by Ashling Landers
As many of us are aware, biking is not only good for our planet because of its low carbon emissions, but it’s also good for our health as it is an excellent way to engage in exercise. However, many of us do not know all the great resources available for cyclists both on and off-campus. This list won’t cover everything you need to know about cycling in the ‘Ham, but it’s a good starting point!
Image Source: True Tribe
Safety
Many moons ago, UAB Digital Media created How to Cycle in the City. For anyone who has not biked in a city before (like me when I first started classes at UAB) this is a great crash-course on the rules and tools of bike safety.
UAB Transportation Division
Once you know the rules of the road, you’re ready to utilize the UAB’s Transportation Office. Using this link you can access safety tips, a bike parking and bike lanes map, and most importantly, register your bike! Registering your vehicle, as described on their site, “helps with recovery of stolen property, or in case a bike is deemed abandoned”. Registrigration isn’t required but it's a nice perk to take advantage of as a student, especially because once your bike is in the system you’re gifted a free UAB helmet and U-lock.
A lesser-known resource offered by Transportation is the Bike Locker Program. For $40 a semester, cyclists can rent a 4' high x 6'5" deep x 3' locker located on the ground floor of Lister Hill Library. The lockers “safeguard your bicycle by providing protection from theft, vandalism, and inclement weather.”
Bike Repair
From flat tires to faulty chains, bikes require a bit of maintenance. For big repairs check out the Blazer Bike Shop operated under University Recreation. For the DIYers who want to complete small repairs like tire inflation, take advantage of the bike repair station located in front of the Blazer Residence Life Center (RLC). Here’s a quick guide to using the Fixit device at the bike repair station.
Off campus? No problem. Cahaba Cycles and Bike Link of Hoover also provide bike repair services.
Bike Paths and Trails
Finally, if you’re looking for places to ride outside of the city, check out these helpful maps from the Freshwater Landtrust and Cahaba Cycles.
You’re now ready to strap on your helmet and safely explore the Magic City on two wheels!
References
Environmental footprint image
How to cycle in the city video by UAB Digital Media
Biking at UAB Transportation Division
Biker locker program
Blazer Bike Shop
How to use Fixit guide
Cahaba Cycles store website
Bike Link of Hoover store website
Freshwater Land Trust find a trail map
Cahaba Cycles places to ride map