Bike Share ProgramSustainability

The Gustavus bike share program was started by the Student Athlete Volunteer Educators (S.A.V.E.) in 2016. In 2021 the Johnson Center for Environmental Innovation took over the program. With the new recreation program that started in 2022 the bike share program moved to the recreation lending program.

There is a fleet of traditional bicycles and electric bicycles (e-bikes) that can be loaned free of charge to Gusties who want to get around campus and explore the St. Peter area. Bikes can be checked out for 4 hours, 24 hours or the weekend. Those who want to check out an e-bike must complete training prior to check out. Contact the recreation lending program at g-lending@gustavus.edu to schedule training.

Rules and Safety

All Gustavus bikes:

  • Operate in bike lanes when available, on streets, and designated campus sidewalks or shared-use paths, and only on paved surfaces.
  • Yield to pedestrians at all times.
  • When passing pedestrians, slow down and allow plenty of clearance.
  • Obey all traffic signs and signals, follow traffic laws, and ride with the flow of traffic. Do not travel the wrong way in a bike lane or on a street.
  • Always use clear hand signals.
  • Dismount and walk bikes in heavily congested pedestrian areas.
  • Bikes are to be used for mobility purposes only. Racing, stunt and trick riding is prohibited.
  • Riding Gustavus bikes on and off campus is strictly prohibited from sunset to sunrise.
  • Follow all bicycle rules and regulations from Campus Safety.

Gustavus e-bikes:

  • Operating an e-bike over 20mph is strictly prohibited.
  • Use of a helmet while operating an e-bike is required.
  • Use of headphones or ear buds while operating an e-bike is prohibited.
  • E-bikes must stay on designated preferred sidewalk routes on campus (see map below).
  • When operating on allowed campus sidewalks, riders are required to stay at or below pedal assist level 1.

Gustavus_Motorized_Personal_Mobility_Vehicle_MPMV_Policy 

Campus Sidewalk Preferred E-bike Routes

Gusties on the Go Map Showing locations of important sites and preferred biking pathways

FAQs

How do I check out a Gustavus bike?

Gustavus bikes can be checked out in person from the Gustavus Recreation Office in Room 222 Johnson Student Union from 8:00am-4:00pm M-F. Bikes are located in Nobel Hall, room 1321 just inside the West entrance across from Olin Hall. When you check out a bike, you will check out a key to access the bike room, and another for the bike lock. You may check out a bike for 4 hours, 24 hours, or a weekend. Bikes are checked out on a first-come-first-serve basis in person. You may inquire about bike availability by emailing g-lending@gustavus.edu or texting 507-995-1484.

What is an e-bike?

An electric bike functions as a normal bike with an electric-powered motor attachment that can assist riders up hills.

Do I need training to use an e-bike?

Yes. In order to check out and use a Gustavus e-bike you must have completed the required training. Sign up for a training by contacting the recreation lending program at g-lending@gustavus.edu. You do not need training to check out a traditional bike.

How long can I use a Gustavus bike?

Gustavus bikes can be checked out for 4 hours, 24 hours or the weekend (if bikes are available). 

Do I need to leave my Student ID with the front desk to check out a bike?

No, you may keep your student ID with you. When you check out a bike they will record your information and alloted check-out time. If the bike is not returned after your alloted check-out time, you will be contacted.

What safety equipment is required?

Helmets are provided in the bike room and are required to ride e-bikes. You may also use your own helmet if you have one.

How do I return a Gustavus bike and keys?

You must bring the bike back to the bike room where you originally picked it up - Nobel 1321. Please place your keys in the dropbox outside the Gusties on the Go room. Failure to return your keys will result in a $75 charge.

What happens if I lose my key or don’t return it?

Failure to return your key will result in a $75 charge.

Do I need to lock my bike?

Yes, all Gustavus bikes come with locks with manual keys that should be used whenever your bike is parked, including indoors if checked out overnight.

What do I do if I my e-bike runs out of battery?

You will need to pedal it back to the bike room (Nobel 1321) like you would a traditional bike, to charge or return, depending on your check-out duration.

What do I do if my bike (either type) has an operational issue? (non-emergency: e.g. a flat tire, chain or gear issues)

Bring the bike back to the bike room - Nobel 1321. If the bike is unable to be ridden or walked back, you can call Campus Safety or a friend to pick you and the bike up. Please document the issue as best as possible and email g-lending@gustavus.edu. Additionally, we encourage leaving a note with the bike when you return it. If a bike is returned in need of serious repair and the recreation program is not notified, you will be contacted and may be held responsible.