Perpignan’s associative and participatory cycling workshop Casa bicicleta will celebrate ten years of existence on Thursday, November 13. This first decade will be celebrated at the end of the day during the Lucioles’ traditional road trip at 6 p.m. from Castillet, cycling through the city streets to raise awareness of the importance of lighting for cyclists.
“Our goal from the start was for people to be able to cycle and gain what we call “velonomy” or how to be independent in their mode of transportation,” explains Étienne Braud, one of the founders.
Young people, old people, DIYers, beginners, men, women
To date, the association has 855 members. The workshop doors are wide open every weekend except Tuesday and Saturday mornings. Everyone comes there at their own desire to repair their bike or buy new or used spare parts. The only condition: have paid the annual membership fee of 10 euros.
“I’ve been a member for seven years,” said Alexandra, who came to refill her rear wheel. “This is where I bought bicycles, also my children’s bicycles. If you want to be fast, learn yourself, otherwise ask for advice. The volunteers in charge of reception are still there and we also help each other. »
As he explains how his workshop works, three young guys work beside him with a stubborn chain that keeps derailing one of their bikes. “Here we have all profiles: young people, old people, delivery people, retirees, handymen, beginners, men, women… This is a place of rare social diversity,” emphasizes Étienne Braud.
In addition to workshops, Casa Bicicleta also intervenes in schools during the operation “Know how to ride a bicycle”. In September 2026, the workshop will leave its historic address, rue de la Lanterne, to join the new Maison du vélo that will open on rue de la Cloche d’Or. Thanks to this move, the surface area will double as we approach the city center, “which will make us more visible”.
