Hello everyone!!  Welcome back to campus!  We are very excited about spring 2019, and having all of you here with us once again.

Of course, it doesn't feel all that much like spring yet, with the winter storm hitting last weekend and another one on its way.  I hope some of you took advantage of the suggestions from our December 10 post, How to Winter Proof your Bike. We have a few additional resources for you, as the storms flow through over the coming semester.

~ You can check out the U of I Weather page for the most up to date weather predictions.

~ Bicycling Magazine offers advice on winter cycling gear.

~ The CU Mass Transit District can move both you AND your bike, when needed.

~ Snow removal in the University District is coordinated by Facilities & Services, the City of Urbana, and the City of Champaign.

~ If you wonder about riding in winter conditions, you may like to read this article by People for Bikes.  I've quoted a key section about safe riding after it snows:

...biggest bit of advice is to take your time and pay attention. Take turns wider on sloppy road conditions, and watch out for places where the weight of cars has packed snow down into irregular ice lumps—those can be tricky. Ride on clear pavement when you can and don’t be afraid to take the lane if the street is too narrow due to snow banks for safe passing.

If you an encounter a spot that looks too slippery for you to ride over, don’t hesitate to dismount. Keep one hand on the brake lever and you can lean on your bike for extra stability as you walk through the tricky sections. As you ride, periodically lightly squeeze your brakes to clear off any snow or ice that may have been accummulating as your ride, and if you have to stop, do so as gradually as conditions allow.

We can't wait to see you around the trails!  Remember to have fun and be safe.