Pokes' Spokes Bike Library

Mission/history

The bike library's mission is to encourage alternative means of transportation on the UW–Laramie campus and in the Laramie community. By providing a cost-effective and environmentally friendly incentive for people to commute by bicycle, the Pokes' Spokes Bike Library cuts down on unnecessary car use while helping to create a bicycle culture in Laramie that supports a healthy lifestyle for all members of the community.

This program was initially created by the Associated Students of the University of Wyoming (ASUW), and the UW cycling team in 2005. The Outdoor Program was asked to take over the program in the summer of 2007. Since then, the program has grown the inventory of bikes to over 100.

Eligibility

University of Wyoming students have priority to rent bikes. Faculty and staff are eligible to rent after the second week of the semester if any bikes remain (please call or stop by to find out).

Price

$20 students, $50 faculty/staff per semester. Bikes can be rented for the academic year (Aug.–May) in the fall.

Rentals are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Anyone wishing to extend the check-out period can simply pay an additional semester fee to extend the rental. The cost pays for maintenance and repairs, though this program is subsidized by the ASUW and the Outdoor Program.

Damage and repair

Renters are responsible for repairs that are above and beyond normal wear and tear. We repair bikes with loose chains, bearings or mechanical issues; please bring the bike by and we will fix it at our earliest convenience.

For tire repair, broken or lost locks, damaged or missing seats or parts, please bring in your bike and we will fix it. Please note that we do charge for these services. Bikes returned to us at the end of a rental with issues above-and-beyond normal wear-and-tear will be charged for labor and parts.

Estimated replacement value

$200

Bikes must be secured (but not charged) with a credit card or check. If the equipment is not returned or is returned damaged, renters are responsible for the full retail replacement cost of all equipment regardless of the estimated replacement value.

Available bikes and accessories

The bike library offers two options of bikes: the Giant Simple Single Springer and the Atlas Industrial Cruiser, both models offer easy cruising around campus and town and come in both a men’s and women’s models. Helmets and locks are free with every rental.

Biking resources/regulations and maps

Bikers should be aware of the following UW biking regulations and be aware of the approved biking paths on campus. Students living in the residence halls may also rent a bike locker here (lockers are unnecessary for semester bikes).

Donate to the bike library

A donation of as little as $250 will purchase a new bike, helmet, and lock to add to the library for years to come. Donors who contribute $250 or more are encouraged to name the bike something of their choosing; either to honor someone, or a cause. To make a donation, please go here: https://uwsecureweb.uwyo.edu/giveonline/ and specify the "Outdoor Program Bike Library" in the "gift designation" area. In the "further instructions," you can specify a bike name or any other information to better assist you.