Green Bike Program arrives at WSU


Photos by Robert Hubner, WSU Photo Services

 


 
 
 

By Robert Frank, WSU Today
 
PULLMAN – A fleet of 40 bikes, available for free use on the WSU Pullman campus, rolled into motion Sept. 9 marking the launch of a new Green Bike Program sponsored by WSU Wellbeing.

The program, open to students, faculty and staff, allows people to save time moving between classes and meetings. It features 40 new Trek Hardtail mountain bikes equipped with hybrid tires, state-of-the-art locking systems, baskets for carrying books, lights for night travel, and helmets.

Similar to bike-sharing programs at colleges and cities nationwide, it is designed to decrease congestion, promote physical activity and health, lessen the use of fossil fuels, and improve the environment.

Jamie Bentley, Wellbeing Program, said the bike program has been a bit slow in appearing in Pullman, partially due to the campus’ hilly terrain.

“I always thought my grandparents were lying when they said that when they were kids they had to walk to school uphill both ways. Now I realize that in some places that’s true,” said Bentley with a laugh. “But you need to remember that part of the way you get to go downhill.

“The Pullman-Moscow area, with the Chipman Trail, already has a strong contingent of bike riders, which we hope to build on.”

Where to go

The Green Bike Program has two check-out/in locations — the CUB information desk and the Student Recreation Center front desk. Bikes can be returned to either place within 24 hours of check-out. Bikes are free to students, faculty and staff with a valid Cougar Card.

Additionally, the Outdoor Recreation Club is offering week-long bike rentals. This service is free for WSU students and SRC Members with a valid Cougar Card; it will cost $42 per week for everyone else. Weekend and daily rates also are

available. The ORC is located in the Hollingbery Fieldhouse Annex and is

open 10:30 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday-Friday.

Bike clinics

Learn a brief history of cycling, general maintenance and safety skills for riders at a free bike clinic. The clinic will help you and your bike become roadworthy and ready for a trip across campus, town or state lines.

Bikes will NOT be provided; please bring a personal bike. Tools and knowledge will be provided. Click the links below to register.


Thursday, Sept. 10

(register by 9/10) – 5-6 p.m.


Thursday, Sept. 17

(register by 9/15) – 5-6 p.m.


Thursday, Oct. 8

(register by 10/8) – 5-6 p.m.

Bike-shop access

WSU Wellbeing also has created an on-campus bike shop located in the Hollingbery Fieldhouse Annex. The bike shop — equipped with tools, stands and manuals on how to fix your bike — will be available for students and SRC members to work on their own bikes. The shop is open 4-6 p.m. Tuesday-Thursday.

WSU Wellbeing also offers basic bike-maintenance clinics in the shop. For more information or to sign up for a free bike clinic, click here.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
No, not all days are sunny, warm and clear in Pullman. But even on those more challenging days, there are those hearty bicyclers who are not to be deterred. This photo is part of a Dec. 18, 2008, photo gallery titled “Early winter storm a doozy.”

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