Biking on and around campus

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Riding around campus

Biking is an affordable and active way to commute to and around campus. The University supports biking through designated paths, bike racks, repair stations, and secure bike parking.

Bikes are permitted on most campus roads and designated shared-use paths. Cyclists are expected to follow traffic laws and ride responsibly around pedestrians, vehicles, and buildings.
For guidance on safe riding, see Tips on Riding Safely from the League of American Bicyclists.

Bike parking options

Bike racks

With an estimated 500+ bike rack spaces, there is plenty of free bicycle parking on our campuses.

Bicycles may not be parked next to signposts, trees, light poles, or handrails. Riders who would like to take their bicycles into a building are welcome to do so, provided the bicycle is not ridden in the hallways and is stored in a dorm room or private office. Bicycles may not be stored in hallways, break rooms, and/or public places.

Secure bike stations

Secure bike stations provide covered, enclosed bike parking and are located at ground level in Strong Memorial Hospital’s ramp garage, with one station at Jackson Drive and one at East Drive.

Bike commuters can park their bikes in either bike station at no charge, although a permit is required. Permits can be obtained through the Parking office at 70 Goler House during regular business hours or at the Parking office inside the main Hospital Garage after business hours.

East Drive bike cage.

Bike stations offer:

24/7 access
Space-saver bike racks
Security cameras
Weather protection
Self-service bike repair stations

Indoor bike parking at O’Brien Hall

O’Brien Hall offers an indoor bike parking room on the first floor, available to resident students during the academic year. To reserve a spot, visit the O’Brien Hall Area Office to receive a space number and card access.

Bike share

Electric scooters and electric bikes are available through the City of Rochester. Explore the City’s bike share program.

The University of Rochester is a bicycle-friendly campus, earning a Silver Bicycle Friendly University award from the League of American Bicyclists in 2018 and 2022.

This recognition reflects the University’s commitment to supporting biking as a sustainable transportation option.

Learn about the Bicycle Friendly University award

Bike security and responsibility

While we take steps to help protect property on campus, the University is not responsible for the loss or damage to vehicles, bikes, motorcycles, or their contents. Please report any loss or damage to Public Safety at (585) 275-3333.