Through this article, we take you to visit the best destinations for electric fat biking. From the Alps to the Atlantic beaches, through forests and natural parks, you will discover various must-see spots in France. Explore new horizons with your electric bike!
The electric fatbike: a significant ally for your expeditions
For 2025, the popularity of the electric fatbike will only grow. This enthusiasm is mainly due to its great versatility. Its wide tires and electric assistance allow you to ride on snow, sand, and other types of marked trails. Accessible to everyone, this large wheel electric bike offers comfort, performance, and the freedom to explore terrains inaccessible to traditional bikes.
A trend that continues to grow
The electric fatbike has experienced a meteoric rise. Designed in the 1980s in the snowy regions of Alaska and the deserts of New Mexico, this vehicle has captivated many in France. In 2023, over 800,000 units were sold in the Hexagon. An increase of 30% compared to the previous year.
Manufacturers hope that this popularity will continue to grow in 2025, driven by the interest of the French in sustainable and all-terrain vehicles. With its versatility, the electric fatbike can ride on varied terrains: sand, snow, mountains. Extreme sports enthusiasts love it, and its electric assistance is a major asset for getting out of difficult situations.
Advantages that appeal to all profiles
An electric bike that adapts to all terrains
The main selling point of electric fatbikes is their versatility. They can ride on any type of terrain, thanks to their oversized tires (4 to 5 inches wide). You will find them on varied surfaces such as snow, sand, or mountains, without showing the slightest sign of difficulty. They will literally accompany you everywhere!
Comfort and practicality
Given its size, it is clear that the fatbike is practical and comfortable. With its aluminum frame, it is both sturdy and lightweight, ensuring unparalleled maneuverability. Moreover, the latest models are equipped with a removable battery, which greatly facilitates recharging. No more need to move the entire bike to the electrical outlet. Simply remove the battery and recharge it wherever you want.
An accessible mountain bike for everyone
With the electric fatbike, both novice and experienced cyclists can enjoy many adventures. The electric assistance allows for covering long distances without straining, and the hydraulic brakes ensure safe and effective stops. This vehicle will enable you to enjoy a unique experience, regardless of your level.
The best destinations for electric fat biking
From the peaks of the Alps to the beaches of the Atlantic, passing through the Wild Pyrenees, France is full of dream destinations for electric fat biking. Each place, each region, and each area has its own specifics. Whether it's snow, sand, or rocky trails, everyone will find something to enjoy.
The French Alps: the adventurers' paradise
The French Alps have always been a playground for thrill-seekers. With slopes accessible in both summer and winter, the Alps welcome you to breathtaking landscapes.
● First destination on the map : Les Deux Alpes. This famous resort offers varied slopes for electric fatbike riding. You will find both fun and technical trails there.
● Second destination: Chamonix-Mont-Blanc. This place offers marked trails suitable for all levels of riders. And as a bonus: a superb view of Mont-Blanc.
● Third destination: La Plagne. This slope is aimed more at sliding enthusiasts. You will find winter trails there, where you need to be vigilant to avoid accidents. Before going, make sure your brakes are functional and that your tires show no signs of wear. The fatbike must provide good grip, otherwise the fall could be fatal.
The Pyrenees: strong sensations and wild nature
The Pyrenees: a true paradise for nature lovers. You will find varied trails and magnificent panoramas, perfect for electric fatbike riding. Equip yourself and set off without delay on an adventure in this magical place that combines peaceful walks and technical descents.
The Font-Romeu spot is the perfect place to discover mountain outings on electric fatbikes. It offers various easily accessible trails, where you can ride peacefully in the heart of the Pyrenean landscapes.
In Saint-Lary-Soulan, you will discover trails that are very popular with experienced hikers and cyclists. If you are used to somewhat technical areas, this spot is made for you. Just make sure to have good tires for maximum grip.
The beaches of the Atlantic coast: the pleasure of driving on the sand
The electric fatbike can ride on any type of terrain. This description gives plenty of ideas. Why not take the opportunity to go for a ride on fine sandy beaches facing the ocean? If you want to test the effectiveness of the fatbike on sand, choose the Atlantic coast. Here, the freedom of movement makes perfect sense!
The most popular spots are:
● The beaches of Biarritz, Lacanau, and Hossegor: These spots offer you natural bike paths along the ocean. You can ride at full speed along the coast, without risking losing stability or grip. The electric beach cruiser bike is an excellent choice to fully enjoy your beach outings.
● The Dune of Pilat: This famous dune immerses you in a unique experience in the sand of the Atlantic coast. Sand sliding enthusiasts will find their happiness there.
The forests and natural parks: total immersion in nature
If you dream of total disconnection, the forests and natural parks of France are made for you. These places call for adventure, with marked and enchanting forest trails.
Among the key spots, we have the Fontainebleau forest, located near Paris. A true escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, this forest offers numerous shaded paths and natural cycling trails.
Head towards the regional natural parks of Morvan, Vosges, and Pilat. These natural parks are perfect for electric fatbike riding. Their marked trails allow you to discover the local wildlife and flora while enjoying the performance of the electric fatbike.
The fatbike events and communities
If you are a electric fatbike enthusiast, or simply curious to try this activity, know that there are many events and communities in France where you can share your adventures and meet other enthusiasts.
Events dedicated to electric fatbikes
In France, several events dedicated to electric fatbiking, such as races and rides, take place every year in popular spots like the Alps, the Pyrenees, or the Atlantic coast. These gatherings provide an excellent opportunity to test models, participate in competitions, or simply enjoy group riding in exceptional landscapes.
Communities and clubs
Many communities, online or local, organize group outings for electric fatbike enthusiasts. These groups allow cyclists of all levels to come together to explore new trails and share their passion. Whether in the Alps, the Pyrenees, or around the Fontainebleau forest, joining a club is a great way to discover new places and meet other enthusiasts.
Practical tips for electric fatbike enthusiasts
The electric fatbike is perfect for exploring varied terrains, but to make the most of it, some precautions are necessary. Whether it's choosing the model suited to your needs, preparing your bike before each outing, or ensuring your safety, these practical tips will help you fully enjoy your adventures with complete confidence.
How to choose the right electric fatbike?
Choosing the electric fatbike that suits you depends on several important criteria. First of all, think about how you will use it: if you plan to ride on mountainous terrain, opt for a model with a powerful motor (minimum 500W) to tackle the slopes with ease. For beaches or flatter terrain, a lighter and more maneuverable bike will suffice, and you will appreciate its ease of handling on sand or less technical trails.
Next, consider the battery life: depending on your schedule, a battery of 500 Wh or more will be ideal for long rides, but if you are riding on short routes, a lower capacity may suffice. Finally, the budget also plays an important role, so don't overlook entry-level models, but make sure they meet your expectations in terms of performance and comfort.
Maintenance and preparation before each outing
Before each outing, a small check can save you a lot of trouble. Start by checking the tire pressure, which should be suited to the type of terrain. Over-inflated tires will not provide good grip on loose surfaces, such as sand or snow, while under-inflated tires will affect performance on rocky or mountainous terrain.
Don't forget to fully charge the battery to avoid unpleasant surprises on the road. Another important point, check the proper functioning of the brakes, especially if you have planned a technical descent. Before each ride, lubricate the chain and inspect the other moving parts to ensure a smooth and safe ride.
The security question
Safety is paramount, and it starts with good equipment. Always wear a helmet, even if you are not riding at high speed, to protect your head in case of a fall. Gloves are also recommended to protect your hands, especially in the event of a fall or difficult weather conditions. Also consider wrist and knee protection, especially if you are riding on technical terrain or in winter conditions.
For even more safety, using a GPS or a route tracking app can be very helpful, especially for locating trails, avoiding getting lost, and measuring your performance. Good preparation and suitable equipment will allow you to fully enjoy your electric fatbike adventures with complete peace of mind.
FAQ
1. What is the average weight of an electric fatbike?
The weight of an electric fatbike generally varies between 22 and 30 kg, depending on the model and the materials used. Lighter bikes are often designed for more urban use or on easy terrains, while more robust models, with stronger components, can be a bit heavier.
2. Can I use an electric fatbike in the rain?
Yes, most electric fat bikes are designed to withstand the elements, but it is always recommended to be cautious of water, especially around the battery and electrical components. After a ride in the rain, remember to dry and maintain your bike to prevent any corrosion.
3. How long does the battery of an electric fatbike last?
The lifespan of a battery varies depending on usage, but on average, it can last between 3 to 5 years. The battery capacity may also decrease over time, but with proper maintenance (avoiding deep discharges and excessively long charges), you will extend its lifespan.
4. Can you ride on very sandy terrain with an electric fatbike?
Yes, the wide tires of the electric fatbike are specially designed to ride on sandy terrain, distributing the weight over a larger surface to avoid sinking. However, it is important to properly adjust the tire pressure for better grip on the sand.
Conclusion
The electric fatbike has become a must-have in the "starter pack" of adventurers seeking thrills and freedom. Whether in the French Alps or in the heart of forests and natural parks, this all-terrain bike promises you safe and exciting outings in breathtaking landscapes.
Set off without delay to the discovery of the most beautiful destinations in France and let yourself be seduced by the unique pleasure of electric fatbiking.