Cycling presents a fantastic means of transportation, and its advantages are further amplified for students. Bike-friendly university cities offer a plethora of amenities and resources that enhance the convenience of cycling to campus.
These cities boast well-maintained bike lanes and trails, efficient bike-sharing systems, and infrastructure designed to cater to cyclists. Moreover, the presence of a robust cycling culture within these cities ensures that students receive ample support and motivation from fellow cyclists.
In honour of World Bicycle Day on 3 June, we’ve written this article, listing some of the top bike-friendly university cities worldwide. Check it out!
Davis, California
Renowned for its bike-friendly atmosphere, Davis is a small city that has garnered a strong reputation. With an extensive network of approximately 60 miles (97 kilometres) of bike lanes and trails, Davis is one of the best cities for cycling to campus. The University of California, Davis, stands as one of the nation’s top cycling-friendly university campuses, further highlighting the city’s commitment to cycling. In addition to its bike-friendly infrastructure, Davis fosters a vibrant bicycle culture, evident through the presence of various bike clubs and the organisation of exciting cycling events.
Boulder, Colorado
Boulder stands as another city that thrives on its cycling culture. Boasting an extensive network of over 100 miles (161 kilometres) of bike routes and trails, the city offers a remarkable environment for cyclists to explore. The University of Colorado Boulder, with its bike-friendly campus, further exemplifies Boulder’s commitment to making cycling a viable option to get around town. With an active and vibrant atmosphere, students in Boulder have abundant opportunities to engage in a diverse array of bicycle events and activities, enhancing their cycling experience and fostering a sense of community.
Ann Arbor, Michigan
Ann Arbor is a college town with many opportunities for students. The city offers more than 50 miles (80 kilometres) of bike lanes and trails and is home to the University of Michigan, which has a bike-friendly campus. In addition to good cycling opportunities, Ann Arbor is also a fairly walkable city, with numerous stores and restaurants within a short walk of campus.
Corvallis, Oregon
Corvallis, a small city brimming with warmth and charm, leaves a lasting impression. With an extensive network of over 30 miles (48 kilometres) of bike lanes and trails, the city emphasizes its commitment to cycling. Oregon State University, nestled in Corvallis, sets an exemplary standard as a highly bike-friendly campus. Moreover, Corvallis takes pride in its eco-consciousness, earning its reputation as a green city.
Portland, Oregon
Portland, renowned for its fervent adoration of bicycles, stands as a testament to its bike-loving culture. With an extensive network of over 400 miles (644 kilometres) of bike lanes and trails, the city showcases its dedication to providing a cyclist-friendly environment. Portland State University, located within the city, exemplifies this commitment as a highly bike-friendly campus. Embracing its reputation as a bike-friendly city, Portland offers an array of bike-sharing programs and hosts numerous events that cater to the cycling community, further enriching the biking experience for residents and visitors alike.
Seattle, Washington
Seattle, a city brimming with opportunities for students, offers a multitude of attractions. Boasting an extensive network of over 100 miles (161 kilometres) of bike lanes and trails, Seattle provides an ideal environment for cycling enthusiasts. The University of Washington exemplifies the city’s commitment to cycling, featuring a highly bike-friendly campus that caters to the needs of riders. In addition to its bike-friendly infrastructure, Seattle’s vibrant atmosphere fosters an active lifestyle, presenting students with abundant chances to participate in exciting cycling events and engage in various cycling activities.
Amsterdam, Netherlands
Amsterdam, famous for its charming canals and deep-rooted cycling culture, stands out as a city that cherishes bicycles. With an extensive network of over 500 miles (805 kilometres) of bike lanes and trails, Amsterdam provides cyclists with a vast expanse to explore and commute with ease. The University of Amsterdam exemplifies the city’s dedication to cycling, boasting a highly bike-friendly campus that accommodates riders effectively.
Copenhagen, Denmark
Copenhagen, renowned for its vibrant bike culture, stands as a city that truly embraces cycling. Boasting an extensive network of over 350 miles (563 kilometres) of bike lanes and trails, the city provides ample opportunities for cyclists to navigate its streets with ease. The University of Copenhagen exemplifies the city’s commitment to cycling, offering one of the best bike-friendly campuses that cater to the needs of riders. Moreover, Copenhagen’s dedication to promoting cycling extends beyond the university campus, with an abundance of bike-sharing programs and exciting events that further enhance its reputation as a remarkably bike-friendly city.
Berlin, Germany
Renowned for its diversity and passion for cycling, Berlin stands as a city that embraces bikes. With an impressive network of over 1,000 miles (1,609 kilometres) of bike lanes and trails, cyclists in Berlin enjoy a vast expanse to explore. The Humboldt University of Berlin has a campus that fosters a bike-friendly environment as well. Furthermore, Berlin has numerous bike-sharing programs and events that help make the city even more bike-friendly.
Benefits of bike-centric university communities
Promoting cycling in university cities yields numerous benefits. The emphasis on cycling as a mode of transportation helps reduce traffic congestion, resulting in improved air quality and reduced carbon emissions. Regular cycling also enhances physical fitness and mental well-being, positively impacting the overall health of students and residents. Additionally, a bike-friendly environment fosters a sense of community and social interaction among students, creating vibrant and liveable university campuses.
Last thoughts
Cycling presents an enjoyable and convenient mode of transportation, particularly for students. Bike-friendly university cities offer a range of facilities and provisions that ensure a seamless biking experience when commuting to campus. These cities prioritise well-maintained bike lanes and trails, bike-sharing programs, and infrastructure designed with cyclists in mind. Moreover, the presence of a vibrant cycling culture within these cities fosters a supportive environment where students can connect with like-minded individuals for guidance and motivation. If you are contemplating attending a university in a bike-friendly city, it is crucial to conduct thorough research and select a city that caters to your specific needs and preferences. With an abundance of exceptional choices available, you are certain to discover the ideal bike-friendly university city that aligns with your requirements.
Once you’ve found a city you like and have secured your place in a local university, you’ll need to find student accommodation. Student.com offers great accommodation options in more than 400 cities worldwide, so make sure to check out our offering when you start your search for your ideal student home!
