As temperatures rise, ISU students are less likely to take Cy-Ride between classes. On the large ISU campus, where walking between classes often takes too long and parking is impossible, many students are turning to bicycles as their mode of transportation.

Although Ames has multiple biking spots, many larger cities have easier access and safer routes for bicyclers, said Debra Atkinson, senior lecturer in health and human performance and personal trainer for Ames Racquet & Fitness. She said Ames is lacking in biking convenience.

“With so many people using cars and buses, it is sometimes risky for bikers. We could use more paths in Ames,” Atkinson said.

The ISU campus has bike lanes on a few of its roads.

Atkinson said students can save time bicycling to class by avoiding traffic, long walks and waits at the bus stop. Carrying items is also easy and quick traveling via bicycle, she said.

David Samuelson, sophomore in pre-computer science, said there are many advantages to biking.

“It’s much faster to bike to class, and I’m late a lot, so I need to be fast. It’s good exercise and feels great to have the wind in your hair,” Samuelson said.

During CNN medical correspondent Dr. Sanjay Gupta’s recent visit to campus, he asked the audience to come up with possible plans to implement at Iowa State and in Ames to increase the health of its citizens. One of the main suggestions revolved around increased bike use.

“Biking to class is an easy way to increase alertness. Any time you can find to squeeze in small bits of extra activity can be beneficial,” Atkinson said.

Although the weather is pleasant now, it will not last forever. Atkinson said bicycles can be used year-round if the rider dresses for the elements. Rain gear and fenders can be purchased for rainy days, and layers and snow-suited tires can make winter biking a possibility, said Ronn Ritz, co-owner of Skunk River Cycles, 308 Main St.

“Riders are forced to pay more attention to their surroundings, and many find a new appreciation for the environment and its health,” Ritz said.

Samuelson said it is important to be aware of your surroundings while biking. While riding to class down an icy path last winter, he was forced off the path by a group of walking students. When he attempted to hop back on the path, his tire got stuck on the edge and he fell.

Samuelson said a biker has to make quick decisions to avoid injury while riding.

Ritz said bikes are very practical.

“Many people drive somewhere with their bike on the back of their car, and bike the rest of the way to save time and money,” he said.

Ritz said bicycles can also be analogous with both street and sidewalk traffic.

“Bikes are required to follow traffic laws, but can mix in with the pedestrian flow in campus,” Ritz said.