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Phantom of the bike rack
U-Bike’s “phantom biker” begins Oct. 1
By Yamin Masalkhi
“We want to show as many people as possible the benefits of riding a bike” – UWM U-Bike Program Coordinator Zac Driscoll
A new program by the UW–Milwaukee’s U-Bike program is promoting bicycle use around campus while simulteanously rewarding those who regularly ride.
Although U-Park and bus programs help a lot of students, those that live a little closer to campus sometimes find themselves taking a 20 or 30 minute walk to class.
Arguably the quickest way to cut that time is by biking. And in the month of October, there’s going to be an even bigger incentive than just saving time or money.
UWM’s U-Bike, an Adventure Center program, is organizing an event called “The Phantom Biker” that will give students who ride their bikes a chance at winning prizes. The “phantom” will set out Oct. 1, placing tags on the handlebars of bikes all over campus. These tags will have information on the economic, health, and environmental benefits of biking.
"Riding is good for you, environmentally friendly and inexpensive,” said UWM U-Bike Program Coordinator Zac Driscoll. “Not to mention it's quicker than the bus and you get to enjoy the outdoors. I really don't know how much more you could ask for from your transportation source."
Some lucky bikers will find winning tags on their handlebars, which can be redeemed for prizes at the Adventure Center. Prizes include gift cards to Alterra and Roots, as well as Adventure Center Trip coupons. The coupons can be used for outings like horseback riding, kayaking, sailing, rock climbing and more.
With gas prices around the four dollar mark, filling up the gas tank has become a financial burden for many people. For that and other reasons, bikes can be a much simpler option.
“I like to ride my bike around campus because it offers me a quick way to get to class, and maneuver my way through nearby areas,” said UWM political science major Abrar Ali.
For those students that don’t have bikes but would like one to get to school, U-Bike allows students to borrow bikes, for up to a full semester.
This semester, 33 bikes were borrowed to students. U-Bike also offers a 24-hour rental program in case students need a bike for a short amount of time.
“We want to show as many people as possible the benefits of riding a bike," said Driscoll.
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