Discover the benefits of a sustainable and active commute
As spring arrives in Sydney, it’s the perfect time to get out and enjoy the benefits of sustainable and active commuting.
Whether you prefer cycling, walking, or taking public transport, there are plenty of benefits to leaving the car at home. Not only does it save you money and improve your fitness, but you'll be doing your part to reduce the University’s carbon footprint. Visit the Getting to Campus page to explore different ways of travelling to your campus.
We caught up with Rowan, the USU Bike Doctor, for tips on cycling to campus and making the most of active commuting options. Plus, read on to find out how you could win a free bike service by sharing your favorite cycling scene on your way to campus!
Getting started on two wheels
If you’re new to cycling, Rowan’s first piece of advice is to start simple.
"I would recommend getting a second-hand, but functional bike. The more run-down it looks, the better – it can help deter would-be thieves," he said. "The more you spend on a bike, the more you'll need to spend on a lock."
If you don't live within cycling distance from campus, combining biking with public transport is a great way to cut down on your commute time.
"You can bring your bike on NSW trains to make the final leg from Redfern to campus quicker," Rowan suggests.
Planning your route
Finding the best route to campus can be daunting for first-time cyclists, but Rowan has a simple solution.
"Google Maps shows bike paths across the city. If your route doesn’t have dedicated bike paths, and you want to avoid aggressive Sydney drivers, use the side paths and make sure you have a bell for pedestrians."
Rowan’s top tip? Stick to quieter roads where possible for a smoother ride.
You can only use Trip Planner or Cycleway Finder to find routes near you.
Win a free bike tune-up
Want to give your bike a little extra love? You can win one of 15 free tune-ups with the USU Bike Doctor!
Share a photo of your favourite cycling scene around campus, and you’ll be in the running to have your bike serviced by Rowan and the team. Don’t miss this chance to keep your ride in top shape for the semester ahead!
Bike parking facilities are located across the campus.
Parking and on-campus facilities
With bike racks located throughout the University, there’s plenty of space to lock up your ride. Rowan recommends busy areas like Eastern Avenue for added security, but if you’ve got a high-end bike, it’s worth considering keyed access facilities.
"There are spots like at Carslaw, Susan Wakil, and RD Watt where students can park in secure areas using their access cards," he said.
For those who commute longer distances, Redfern Station also offers secure bike sheds accessible via your Opal card.
Cycling or walking to campus has never been easier with the range of end-of-trip facilities available on campus. Showers, lockers, and change rooms are available across the University, making it simple to freshen up after your commute.
Whether you’re heading straight to class or meeting up with friends, these facilities ensure a smooth transition from bike or foot to your daily routine. You can find bike parking options and end of trip facilities on campus using Campus Maps
Why choose cycling?
For Rowan, the benefits of cycling go beyond saving money.
"Living near the city center, biking is often the fastest and cheapest way to get to campus," he said. "For example, it takes me 15 minutes to ride to Barangaroo compared to 30 minutes by public transport."
Not only is cycling efficient, but it’s also a great way to stay active and reduce your carbon footprint.
Cycling can also be a great way to make friends on campus.
Navigating the challenges
Of course, commuting by bike has its challenges, particularly dealing with busy roads and sidewalks.
"The worst part is managing traffic, but if you plan your route well, you can avoid the worst of it by sticking to quieter side streets," Rowan advises.
With a bit of preparation, you’ll find cycling can be a stress-free and rewarding way to travel.
The Bike Dr, located in Manning House near the Hockey fields.
Affordable bike services on campus
One of the biggest advantages for cyclers at the University is the subsidised bike services provided by the USU.
"Most bike shops around the city cater to sports cyclists, with higher prices that don’t really suit the average commuter," Rowan explains. "The USU subsidises the Bike Doctor service to offer a more affordable option for the student community."
Whether you need a quick tune-up or more significant repairs, the The Bike Doctor is here to help keep you rolling smoothly.
Looking for more?
If you’re interested in trying out cycling but don’t yet have a bike, shared services like Lime are also available around campus, offering an affordable and accessible alternative for short trips.
With plenty of support on hand, cycling to and from campus has never been easier. Whether you're looking for a faster way to get to class or just want to enjoy the beautiful weather, active commuting is a great option. So, why not give it a try this semester?
Connect with Sustainability at Sydney
To learn more about how you can make a difference, get involved with sustainability initiatives across campus, and discover more sustainable tips, connect with the Sustainability team.
Sign up for the sustainability mailing list or follow @sustainability_usyd on Instagram. Together, we can create a healthier, more sustainable community – one step, ride, or journey at a time.