Bikes are becoming ever more popular with students, and it’s easy to see why. They’re portable, easy to park, and are great for the environment. If you’re looking for an easier way to get around campus, a bike could be the way forward. If you’re planning on taking a bike on campus, use these 7 tips to get the most out of the experience.
1) Use your bike for exercise
Many students are well aware of the dreaded “freshman 15” and are looking for ways to stave it off. A bike is one of the best ways to keep fit while you’re away at college. You’ll be on it every day getting to and from class, so you’ll be getting in a workout without even noticing. As well as this, you can go out for a ride whenever you want with it.
2) Keep your bike safe
Sadly, there are bike thefts on campuses all over the country, and so you want to keep your bike safe. Always lock your bike with a high quality lock and don’t leave your bike outside over night.
Make sure you buy a good lock, and use it. You can even register your bike with the National Bike Registry, in case it ever is stolen.
3) Register Your Bike
Bike Index is bike registration that works. It’s free and easy to ensure your bike is trackable.
4) Look after your bike
Learn how to maintain a bike, and take good care of it. Like any machinery, it’ll work at top capacity if you keep on repairing it. Learn the basics for home maintenance of the simple stuff, but also be willing to invest in the necessary parts and bike shop expertise that will keep your bike running smoothly for many years to come.
5) Take advantage of efficient routes
Students like taking cars to college, as it means that they have a convenient way to get to class. However, they often find there are ample hassles that takes up valuable time that could otherwise be spent snoozing. Educational expert Jim King says, “We’ve found students with bikes get to class much quicker and save time on travel. This is because they can take advantage of quicker routes and easier parking than driving students can.”
6) Reduce your impact on the environment
If you’re looking for ways to go green on campus, then you can’t do better than riding a bike. It’s entirely powered by you, so there’s no harmful gases being pumped out and you’re not contributing to the pollution in the area. There’s no better way to help the cause of saving the planet.
7) Get your bike insured
There’s a good chance your bike may already be insured. Your renters’ insurance or your parents’ home owner’s insurance may have coverage for items kept outside the home, especially items belonging to students living on campus. Check their policy before you get a bike. If there isn’t coverage, consider buy your own.
These tips will help you get the most out of your bike while you’re at college. Take care of your bike, and it will most certainly take of you. If nothing else, you’ll save money on gas and maintenance!
Biking on campus can be an efficient mode of transportation.
I’m glad that you mentioned the importance of keeping your bike safe by using a reliable lock.