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Bikes, scooters, motorcycles

Bicycles, scooters, e-bikes/e-scooters and motorcycles can be cost effective, efficient ways to navigate VCU’s urban environment. They also present safety issues when not used properly. It is critical to take steps to learn how to operate them safely on roadways and protect these financial investments from theft.

Cycling Safety Tips

  • When riding on roadways, follow traffic signals and signage.
  • Riding a bike on the sidewalk is legal, but you must yield to people walking or rolling.
  • Use hand signals.
  • If one is available, use a bike path.
  • Always be aware of your surroundings; avoid using headphones or earbuds while riding.
  • Consider wearing bright/reflective clothing and bike lights, especially at night, to make yourself more visible.
  • A front light and rear reflector are required after dark, and a red tail light is required on roadways with posted speeds of 35 mph or greater.
  • Wearing a helmet is recommended.
  • Be aware of VCU’s biking regulations and Virginia bike safety laws.

Visit the VCU Rambikes site for more information on bicycle resources. Rambikes is located at 1106 W. Broad Street (on Broad Street near Harrison). Call (804) 828-BIKE(2453) or email rambikes@vcu.edu.

Scooter, E-bike and Motorcycle Safety

Drivers of scooters and motorcycles are required to wear VDOT approved helmets regardless of engine size. Scooters and motorcycles follow the same traffic laws and regulations as other motor vehicles. You cannot drive them on sidewalks and must follow the line of traffic – no cutting in between cars or lanes.

Scooters

You do not need a driver’s license to operate a scooter or moped that has a 50-cc engine output (or less) with a maximum speed of 35 mph. If a scooter has a 50-cc engine output (or more), it is considered a motorcycle (see below). All scooters should be registered through the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles. You should be aware of restrictions on mopeds, available through the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles.

Motorcycles

Motorcycle operation and equipment are licensed and registered by the Virginia DMV. For an operator’s license, testing and application procedures are the same as for other motor vehicle operator licenses with additional fees.

Bike/Scooter Registration

VCU Police maintains a record of your serial number and a photo of your bike, making it easier to recover a stolen bike. To register your bike, complete the online bicycle registration form or contact our VCU Crime Prevention Team.

Where is my bicycle's serial number?

Common locations for serial numbers on bicycles are on the chain stay, down tube, head tube, and pedal crank. Some serial numbers may be on stickers that can be easily removed. It is best, under these circumstances, to engrave an identification number. Engrave the two-letter abbreviation for your licensing state and your driver's license number. This number is unique to you and traceable by law enforcement.

Other Bike Notes

  • VCU Police recommends that cyclists use U-locks. The department can provide VCU students, faculty and staff with a free U-lock (while supplies last).
  • Visit VCU Police headquarters at 224 E. Broad St. for a free U-lock or email crimeprevreq@vcu.edu to arrange a pick-up. NOTE: You must register your bike/scooter to receive a free U-lock.
  • For registration inquiries, contact VCU Police at (804) 828-1196.
  • For removal and impound inquiries, contact VCU Facilities at (804) 828-9444.
  • The Virginia Department of Transportation has a list of bicycle laws available online for your review: Bicycling and walking in Virginia.

Protect your investment

E-bike and e-scooter theft does occur around both VCU and VCU Health. In an overwhelming majority of cases, the vehicles are not secured properly or the security devices used are inadequate.

Motor vehicle theft is most often a crime of opportunity, so keep yourself from becoming
an easy target:

Motor vehicle theft (e-bikes, scooters, motorcycles)

  • Use a U-lock or heavy metal chain to secure the vehicle.
  • Properly attach the vehicle to an immovable object – like a bike or scooter rack.
  • Secure an e-bike by attaching your lock around the frame, NOT the wheels or handlebars.
  • For e-scooters, thread the lock through the frame and wheel of your vehicle; this prevents someone from simply sliding the e-scooter through the U-lock or chain.
  • Lock motorcycles using a thick chain and heavy-duty padlock. Lock the forks or disc brakes.
  • Try to position locking mechanisms facing the ground, which makes it more difficult to tamper with.
  • Consider installing anti-theft devices – like a kill-switch, AirTag or other GPS tracking devices.
  • Secure your helmet with a helmet lock, or take it with you. Take any valuables with you, or lock them in saddle bags.
  • If you see people trying to move multiple motorcycles or scooters, contact VCU Police to report suspicious behavior.
  • If you would like to discuss theft prevention strategies in more detail, VCU Police’s crime prevention specialists are available at 804-828-1209.

Virginia Commonwealth University is a nationally renowned public research institution dedicated to the success and well-being of all members of its community. VCU student, faculty and staff groups and associations are open without regard to any characteristic or identity protected by law.