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This paper deals with the use and perception of bicycles in two Western African capital towns, Ouagadougou and Bamako. It presents the results of two household surveys and semi-directive interviews held in these two cities. After a brief presentation of the travel patterns in the two cities, we specify the social characteristics of bicycle users, and show the interest of developing bicycle use in order to reduce difficulties of daily trips and transport cost. The bicycle is used more for daily travel in Ouagadougou than in Bamako (10% to 2% of trips). But in the two cities, compared with other modes of transport, the bicycle is deemed dangerous in traffic, less efficient, and most of all, is perceived as the transport mode of the poor. These cultural barriers appear to be determinant in the non-utilization of bicycles. We propose, in conclusion, some guidelines for a policy promoting cycling. A clear engagement from the local and national authorities is necessary to adapt road networks in favour of cyclists, in order to improve road safety. But these measures are not enough to change the unfavourable cultural environment. Changing the negative attitude towards this kind of transport should be considered a as a priority. A voluntarist and long term promoting policy is needed. It must be defined locally, in relation with the local cultural environment, and would differ significantly from country to country, even from city to city.
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