Biking to Campus in La Crosse: What New Students Should Know

Starting college in La Crosse? Congrats—you picked a city that’s basically built for biking. Whether you’re headed to UW-La Crosse, Western Tech, or Viterbo, riding a bike is one of the smartest ways to get around. It’s cheaper than a car, faster than walking, and a lot more fun than waiting for a bus in the rain.

Here’s your quick-start guide to making the most of campus commuting on two wheels.

Plan Your Route Before Day One

La Crosse is bike-friendly, but not every street feels the same. Try a dry run before your first class day. The La Crosse River State Trail connects to a lot of campus areas and offers a calmer ride than busy streets. Downtown has bike lanes, but mornings can be hectic with traffic.

If you’re unsure where to start, check out our Bike La Crosse guide or stop by the shop—we’ll help you map out a safe route that fits your schedule.

Lock It Like You Mean It

Campus racks are everywhere, but don’t skimp on security. A cheap cable lock is basically an invitation. Go with a solid U-lock and secure your frame and at least one wheel.

We carry affordable locks that actually work. Come see us before you trust your bike to the first random rack you find.

Pick the Right Bike for Student Life

You don’t need a race bike to get across town. What you do need is something reliable, comfortable, and easy to maintain. Commuter e-bikes from Aventon are great for getting to class sweat-free, Addmotor trikes are perfect if you want stability and cargo space, and folding Blaupunkt bikes make dorm or apartment storage a breeze.

Looking for something budget-friendly? We’ve got used bikes and gear that won’t break the bank.

Be Weather-Ready

La Crosse weather changes fast. Packable rain gear, fenders, and a set of lights can turn a stressful ride into just another day. If you’re biking into late fall, consider gloves and layers you can stash in your bag.

Students, We’ve Got You Covered

Need a tune-up for a hand-me-down bike? Want to test ride an e-bike to see if it fits your commute? We assemble and service all the bikes we sell—and plenty we don’t. Contact us or stop by the shop. We’ll make sure your bike is ready for the semester.