No matter where you park, always secure your bike properly:
- Lock the frame, not just a wheel.
- Use a U-lock instead of a cable lock (cables are easier to cut).
- Lock both the frame and front wheel when possible.
Parking alternatives
Bike racks: parking on campus
- Outdoor racks are available across campus, including at academic buildings, residence halls, dining halls, and other high-traffic areas. Some are covered to shield your bike from weather.
- Indoor racks can be found on the ground floor of all IU parking garages. These provide added protection from the elements and are great if you're parking near a garage-accessible building.
Find the closest rack: Bike Rack Map
Secure indoor bike parking
- Ballantine Bike Hub offers 24/7 short-term indoor bike parking for students, faculty, and staff with a valid CrimsonCard. It holds over 100 bikes and includes bike repair station.
- Secure bike rooms are available to residents of 3rd & Union, Tulip Tree, Wells Quad, and Walnut Grove Center, with a valid CrimsonCard.
- Briscoe Quad residents may also request access to the Walnut Grove Center bike room. Ask residence staff for more information.
Learn more about Ballantine Bike Hub
Bike lockers: long-term, personal storage
Located near Union Street Center, bike lockers are a great choice for maximum protection from both weather and theft. Available for semester or academic year rental through IU Housing.
Request a locker: Bike Locker Request Form
Locking Best Practices
Secure
Lock the frame and front wheel using a U-lock.
Most secure
Lock the frame, front wheel, and rear wheel.
IU locking policies
Bikes must be locked only to designated bike racks. Locking your bike to any other object may result in it being impounded and a $20 fine.
Common violations include:
- Blocking sidewalks or ADA access
- Parking inside buildings, stairwells, or residence hall hallways
- Locking to fences, trees, signs, benches, or railings
- Taking up more than one rack space
Tip: Register your bike with Parking Operations to receive warnings before any removal.
If your bike is missing and may have been impounded, contact the Office of Parking Operations with a description of your bike and your bike permit number. You have 90 days to claim it. After that, unclaimed bikes may be sold through IU Surplus or donated to the Bloomington Community Bike Project.