Biking as a Way of Life at Boise State University

Boise State University is a university that has no equal when it comes to promoting cycling. In fact, it has a well-defined biking infrastructure that would put most universities to shame.

From students to staff, everyone tries to use bikes to carry out their chores, exercise, go for shopping or for pleasure. The school fosters this culture by sponsoring the cycling team. It is also motivated by the fact that cycling can help combat laziness and obesity as our current generation becomes more sedentary.  Cycling is also a form of aerobic exercise, which not only exercises the legs, but also the cardiovascular system.

The university also has a ‘cycle learning center’ that was established in early 2002 that offers riding clinics and repair services to bikers.

When I first joined, I was awestruck by the riding infrastructure, which consists of well-paved tartan driveways. I was also surprised to learn that football fans preferred to ride their specialized bikes crosstrail to the Bronco Stadium. Upon enquiry, I discovered that they were encouraged to do so by the bike corral, which assured that their bikes would be safe.

Other impressive features that makes Boise State’s university biking infrastructure stand out among its peers include an online map for users on campus, compressed air stations as well as a bike fix-it station at the Brandy Street Garage. Others include the well-developed bike lanes on campus, and a post ride recreational center where one can take a well deserved rest after a tiresome ride.

Biking here is so developed that you cannot particularly say there is a distinct riding schedule. This is because there is always a group riding at any time of the day. However, there are groups that go for practice sessions early in the morning and later in the evening. Such groups also tend to go for riding excursions outside the town.