How Does it Work?

It’s simple: Grab a bike outside a residence hall, library or in the parking lot, pedal away and then park it at your destination for the next person. Additional recommendation: enjoy a leisurely ride around campus whenever you have a chance.

Where do they go? 

One of the most common questions from current students is “Where have the Pirate Bikes gone?” During certain times of the year (like Homecoming & Reunion Weekend and Winter Break), Campus Police round up the bikes for maintenance and storage. This allows the fleet to stay in top notch shape and rest up for the next rider.

Where did they come from?

The bikes were donated in memory of Walter P. “Wally” Meyer ’86, who died in 2004 following a bicycling accident. His sister, Heidi Meyer Curry, provided funds for the bikes “to keep his memory and spirit alive.” For more, watch the Pirate Bike Kick-off Video.

Maintenance, Care and Safety

Campus Police play an instrumental role in the Pirate Bike Program. They handle all administrative matters, including coordinating student workers to conduct daily maintenance of the bikes. Students may check out a helmet at the campus police station for their daily use.

The campus community is expected to treat the bikes with care and respect (just like we do each other). The following guidelines ensure that the Pirate Bikes will live a long and prosperous life at SU. Please do your part to keep this program safe on campus!

• No Pirate Bikes may be taken off campus.
• If caught with a Pirate Bike off-campus, disciplinary action, including a $50 fine, may be taken.
• Pirate Bikes may not be locked with a personal lock nor stored in a personal space.
• Always maintain a safe speed.
• Always yield to pedestrians.
• Do not block entrances, exits, ramps, steps or automated door opening devices.
• Bikes are not allowed on the track nor are they allowed on any playing fields.
• Do not park bicycles so as to block a sidewalk, walkway or building entrance.
• When on SU roadways, obey all traffic signs.
• Only one rider per bicycle.
• Do not jump curbs, etc.
• When on SU roadways, ride with the flow of traffic.
• Use of bike helmets is strongly encouraged.
• Helmets are available at SUPD for check-out.
• Do not ride Pirate Bikes at night or during inclement weather.
• Do not ride Pirate Bikes if you have been drinking alcohol.
  Please E-mail supd@southwestern.edu, or turn it upside down, if you see a bike that needs repairs or maintenance. You may also drop off bikes at SUPD if they need repairs. Please help keep our Pirate Bike program safe and fun for everyone.