As the spring temperatures begin their climb, so do the number of cyclists on campus. 

Biking is a great resource for reaching class, getting exercise or running errands. Unfortunately, too many campus two-wheelers abuse their mode of transportation to the detriment of non-cyclists. Getting around campus is not always easy and those that use our infrastructure need to respect other’s boundaries. Cyclists, for their part, need to practice proper bike etiquette. 

First, streets are not bike trails with special rules. 

Cyclists: We think it’s great you don’t spew pollution into our air, but that doesn’t put you above being treated like a car when using our roads. One-way signs, crosswalks and red lights are not friendly suggestions, they are safety and efficiency features that apply to anyone using our streets. Using signals to let motorists know when you’re turning is important because they cannot read your mind. Installing lights on your bicycle to use at night will also help motorists see you and keep you safe. Biking with your headphones on while texting or making a call is just as annoying and dangerous as when motorists do the same.

Second, stick to the bike paths and use common sense. 

This University is blessed with an extensive system of bike paths that we encourage cyclists to use as often as they can. But as we’ve said before, campus bike paths are not perfect. Many are narrow, ill-maintained and unmarked. But that doesn’t excuse dangerous behaviors. Bike paths and the cyclists using them do not exist in a vacuum. Speeding down the bike paths without a watchful eye for foot-travelers is inexcusable; pedestrians have a right — and often find it necessary — to cross paths in order to get to their destination. Assuming pedestrians use proper diligence, they should be able to do so without fear of disfigurement. 

Finally, riding on sidewalks should be done with care or not be ridden on at all. 

We understand that biking on the sidewalk may be a necessary part of the campus commute. But keep in mind that sidewalks are designed for pedestrians — they have the right-of-way. On crowded walkways, especially during passing periods, if you need to use a footpath, get off and walk your bike. Ramming through pedestrians like bowling pins or riding on people’s heels at a snail’s pace helps no one get anywhere.

Now, while we do think bikers form a significant part of the transportation problems and risks on campus, there is other blame to go around.

Dearest pedestrians: the bike paths on campus are meant for bikes. They are not people paths — don’t treat them as such. Inattentive walking, running or loitering on the bike paths just gives bikers another reason not to use the bike paths and run you down on the sidewalks. 

Motorists: Respect the right of cyclists to ride on the streets. Bikers should be given a full lane to maneuver when using the streets. Riding too close to bikers is just asking for an accident. Bicycles, inherently, are much slower than cars — don’t get frustrated, just go around. 

Travel on campus can be safe and efficient, but there needs to be a respect for and realization of the rules. Bikers on campus need to hop off their pedestals and join the rest of us. Only then can we achieve some semblance of mobile harmony.