By KEVIN ALLEN

Staff Writer

As an alternative to driving an automobile or walking, some students choose to pedal their way around campus.

Fang Meng, a biomedical engineering graduate student, said he uses a bicycle as his primary mode of transportation.

"One advantage is the time saved," Meng said. "Also, because of the speed, you can feel the wind when you are riding and avoid the heat from the sun."

Meng said he lives near Tech Farm and makes the seven-minute ride to campus on days when the weather permits.

"On rainy days it's inconvenient to ride a bicycle from home to campus," Meng said.

Meng said there are very few obstacles on campus that make riding a bicycle difficult. He also said pedestrians and motorists are usually cooperative.

"Here in Ruston, people are very kind," Meng said. "They always let me go first. If they don't see me, I will say, 'Excuse me,' and they let me get by."

After making the trip to campus, Meng said, he does not feel uncomfortable leaving his bicycle unattended.

"I use a lock, but I think even if I didn't have a lock it wouldn't get stolen," Meng said.

Tech Police Chief Stephen Quinnelly said he does not see a lot of bicycle thefts.

"One of the reasons there aren't a lot of bicycle thefts on campus is that people do use locks," Quinnelly said. "Also, a lot of students keep their bicycles inside their rooms, which is more secure than keeping them outside."

Meng said he purchased a used bicycle from a friend for about $30 and was especially glad he made the investment because of the recreational enjoyment it offered.

Meng said he recently rode 40 miles with some friends, from 8 a.m. to noon, around the Ruston area.

"I encourage everyone to ride bicycles," Meng said. "It is very enjoyable and also a good way to exercise."