In Val-de-Marne, an old bakery has undergone a complete transformation. The former space, previously occupied by the Marie Blachère chain, at the foot of Maisons-Alfort station in downtown, now hosts a new concept. Île-de-France Mobilités officially opened its new Bike House on Monday, March 2, 2026 — the first of its kind in the department. It’s a telling symbol of what cities now expect from their train station ground floors: fewer empty spaces, more bike handlebars.
A Cycling Center is a dedicated space that offers high visibility and easy access to a wide range of bike-related services. Designed as welcoming and inclusive community hubs, these venues provide advice, training, and tailored services to meet the diverse needs of everyone—from beginners hesitant to ride to seasoned cyclists.
In practical terms, visitors can test different bike models, gather information about cycling services, choose short-term rentals (ranging from half a day to a week), or take advantage of repair workshops and personalized support. It’s also possible to bring your own bike for repairs using the tools provided, making it convenient for fixing a flat tire just half a kilometer from home.
Yes, and this is one of the major advantages of this location. You can sign up for the Véligo Location service and walk away with your chosen bike immediately. Launched by Île-de-France Mobilités in 2019, this program now offers around twenty different models for long-term rentals of 3 to 12 months— including traditional electric bikes, folding bikes, cargo bikes, tricycles, adapted bikes, and mechanical bicycles starting at just €10 per month. The service has attracted over 130,000 members so far. Subscription fees are eligible for employer reimbursement of at least 50% for commuting, as well as coverage under the Sustainable Mobility Package.
The Véligo bikes are not for sale outright, but long-term rentals offer a great way to try out a model before committing. If you decide to go ahead, the region provides a financial aid covering up to 50% of the total cost, including accessories. The subsidy is capped between 100 and 1,200 euros depending on the type of bike. Applications must be submitted online via mes-demarches.iledefrance-mobilites.fr.
This launch is part of an ambitious regional initiative. The first Bike Hubs opened in January 2026 in Ermont-Eaubonne, Juvisy, Croix de Berny, and Aulnay-sous-Bois. The goal is to establish 40 Bike Hubs across Île-de-France by 2030, with half of them located in or near train stations on permanent sites. By the end of 2026, a total of fifteen centers are expected to be operational—eight permanent and seven mobile units.
Maisons-Alfort is in an ideal position to expand this kind of service. The city already features 59 Véligo bike racks near Line 8 of the Paris metro, nearly 300 additional bike racks around public transportation hubs, and a total of 1,501 parking spaces dedicated to eco-friendly mobility options. The banks of the Marne River and the Bois de Vincennes are easily accessible by bicycle from the city center — more reasons to hop on your bike rather than drive."
The Maisons-Alfort Bike Center is now open at 1 Jean-Moulin Square (94140). It operates from Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Happy cycling!
Will your station host a Bicycle Hub? Everything you need to know about this new free service
Starting January 2026, Île-de-France Mobilités will inaugurate its first Bike Hubs — free, one-stop stations located near train stations to support your daily cycling journeys across the region. [Read more]
Location
Bike House in Maisons-Alfort
1 Place Jean Moulin
94140 Alfortville
Recommended age
For all
Official website
www.veligo-location.fr
Will your station host a Bicycle Hub? Everything you need to know about this new free service
