The French Cyclotouring Federation makes the following important recommendations:

Before leaving:
- Check the mechanical condition of your bicycle, don’t forget the tires and breaks. Make sure everything is in perfect condition.
- Make sure your bicycle suits your morphology
- Bike helmets are strongly recommended
- Be sure to bring along a repair kit (*)-

On site:
- Remember that the “Code de la route” or Highway code applies to cyclists in all circumstances
- Use the bike paths where they exist
- Never ride more than two abreast, and form a single file when traffic circumstances require
- Treat other bikers and road users like you would like you would like to be treated
- Select an itinerary suited to your physical capacities
- Inform your family or friends of your itinerary
- Check out the weather conditions ahead of time
- Bring along a local road map in addition to this cycling guide
- A first aid kit is not indispensable, but can be very useful
- Know how to call for help: 18 or 112 for cell phones
- Respect the environment, do not litter the roadways
- If you cycle as night falls, be sure you can see and be seen

(*): Repair kit contents:
1 puncture repair kit
1 nipple key (spoke wrench) of the right length
1back shifter cable
1 back break cable
1 inner tube
1 chain tool
1 small screwdriver
1 set of flat wrenches
1 set of Allen (hex) wrenches

> Also see:
- The Mountain Bike safety charter
- The Cyclotouring safety charter