Safety Guidelines
- Always check your bike carefully before riding it.
- Make certain the chain is on and all nuts and bolts are properly tightened.
- Be sure the seat, handlebars, and any quick release parts are secure.
- Inspect your bike thoroughly for any damaged or defective parts which may cause an accident once you are riding. Wear a helmet to protect your head in case of an accident.
- Eye protection is also recommended to keep bugs, dirt, and other debris from getting into your eyes.
- Equip your bike with the proper safety attachments, including an audible warning device, a headlight and a tail light.
- Obey all traffic laws when riding your bike, and remain alert for potential hazards. Drains can trap your wheel and cause an accident. Motorists opening a door into the roadway can also cause injury. Be aware of vehicles passing you, and always check over your shoulder or in your bike mirror before crossing a lane of traffic.
Bicycles are a convenient, practical, and efficient way to get around campus, as well as an enjoyable and healthy means of recreation. The SSU Department of Public Safety encourages the use of bicycles, especially instead of driving a car; we ask only that cyclists abide by all other laws enacted for their own safety.
Bikes and the Law
Section 4511.55(A) of the Ohio Revised Code (ORC) requires persons riding bicycles in a roadway to do so in compliance with all applicable motor vehicle laws. This means cyclists must ride on the right hand side of the road (not against the flow of traffic) and also obey all traffic control devices such as stop signs, stop lights, and one way signs. A good rule of thumb when riding your bike in a roadway is to do so just as you would drive your car. Section 4511.53 of the ORC prohibits passengers from riding on bicycles, and requires all bikes to have a firmly attached seat. The same section also prohibits carrying anything on a bike which requires two hands to hold. Section 4511.55(B) prohibits more than two bicycles from riding abreast in a roadway.
Bicycle Registration
SSU Department of Public Safety offers free bicycle registration. Registering your bicycle and participating in the Operation ID program will increase your chances of recovery if your bicycle should be lost or stolen.
Click here for the bicycle registration form (PDF)
Where to Ride Bikes
Bikes may be ridden in any local roadway or area where motorized vehicle operation is permitted. Shawnee State University prohibits riding bicycles on sidewalks on campus.
View a map of permitted bike paths on campus (PDF)
Additionally, Portsmouth City Ordinance 373 prohibits bicycle riding on sidewalks in business districts.
All bikes must be parked in one of the bike rack locations. Do not lock bikes to other fixtures, including light poles or handrails.