Forget the Free Laptops

Over the past few years some universities and colleges have provided incoming freshman with free (well, bunded into tuition and fees) laptops, and even more recently, iPhones. The Times reports that now some schools are making bicycles available for free or inexpensive rental. The University of New England spent $50,000 on bikes, helmets and locks. Normally, 75% of freshman bring cars with them, but with the free bike offer this year, only 25% brought cars. There are some caveats, though. Bike maintenance must be factored in and students should be held accountable for the condition of the bikes.