Student riding bike and wearing helmet.

Biking, Scootering and E-Device Need-to-Knows

Quick Summary

  • Review important safety tips, find out where to get free helmets.

UC Davis is a Platinum Rated Bicycle Friendly University, recognized by The League of American Bicyclists for its cycling infrastructure and culture. Bicycling is the number one mode of transportation on campus, followed closely by scootering and other e-devices. With the start of a new school year, take a few minutes to review the rules, resources and tips for getting around campus.


Back to the Basics

Recommended route to get from West Village to Health Sciences and Central Campus
A couple of the recommended bike-safe routes from West Village to Central Campus.

Whether you ride a manual or electric bike, scooter or other device, knowing how to navigate campus is essential. "Bicycle Need to Knows" and "Aggie Cycling 101" cover important rules for getting around campus and Davis.

Protect your ride from theft by using a quality lock. The Transportation Services Bicycle Parking & Security webpage offers tips for properly securing your bike, scooter or e-device.

It is also important to plan ahead for where you will store and charge your transportation device. Storing transportation devices inside university buildings is not allowed except in designated personal spaces such as assigned residences, offices or cubicles or spaces assigned by the responsible facility owner. This rule does not include electric wheelchairs or similar mobility devices.

Additionally, if you are coming to campus from West Village or the Green, Transportation Services has created a guide on the best, and safest, ways to get to campus.

Safety First!

Stay alert, yield to pedestrians and follow traffic signs and signals whenever you ride. Wearing a helmet and using a light are also important ways to protect yourself and others. The Helmet Hair, Don’t Care program provides free helmets to those who complete a short education training and sign the pledge.

Sign: Bike path 15 MPH; scooter, bicycle and board icons; 'All Wheels, All the Time'

The speed limit for bike paths and roadways in the campus core is 15 MPH. Throughout the quarter, UC Davis Police Department, Transportation Services and Student Affairs will set up temporary Safety Corridors at different high traffic locations to share safety information and address prohibited riding behavior. Examples include failing to stop at a stop sign or traffic signal, riding without required lights or reflectors and improper headphone use. No names or IDs will be collected and no citations will be issued.

Remember to ride sober. Riding a bike, scooter or other e-device while under the influence is dangerous and against the law. If you are heading out for the night, Safe Party offers alternative transportation resources to help you get home safely.

Charging electric transportation devices inside publicly accessible university facilities is strictly prohibited due to the risk of indoor fires.

Student bike mechanics work on bikes in the Bike Barn
Student mechanics work on repairs at the Bike Barn. (Karin Higgins/UC Davis)

Need Bike Help?

The Bike Barn is a full service bike shop that provides repairs, bike sales, rentals and more to the UC Davis community and the general public. It is student run and managed, so its staff understand the needs of current students.

Transportation Services offers additional education, resources and services for getting around campus. Whether you bike, scooter, skateboard or use another mode of transportation, learn the rules, plan ahead and enjoy your ride.

Follow @ucdavis.life on Instagram for more student-centered content like this, as well as fun events and important announcements!