Riding a bike to school can provide freedom from parking debacles, but with a high number of bike thefts on campus, proper precautions are needed.

Ninety-nine bikes have been stolen from the California State University, Fresno campus between January 2008 and July 2009. The majority of bicycle thefts occurred at the Engineering East and Peters Business buildings, according to public information officer, Amy Armstrong.

Just as cars are registered with the State of California, bicycles can also be registered. Campus police provide personal bike registration free of charge, and the DMV will issue tags for the bicycles. This allows any stolen bike to be identified and returned to the registered owner if recovered.

A one page application is required to get a bicycle registered. Officers require that bike owners know the brand of the bike and the frame and wheel size when filling out the paperwork.

Chris Albin, a student on campus, understands the importance of taking preventative measures against bike theft. Albin said he secures his bike using a u-lock. He also said he̢۪s never lost his temper while trying to find a spot on the bike rack, which makes parking fast and convenient.

Authorities realize riding bicycles is becoming more common and a work order has been submitted to install new bike racks at the front of the library.

If students are hesitant to ride their bikes on campus in fear of coming out to find just a front tire locked up to the bike rack, Fresno State offers new and reconditioned bikes for rent. The Red Bike Program on campus rents bicycles with a u-lock for $5 a semester, after deposit. The difference between the new and used bike is the size of the deposit. New bicycles require a $55 deposit, and reconditioned bikes require only $20. Taking advantage of this program can save students the cost of a parking permit and gas.