Audrey Natividad
Contributing Writer
While UC Santa Barbara (UCSB) is known for its stunning beachside location and Isla Vista nightlife, one often overlooked aspect of the campus is its prominent cycling culture. With over 10,000 students, faculty, and staff commuting to school by bike each day, according to UCSB Transportation and Parking Services, the university has fully embraced this as a primary mode of transportation.
Paths span all across campus, providing not only a convenient and time efficient method of getting to class but also an eco-friendly, sustainable one. Despite all of these positives, it can be a little daunting for new students or visitors to try their hand at biking, so here is everything you need to know.
1. One of the first steps to a successful bike ride is getting the right bike for you. Many students, myself included, opt for hybrid bikes, which offer a blend of speed and comfort. If you’re looking for both leisurely commutes and fast rides from place to place, this is the way to go. Others may want a more stylish beach cruiser. While UCSB has a fairly flat campus, these one-gear bikes can make the few hills on campus just that much more strenuous.
2. Another key aspect of biking at UCSB is understanding the different routes. UCSB’s extensive bike paths, while sometimes confusing, can ensure a smooth flow of traffic if the rules are followed.
3. Always stick to the bike paths. These are dedicated lanes for cyclists, and staying in these lines prevents collisions with pedestrians and fellow riders. These paths are like roads, so following the flow of traffic is the key to success.
4. Do not ride your bike in between the library and Interactive Learning Pavilion (ILP). With so many people walking in this area and no designated bike paths, avoiding bikers can feel a bit like a game of “Crossy Road.”
5. Remember to yield! When entering the bicycle loops, yield to those already inside. They have the right of way, so if you cut someone off, do not be surprised if you hear some unkind remarks.
6. Make yourself familiar with key routes and the typically high-traffic areas, including the routes near the library and ILP, Pardall Tunnel, and the paths leading to the University Center. My first few weeks learning the bike paths, I avoided these areas around 11 a.m.-2 p.m., the busiest times, out of fear of an embarrassing accident. Still not sure where to go? Check out the UCSB Campus Map, which includes all of the different bike routes available.
7. Remember to practice cycling etiquette. Be respectful of everyone else using the space. If you’re going slower, stick to the right side of the lane, allowing other students who may be in more of a rush to pass you. Please, for the love of God, if you are simply walking around, do not do so in the middle of the bike paths — unless, of course, you really want to be hit by a bike.
8. Finally, make sure to protect your bike at all times. UCSB is no stranger to bike thefts, so it is very important you follow certain measures if you plan on keeping your bike. Students are recommended to buy a bike lock, more specifically a U-Lock. These locks are generally lighter than chains and cannot be cut with bolt cutters. When locking your bike, remember to secure the frame as well as the front and back tires to a bike rack. Another precaution you can take is registering your bike with the school, so if it is stolen and found, it can be properly returned to its owner. My friend learned this the hard way. After her bike was stolen, she was lucky enough to have it returned by the police thanks to her previously registering it. Once she got it back, she locked it up properly — securing the frame and both tires — and, sure enough, not even two days later someone attempted to steal it again. This time they could only detach the back tire before giving up, leaving the entirety of the bike still secured to the rack. Her experience shows that taking these few extra measures really does pay off.
9. Do not forget to check out the Associated Students (AS) Bike Shop. Located near the Recreation Center, the AS Bike Shop offers a range of affordable repairs, parts, and other maintenance services. They are open from 10 a.m.-3:45 p.m. Monday through Thursday and are available to assist student bikers with any issues they may encounter.
Biking through UCSB has evolved to be more than just a means of getting around campus — it’s part of the school’s culture. Whether you’re trying to get to class or enjoying the many scenic routes, cycling at UCSB offers convenience, sustainability, and an active lifestyle. By following these guidelines, you can efficiently navigate the campus and help make the most of your time here.