The Notre Dame Bike Fest was held last Friday afternoon on South Quad. The annual event was organized by RecSports to raise awareness about biking and provide information about biking opportunities in South Bend. “The event is great way to promote biking as an alternative form of transportation that is fun, inexpensive, and good for your health as well as the environment,” remarked senior Alicia Vasto.
One hundred and forty bikes were repaired and tuned up for free by RecSports volunteers. “All of the students were phenomenal in helping to get my bike in better riding riding shape. They pumped up my tires, oiled the chain and did a full maintenance inspection!” said junior Elizabeth Davis. “I am so glad we are able to have Bike Fest on campus!”
Local retailers were also available improve or upgrade bikes. Additionally, instructors and representatives from Notre Dame Cycling were present to explain different techniques and facets of cycling, and provided information about club activities.
Biking is a good way to stay healthy and reduce your carbon footprint. The average person loses 13 pounds in the first year of regular cycling, and cycling three times per week reduces your risk of heart disease by 50%. Biking to campus also saves money on gas and reduces vehicle maintenance costs. Getting to and from campus is much quicker because bikers avoid traffic and crowded parking lots. Personal vehicles in the US use over 65 billion gallons of gas each year; do your part to reduce the consumption!