Illinois, Spring has finally begun! The birds are singing, the sun is shining, the flowers are smiling, and perhaps most exciting: the snow has officially melted. With that news there are certain benefits for bike riders in the Champaign- Urbana area.

All this means one thing. It is time to get back on the road. No more waiting for the snowplows, or trudging through the cold by foot, or slipping and sliding right at the bus stop before shoving past strangers onto a stuffy bus. This means bikers can finally pull their sunglasses AND helmets out to go on a wonderous ride. Perhaps the sweet spring breeze will be by your side.

But before you are on your way out the door, it is important to check in on your bikes. Ensure the winter season didn’t weather you bicycle. Assess the damage, or the lack thereof. The wet cold may have rusted your chains. Your gears may have shifted, or your tires may need air.

‘Regular’ maintenance becomes more of a necessity at the end of a seasons change. That is where we, Bike at Illinois, come in. On our available days, the doctor is in for a quick check-up. What’s more, you might even pick up a trick or two on the upkeep of your own bicycle. Visit the Campus Bike Center (https://go.illinois.edu/cbc) at 51 E. Gregory Dr., Champaign, IL to learn more.

We can’t say it enough, Spring is here folks. Urbana-Champaign’s self-proclaimed biking season is right around the corner!

Always remember that safety comes first, singing birds aside! Please wear a helmet, never forget to lock your bike and respect the rules of the rode. When in doubt, remember that we have got your back. You can reach us at bike@illinois.edu and follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

Authored by:

Nandika Chatterjee
Senior in Communication and Psychology