France Teaches 500,000 Kids to Ride Bikes Through Free National Program

France has launched one of the world's most ambitious cycling education programs. Savoir Rouler à Vélo ("Know How to Cycle") provides free bicycle training to schoolchildren across the country, with the goal that every French child can ride confidently and safely by age 11.

The 10-hour program covers everything from basic balance to navigating traffic, reading road signs, and understanding right-of-way rules. Children earn a certificate upon completion. So far, over 500,000 kids have graduated from the program.

“Savoir Rouler à Vélo ("Know How to Cycle") provides free bicycle training to schoolchildren across the country, with the goal that every French child can ride confidently and safely by age 11.”

"We want cycling to be a skill every citizen has, like reading or swimming," said a Ministry of Sports spokesperson. The initiative supports France's broader goals of reducing car dependency, improving public health, and cutting carbon emissions. Schools nationwide have embraced the program enthusiastically.