Ride smart: Tips for safe and sustainable campus cycling

Biking is one of the most popular ways to navigate campus and Boulder. Here are some tips to help you maintain and protect your bike for a convenient and sustainable way to get around.ÌýÌýÌý
ÌýÌýRegister your bikeÌýÌý
If you bring a bike to campus, register it with the Environmental Center. Registering your bike includes free maintenance assistance at two campus bike stations. It also helps police track down your bike if it’s ever stolen.ÌýÌýÌý
ÌýÌýPark on campusÌýÌý
Bicycles must be parked in bicycle parking racks or secure bike shelters. 96% of bikes stolen on campus had a cable lock or no lock. Instead, park your bike using a high-quality U-lock to keep it safe. Ensure the lock goes through your bike's frame and not the front wheel. Thieves can easily remove a front wheel and take the rest of your bike.ÌýÌýÌý
If you don’t have a U-lock, you can trade in your cable lock at one of the bike stations during business hours for a free U-lock.ÌýÌý
ÌýÌýKnow the rulesÌýÌýÌý
As a cyclist, you have responsibilities similar to those of motorists. Practice safety tips and follow the rules to avoid a citation.ÌýÌý
- Always stay on the right side of bike paths and bike lanes.Ìý
- Yield to pedestrians when riding your bike.Ìý
- Don’t wear headphones or ear buds when riding—this is illegal for cyclists.Ìý
- Pay attention to signage on bike paths and throughout campus for dismount zones, where bike riding is prohibited.Ìý
- Ride slowly around pedestrians and give them space. Pass on the left and ring your bell or say, “on your left.â€Ìý
- Signal your turns, just as you do when driving a car. A left arm straight out signals a left turn, and a right arm straight out signals a right turn.Ìý
- Ensure you have a mounted front light and rear red reflector—this is required when riding between dusk and dawn.Ìý
- Don’t drink and ride. Colorado’s DUI statute includes bicycles under its You can get a DUI for biking under the influence.ÌýÌý
ÌýÌýWear a helmetÌýÌý
Wear a helmet anytime you ride to protect your head from serious injury. If you’ve been in an accident, replace your helmet as soon as possible. While you may not be able to see any visible damage, impacts can cause internal damage to the foam cushioning in most helmets, leaving you more vulnerable in the future.ÌýÌý
There is no such thing as a concussion-proof helmet. If you hit your head while biking, schedule an appointment with a healthcare provider to check for a concussion. Learn more about concussion care and symptoms from Medical Services.ÌýÌý
ÌýÌýPrepare for your bike rideÌýÌý
If you notice issues with your bike, have a bike mechanic check it out. Students with registered bikes can visit our bike mechanics at the TLC and Folsom bike stations.ÌýÌý
To learn even more about bike repair and maintenance, sign up for our or explore this slide show about .ÌýÌý
ÌýÌýHave a backup planÌýÌý
While we do our best to prepare for the unexpected, it’s good to have a backup plan if you get a flat tire or caught in bad weather. Here are a few options:ÌýÌý
- Ride with a bike and your Buff OneCard.Ìý
- Download the CU NightRide app for free late-night transportation within Boulder city limits.Ìý
- Use a ride-share service or ask someone to pick you up.ÌýÌýÌý
Check out events and resourcesÌý
Discover a variety of biking events and resources as you navigate campus life on two wheels:Ìý
CU Bike FestÌý
Sept. 4 | 2-5 p.m. | Farrand FieldÌýÌý
Enjoy free food, games and giveaways while becoming part of the ÂÌñ»»ÆÞ bike community. There will also be a used bike sale!Ìý
Semester bike rentalsÌý
Students have the option to rent a bike for a semester at a low price through the Environmental Center.Ìý
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Students can sign up with BCycle for a free ÂÌñ»»ÆÞ Student Pass, with access to unlimited e-bike rides for an entire year.ÌýÌýÌý
Classes and clinicsÌý
The Environmental Center offers a variety of bicycle classes and clinics to improve your skills and knowledge of bikes and bike riding.ÌýÌýÌý
Sustainable BuffsÌý
Join the Sustainable Buffs Community! Get involved with sustainability and climate action at ÂÌñ»»ÆÞ and learn how you can add more sustainable actions to every day.Ìý ÌýÌý