<p>There should be a DPS auction for used bikes that were impounded, unless it already passed.</p>
<p>Buying the cheapest bike you can is the best. The whole area around USC is totally flat and you can ride anything quite easily, do not need something fancy. You can ride quickly up to Ralphs on Adams on a bike. A basket added can hold groceries. My cousin who lives nearby gave me an old school beach cruiser (one speed, large tires) for my son. His roomate bought a new one for $40 at Walmart. Both bikes work great. I saw $40 bikes used at that UV bike shop last week. Also check mycollegepost.com and google forsaleusc.com for students selling bikes. But the best time to buy used is at the end of the semester when students are leaving.</p>
<p>Another suggestion to consider is using a skateboard or Razor to propel around campus. The advantage there being you can bring it into class/living area WITH you & not leave it out for thieves.
I have also read about the police/DPS auctions at the beginning of the year. If my son were interested, I'd encouarge him to buy the cheapest good quality skateboard he could. I've read good things about inexpensive bikes bought at KMart, WalMart, Target, etc. So far, he's fine with just walking around, since his dorm (Pardee) is in the middle of campus anyway. If he moves further out, he may consider buying something to help get around.</p>
<p>you'll fall and embarrass yourself on a skateboard</p>
<p>I already did that a few times. luckily, it was near the parking center so not that many people saw it</p>
<p>I haven't seen any of the students using a Razor when I was there last week. I wonder why, maybe they are not in fashion now. My son refused to take a practically brand new Razor we have at home here. They are easy to use and non theft-able and easier to use than a skateboard - plus you can get them cheap at yardsales - like $10 . Maybe some of you will make them fashionable again.</p>
<p>Is the area between Adams & Jefferson (North/South), and between Vermont & Hoover (West/East) safe enough for two or three students to venture into? Specifically, I found two Bike stores (Lion's Bikes: 1387 w. 29th street, Bike Spot: 535 w. 27th street). I realize that there is LA Bikes directly across from the campus in University Village. Sometimes, it is good to price compare. However, if those two stores are beyond the safe zone, i would prefer to know that ahead of time. Thanks</p>
<p>Yes, those areas are more than safe if you visit during the daytime with a group of friends. Infact, the area you described is very dense with off-campus student housing, so don't be suprised if you see a bunch of other people around!</p>
<p>Thanks, your info is greatly appreciated.</p>
<p>My D did see at least one person riding a Razor at USC & another on a motorized scooter, plus some kids on skateboards. I think as kids figure out what they want & need, more "wheels" in various forms will appear on campus. Even if your child buys a Razor, they're pretty inexpensive at many stores--even Sharper Image! I figure my S may decide to bring his Razor from home when he is down for Winter Break. (I admit, he hates to spend money.)</p>
<p>Does anyway know, if the bikes need to be registered or licensed? What department do we contact?</p>
<p>Yes, bicycles must be registered through the Department of Public of Safety on campus. There is a $3 fee, and they give you stickers to mark your bike.</p>
<p>I skate...but I definitely wouldn't use it for transportation. Such a hassle with a backpack, in crowds, and when you need to get anywhere fast. I'm still getting a bike, and I love my skateboard like a child, so that's coming with me, too.</p>
<p>DO NOT BUY AN EXPENSIVE BIKE....</p>
<p>Look for one at a garage sale for like 20 bucks</p>
<p>I had two bikes stolen last year within 3 weeks of each other. I said forget and will try again this year.</p>
<p>i keep my bike inside everynight. I haven't had a problem with it and I know other people who do the same.</p>
<p>Not all dorms allow you to keep them inside...what dorm do you live in?</p>
<p>I was recently reading an interesting article on Kryptonite Ulocks that all might want to read before those who steal bicycles read it (or before you buy a U-lock). <a href="http://www.wired.com/news/culture/0,1284,64987,00.html%5B/url%5D">http://www.wired.com/news/culture/0,1284,64987,00.html</a></p>
<p>I like in Cardinal Gardens but i know someone in Marks tower who does the same thing.</p>
<p>That article's dated. Kryptonite U-locks are not operated with barrel-style keys anymore.</p>