Why Bike on Campus?

Biking is one of the most reliable and environmentally-friendly ways to travel around the University of Iowa. When you ride your bicycle to work or class, you reduce traffic and save money.

Commuting by bicycle is a fast and efficient way to navigate the University of Iowa’s 1,700 acre campus. It’s often the quickest and most convenient way around Iowa City/Coralville area as well.

The University of Iowa encourages bicycling as a safe, healthy and viable form of transportation. Always remember to wear a helmet and follow all Iowa City bicycle laws and regulations.

Smart Biking

Bicycle riders should follow the rules of the road along with motor vehicles. Adhering to the laws protects you and other motorists. Remember these tips for everyone’s safety:

  • Wear a bicycle helmet
  • Respect the pedestrian right of way
  • Anticipate conflict
  • Follow the traffic laws
  • Share the road and walkways

Safety

Biking Rules and Regulations

Preventing Theft

Parking on Campus

Bicyclists should always use bicycle racks to protect property, pedestrians and access to University facilities. Bikes shouldn’t be parked inside University buildings, or attached or rested against trees, signs, handrails, handicap parking meters, or street furniture- you could be cited for violating these regulations. | Learn More >

  • See this Bicycle Commuter Guide from the Metropolitan Planning Organization of Johnson County for more information about bike parking and bike lockers in Iowa City and Coralville, along with a map of bike rack locations.
  • See ThinkBicycles.org for a list of covered bike parking areas.

Registering Your Bicycle

Bicycle registration is voluntary for all staff, students, faculty, and general public who ride and park on the University of Iowa campus. Registration offers the following advantages:

  • Unregistered bicycles will be immobilized or impounded for all parking violations
  • Registration serves as a deterrent to theft
  • Registration assists in the identification of lost or stolen bicycles
  • It allows the University to better plan for improved bicycle parking and operation on campus

To avoid immobilization or impoundment, please register your bike by clicking on the link here.

Local Bike Resources

The Think Bicycles Coalition of Johnson County links cyclists and bicycling groups with city, county and state officials to foster and expand all aspects of bicycling in Johnson County. Think Bicycles seeks to educate all roadway users, to expand cycling infrastructure, to increase access to transportation and recreational trails, and to encourage community members to ride bicycles.

ThinkBicycles.org has a extensive listing of bicycle resources in Johnson County, including:

The Iowa City Bike Library at 408 E. College St. is a non-profit bike library program, which also rent-a-bench for people to work on their own bikes and donate parts and accessories. It also offers bicycle maintenance classes and resources.

Other Resources

  • Rentals are available on a daily basis at the Recreational Services Outdoor Rental Center
  • Classes and trips are also offered though Recreational Services and in thecommunity.
  • The Iowa Bicycle Coalition promotes cycling as safe and enjoyable recreation and transportation. The non-profit group was launched by bicycling advocates from across Iowa and unites the voices of road riders, mountain bikers, recreation riders, commuters, and anyone else who prefers a bicycle for recreation and transportation.
  • University of Iowa's Bicycle Commuter Guide and Map of Bike Racks

The University of Iowa is committed to becoming a Bicycle Friendly University.