Commonly Asked Questions
What is Flashfleet?
Flashfleet is a free short-term bike sharing program for students, faculty and staff. Development of the Flashfleet program is due to continued concerns of rising fuel costs, traffic congestion, population increases, physical fitness and greater consciousness about climate change.
Why should I use the program?
There are a number of reasons to take advantage of the Flashfleet program:
- Provides convenient transportation around campus and city of Kent without relying on a car or bus
- Riding a bike helps to lower your carbon footprint and decreases GHG emissions
- Creates an excellent source of exercise
- Receive 500 FLASHperks points for program participation
What bikes are available?
The fleet of bikes consists of Trek 7000 hybrid bikes with frame sizes of 15, 17.5 and 20 inches. Bikes come equipped with a water bottle holder and half the bikes have a front mounted basket.
Bike specifications can be found at: http://www.trekbikes.com/us/en/bikes/bike_path/hybrid/7000/
Do I have to wear a helmet?
Helmets are available for checkout and are strongly encouraged, though not required.
What size bike should I ride?
Bike sizing is not an exact science, but a general rule of thumb is as follows:
| Your Height | Your Inseam Length | Bike Frame Size |
| 5'3" and shorter | 27" and shorter | 15 inch |
| 5’3" - 5'7" | 27" - 30" | 17.5 inch |
| 5’8†and taller | 30†and taller | 20 inch |
Remember that the bike seat is adjustable. Seat height should allow your knee to have a slight bend when extended. If your knee is fully extended, the seat should be lowered.
Who may check out a bike?
All KSU students, faculty and staff are eligible to check out a bike by presenting their FLASHcard at any checkout location. These individuals are also allowed to check out one additional set of equipment for a guest with valid photo identification.
How do I check out a bike?
The Flashfleet bike program works like checking out a library book. All you need is your FLASHcard. You will need to sign the checkout log/contract and staff will hand you the key to your bike lock. Helmets are available and strongly encouraged, though not required under Ohio law.
What does a guest need to do to check out a bike?
Guest needs to be 18 years of age and be present with a current student, faculty or staff member. Guest must present a valid photo ID at the checkout location and sign a guest contract.
How much does it cost?
The program is free of charge!
Where can I checkout and return my bike?
Flashfleet bikes are currently available at seven locations on campus:
- Student Recreation and Wellness Center
- Student Center Information Desk
- Ice Arena
- Dunbar Hall Area Desk
- Twin Towers Residence Hall Area Desk
- Stopher Residence Hall Area Desk
- Tri Towers Residence Hall Area Desk
Do I have to return my bike to the same location I checked it out from?
Yes, all checkouts and returns must commence at the same location.
How long can I keep the bike?
You can check out a bike for single day use. All bikes must be returned by closing or late fees may apply.
What if I want a bike for longer than a day?
Long term bike rentals are available at the Student Recreation and Wellness Center for long term usage. Prices are as follows (Member/Non-member):
| 1 Day | Weekend | Week |
| $15/$17 | $30/$32 | $45/$47 |
What is the bike return policy?
Your bike, lock, key and helmet are all due back to the checkout location by closing on the same day it was checked out. If the bike is not returned, your Bursar account will be charged $20 a day for each additional day. If the bike is lost, destroyed or not returned after 10 days, you will be charged the cost of the bike and accessories. If the bike is returned dirty and requires additional cleaning, a $10 cleaning fee will be charged to your Bursar account.
How can I avoid bike theft?
Lock your bike! Remember - don't leave your bike unattended, even for just a minute.
What if my bike is stolen?
Contact the Kent State University Police Department immediately at 330-672-3070 to report a bike theft. Also, inform your checkout location that you filed a police report.
The tire on my Flashfleet bike is flat. How can I get air?
All checkout locations have a bike pump available for program use.
How do I report a problem with the bike I checked out?
Please return equipment to the checkout location and notify the staff of the problem.
Where can I find more information about the Flashfleet program?
Email: flash_fleet@kent.edu
Call: 330-672-4REC