Cycling is a cheap, fast and effective way of getting around Cambridge. But it’s important that you use your bike safely. Please work through the following resources, paying particular attention if you’re new to cycling on roads.
Registering your Bike
You must register your bike with the Porters’ Lodge; University regulations require it. This will help you recover your bike if it’s stolen.
Please visit the Lodge to borrow a special pen with which to mark your bike. We advise that you mark it twice, once in a very obvious place, and again in a more hidden place. You should use the letters Chu followed by your account number (as quoted on the back of your University Card).
Bikes which are not registered, do not display the tag, or which are incorrectly marked will be removed.
Storing your Bike in College
There are five locked bike–stores near the squash courts. Sheds 1–3 are opened with a code, which can be obtained from the Porters’ Lodge. Sheds 4 and 5 require a special key. The cost of hiring the key is £10.00 for the duration of your stay. The key must be returned to the Porters’ Lodge at the end of your stay for security reasons. Bikes are not permitted in rooms or in the confines of the College.
Please do not leave bikes against the bridge, pond, walls or trees in front of College. The Porters have instructions to report offenders to the Dean, and bikes will be removed or double locked in place. In the latter case it will be necessary to apply to the Porters’ Lodge for bikes to be released.
Bike Repairs
We have a bike repair shop on-site, Cambridge Bicycle Workshop. It’s just off Churchill Road, pictured below, in the old potting shed.  This service is open every week day between 8.30am and 3.00pm.
Introduction to Cycling in Cambridge
First, watch this brief video which introduces you to cycling in Cambridge.
Or download this leaflet; it contains similar information.
Remember:
Cambridge traffic can be inconsiderate towards cyclists, and accidents, sometimes serious, happen. For your own safety you are urged to be cautious at all times. The junctions of Storey’s Way with Madingley Road and of Madingley Road with Queens’ Road can be dangerous. Please do not run the risk of cycling with faulty brakes or without proper lights at night (both of which are illegal).
Cycle Lights
It is against the law to cycle without lights and reflectors after dark. Not only is cycling without lights extremely dangerous; you could be stopped by the police and fined. It’s also a good idea to use cycle lights in low visibility conditions, such as rain and fog. Modestly priced cycle lights are available to purchase at the Porter’s Lodge.
CamCycle has a great poster which summarises the requirements.
Keeping your Bike Safe
Bike theft is common in Cambridge. Shiny new sports bikes are particularly popular targets for thieves and all bikes should be secured with a strong lock and chain to a bike rack.
Remember:
- Always lock up your bike before leaving it unattended
- Take any detachable accessories (e.g. lights) with you; these are frequently stolen.
Please read the advice given by CamCycle via the link below. You must also register your bike with the Porters’ Lodge as per the instructions above.
CamCycle Bike Security Information
Further Resources
A comprehensive collection of cycling resources, including advice on maintenance, is available on the CamCycle website.
See Further CamCycle Resources
Non–UK cyclists are strongly advised to consult the “Highway Code”
