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Bike to Campus

Riding a bicycle to work is a commuting option that can have economic, environmental, and health benefits. All Northwestern Shuttles have bike racks, making riding a great option.

Bikes on Shuttles

All Northwestern shuttles have bike racks on them, making shuttle riding and biking a great option.

Safety

View the University Police web page on bicycle safety.

Bicycle Registration

Bicycle registration is strongly recommended for everyone who bikes on campus. Along with a good lock and proper locking technique, it is also the easiest way to keep your bicycle safe.

Northwestern has partnered with 529 Garage to provide free, easy, and fast registration.

Once registered, a free helmet and light are available to all faculty, staff, and students. Simply fill out the Bike Helmet Registration form. Be sure to know the size helmet that is needed by first measuring your head. The manufacturer recommends Small/Medium if less than 22.75 inches and Large/Extra Large if over 23 inches. After registering your bike and filling out the online form you will need to bring your Wildcard and 529 Garage registration confirmation to the selected Parking Office to receive your helmet and light. Once you have your helmet review The League of American Bicyclists’ Bike Helmets webpage for tips on how to correctly adjust your helmet for the safest fit.

Bicycle Parking

For pedestrian safety, please lock your bike to designated racks only. Locking to a fence can add to sidewalk congestion, and locking on a building ramp will constrict access for those who need to use the ramp. The Evanston campus has over 100 racks, and the Chicago campus offers racks and a secure bike room. ABUS U-Lock bike locks are available for purchase by University faculty, staff, and students with presentation of an active Wildcard. Two sizes are available: large 9" U-Lock for $67 and small 5.5" U-Lock for $50.  Locks can be purchased from the Parking Offices located in Evanston (1841 Sheridan Road, Segal Visitors Center) or Chicago (710 N. Lake Shore Drive, Abbott Hall). 

You are also encouraged to register your bike with 529 Garage. Once you do so, you are eligible to receive a free helmet and light.

Divvy Bike Share

Divvy is the bike share system serving the City of Chicago and Evanston. There are a multitude of docking stations on and around both campuses and is a great alternative to owning a bike. They offer discounted annual memberships to University students, faculty, and staff. Visit the Divvy Bike Share Wildcard Advantage page for discount details.

Shower Facilities

Both campuses offer free shower facilities for those who bike to campus. The facilities in Evanston are in a restricted area so you need to register with Transportation Services in order to use them. Simply email Transportation Services to register. In Chicago, facilities are available at the Lake Shore Chicago Park District Fitness Center at 808 N. Lake Shore Drive. Visitors must sign in at the front desk. Showering privileges are available year round except during the Fitness Center’s six weeks of summer camps and when the Fitness Center is closed for holidays.

Note: Showering privileges do not give anyone permission to access other parts of the Fitness Center unless they are a member of Chicago Park District or have a Northwestern intramural card.

Repair Stations

Both campuses now offer repair stations, including tire pumps. Locations can be found on the sustainNU Sustainability Map.

Other Resources

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