Bike to SJSU
Bicycling can be a convenient and dependable form of transportation. It is also the transportation mode that you can get a workout with. The Silicon Valley is an ideal place to commute by bicycling - with its mild weather and relatively flat topography.
Find your route to SJSU using the Santa Clara County Bikeways map or 511's Bikemapper.
About your Bike
Whether your bike is new or old, its gears, chain, brakes, and tires must be in good working order.
Your bike should be sized to fit your body proportions and match your riding style, your skill level, and where you plan to ride. The equipment you need depends on the type of riding you plan to do, but a safety-rated helmet and a strong lock are essential.
If you want to buy a new bicycle, accessories, or need to repair/tune-up your existing bike, Bicycle Express with professional mechanics, friendly staff, and student prices is the bike shop to visit around campus. They are located on East William St. (one block south of campus) between 3rd and 4th streets.
Bikes on Transit
VTA has equipped all buses with exterior bike racks to accommodate two bicycles. Most Highway 17 Express buses have racks that hold three bicycles. On VTA and Highway 17 Express, up to two bicycles may be permitted inside the bus subject to the driver's discretion and passenger loads. Bikes are not allowed inside the bus on the Dumbarton Express.
Cycling on Campus
According to the SJSU Presidential Directive 2007-06 [pdf], bicycles are allowed on most pathways except where appropriate dismount signs are posted or when there's no clear path due to crowding. Bicyclists are expected to follow these "common courtesy" rules:
- Always yield to pedestrians.
- Drive at an appropriate speed according to existing conditions, not to exceed the campus speed limit for all vehicles of five (5) mph.
- Drive in an appropriate manner that does not interfere with pedestrians or campus facilities vehicular traffic.
- Walk your vehicle when there is no clear path ahead, such as when a walkway is too crowded with pedestrians or other obstructions.
- Do not ride in an acrobatic or stunting manner, i.e. activities causing one or more sets of wheels to leave the ground or other surfaces intended for pedestrian or vehicular travel.
- Do not ride on stairs; ramps, railings, vegetation, benches, tables, planters, or other surfaces not intended for vehicular travel.
- Do not ride inside University buildings.
- Dismount and walk vehicle where appropriate signs are posted. Posted dismount areas will be in high pedestrian traffic areas with small or obstructed pathways.
Bicycle Parking on Campus
You can park your bike in open bike racks or in any of the six Bicycle Enclosures located throughout campus. Bike lockers within the enclosures are also available to rent. Visit our bicycle enclosure page for information on how to get an access.
Although the Bicycle Enclosures at SJSU provide an additional layer of security, bicycles
must be secured appropriately inside the enclosures. Lock your bicycle with a solid
U-lock to the bike rack. Most bike thefts occur on bicycles with weaker cable locks.
Watch this video to learn how to properly lock your bike using a U-Lock.
It is illegal to lock bicycles to the bike enclosure fence, railings, benches, poles, trees, tables, or park bikes anywhere that might block an entrance/ exit to a building, office, or area. The University Police will impound the bikes in violation.
The open bike racks are purchased by UPD Parking Services and maintained by SJSU Facilities Development and Operation (FD&O).
The Bicycle Enclosures and the open racks throughout campus provide short-term bicycle parking for daily commuters. The enclosures are not intended to provide overnight or long-term storage.
Shower Facilities for Bicycle Commuters
For bike commuters looking for showers, students have free access to the Student Union Sport Club in the Event Center. All faculty, staff, and students can utilize the showers and lockers in the Kinesiology department in Spartan Complex (SPX 128), which are open during regular business hours.
General Bicycle and Safety Resources
Biking to/from SJSU and Parking
TS Bike to SJSU Brochure [pdf]
Biking for Beginners
A Smart Guide for Every Beginner Cyclist
Top Cycling Tips for Beginners
Safety
The Ultimate Bicycle Safety Guide
How to not get hit by cars (by bicyclesafe.com)
How You Can Ride Better (League of American Bicyclists)
Securing Your Bike
State Laws Related to Bicycles
Bicycle Maintenance & Repair
Additional Resources
Silicon Valley Bicycle Coalition Resources
Bicycle Safety Tips from Department of Motor Vehicles
Tips for Better and Safe Bicycle Rides