mountain bike (hardtail or full-suspension depending on the type of trails). * **Mixed terrain/assistance:** Gravel bike or electric bike (VAE). Think about the terrain you will most likely encounter and your preferred riding style to make the best choice.

Le choix dépend de votre itinéraire. Pour la ViaRhôna ou la Belle Via, un vélo de chemin (VTC) ou un vélo à assistance électrique (VAE) standard est idéal. Si vous prévoyez d'arpenter les routes du Vercors, de la Chartreuse ou de l'Oisans, privilégiez un vélo de route performant ou un VAE doté d'un moteur central puissant avec un bon couple pour aborder sereinement le dénivelé.

Q: Is the city of Grenoble suitable for cyclists?

Grenoble est classée parmi les villes les plus cyclables de France grâce à son relief entièrement plat et son réseau "Chronovélo" de pistes cyclables larges et sécurisées. C'est un excellent point de départ pour rejoindre la Belle Via ou pour s'élancer vers les massifs environnants qui encerclent la métropole.

Q: Is it easy to recharge an electric bike during a trip in Isère?

Oui, le département développe un réseau dense de bornes de recharge pour les vélos à assistance électrique, notamment le long des grandes véloroutes et dans les stations de montagne. De nombreux commerces, restaurants et hébergements labellisés "Accueil Vélo" mettent également des prises gratuitement à disposition des cyclistes de passage.

Discovering the Isère region by bike requires reliable equipment suited to the diverse terrain of this department. Joe Bike offers a fleet of recent, meticulously maintained bikes to satisfy all your outdoor desires. From the flat paths of the Chartreuse valleys to the demanding gradients of the Alpine passes, renting a suitable bike ensures your safety, comfort, and performance. By booking your touring bike or electric bike, you can fully enjoy the Isère landscapes with peace of mind.

Hire your bike at:

Alpe d'Huez

Auris-en-Oisans

Lans-en-Vercors

Les Deux Alpes

Pre-arranged

Villard-de-Lans

Discovering the Isère region by bike

This territory boasts a unique geography that appeals to all types of cyclists. Crossed by major national routes such as the ViaRhôna or the Belle Via, the Isère can be explored in a leisurely, contemplative mode along its rivers, or in a sporting mode in the heart of its iconic mountain ranges. The department has developed a major cycling network, and numerous establishments benefit from the Accueil Vélo (Cycling Welcome) label. This comprehensive infrastructure greatly facilitates the organisation of a cycling tour or daily excursions based around your holiday accommodation.

Greenways accessible for the whole family

The network of segregated cycle paths allows you to cross the Isère in complete peace, away from car traffic. The Isère valley offers kilometres of flat, asphalted routes at the foot of impressive cliffs. These routes, connecting Grenoble to the neighbouring departments of Drôme and Savoie, are perfectly suited for child trailers and beginner cyclists. The landscaped riverbanks provide an excellent setting for a first multi-day cycling trip.

Our workshops

A team of professionals at your service

Intersport Alpe d'Huez Foot of the Slopes

72 Rue du Pic Blanc

04 76 80 34 53

More info

Conquering the great mountain passes

For sportive cyclists, Isère immediately brings to mind legendary pages of cycling history. The Oisans region is home to the mythical ascent of Alpe d'Huez and its twenty-one numbered bends, a challenge sought after by enthusiasts from all over the world. Beyond this famous summit, the Vercors and Chartreuse massifs hide splendid and wilder passes, such as the Col de l'Arzelier or the Col de Porte. These roads offer spectacular panoramas and great physical challenges.

Cultural and gastronomic cycle touring

Cycling in Isère combines the pleasure of sport with the discovery of a rich heritage. The cycling routes pass through remarkable historic towns such as Vienne with its Gallo-Roman remains, or Grenoble, the capital of the Alps in the heart of the mountains. The routes also run alongside renowned regions, ideal for gourmet stops. This is an opportunity to taste Grenoble walnuts, Vercors cheeses or discover the centuries-old history of the famous Carthusian Fathers' liqueur.

FAQ

When are the major mountain passes in Isère open?

High-altitude mountain passes (above 1,500 metres) like the Col du Glandon, Col de la Croix de Fer, or Col du Galibier are generally open from late May to late October. The precise dates vary each year depending on snowfall. In contrast, the greenways in the valleys and roads in the North of Isère remain accessible all year round.

For riding in Isère, the type of bike to choose depends on where you plan to ride. If you want to cycle on **roads**: * A **road bike** will be efficient for covering long distances on paved roads, especially if you plan to tackle the mountain passes. * A **gravel bike** will offer more versatility, allowing you to ride on roads as well as forest tracks and less well-maintained paths. If you prefer **off-road**: * A **mountain bike (VTT)** is essential for exploring the numerous trails in the Isère region. * A **hardtail** mountain bike is good for cross-country riding and less technical trails. * A **full-suspension** mountain bike will provide more comfort and control on more challenging downhill terrain and rocky paths. * A **fat bike** can be suitable for certain conditions, particularly in winter if there's snow, or for very sandy/muddy terrain. Consider an **electric bike (VAE)** for: * **Easier climbing**, especially for the many hills and mountain ascents in Isère. It can make cycling more accessible and enjoyable for a wider range of fitness levels. * **Longer distances** without getting too tired. **In summary, for Isère:** * **Road cycling:** Road bike or gravel bike. * **Mountain biking:** Mountain bike (hardtail or full-suspension depending on the type of trails). * **Mixed terrain/assistance:** Gravel bike or electric bike (VAE). Think about the terrain you will most likely encounter and your preferred riding style to make the best choice.

The choice depends on your route. For the ViaRhôna or the Belle Via, a standard hybrid or electric bike (VAE) is ideal. If you plan to cycle the roads of the Vercors, Chartreuse or Oisans, opt for a high-performance road bike or a VAE equipped with a powerful mid-drive motor with good torque to tackle the inclines with confidence.

Is the city of Grenoble suitable for cyclists?

Grenoble is ranked among the most cycle-friendly cities in France thanks to its entirely flat terrain and its «Chronovélo» network of wide, secure cycle paths. It's an excellent starting point for joining the Belle Via or for heading out towards the surrounding mountain ranges that encircle the metropolis.

Is it easy to recharge an electric bike during a trip in Isère?

Yes, the department is developing a dense network of charging stations for electric bikes, particularly along major cycle routes and at mountain resorts. Many businesses, restaurants and accommodation providers with the «Accueil Vélo» (Bike Welcome) label also provide free sockets for passing cyclists.

Hire your bike in

your favourite agency

Bike hire with Joe Bike in Isere