Then: In August, Blacksburg Town Council passed an ordinance requiring moped riders to wear helmets and eye protection when riding in the town limits. The new ordinance coincided with the opening of the town's first moped dealership, Campus Cruizers, on College Avenue.

As defined by state law, mopeds have a 49 cubic centimeter or smaller engine and no more than three wheels. Under state law, moped riders must be at least 16 years old, carry identification and travel no faster than 35 mph. The state allows localities to enact further restrictions on mopeds, including some noise and safety rules.

Blacksburg's ordinance applies to mopeds with 50 cc or smaller engines and was proposed by Town Attorney Larry Spencer, who broke his leg in a motorcycle wreck in 2007. Judging by the damage to his full-face helmet, Spencer said that without it, his injuries would probably have been more severe.

During his recovery, Spencer noticed more and more mopeds around town and decided to propose the new safety rules, he said.

Now: Blacksburg police have given out eight tickets and numerous warnings to helmetless riders since August, said Lt. Joe Davis of the Blacksburg Police Department.

As for Campus Cruizers, co-owner Damon Strickland said although business has slowed down slightly with the cooler weather, "we've met all of our goals and all of our projections."

Strickland said the company has sold 32 mopeds since opening and there are plans in the spring to expand retail offerings, including new clothing items.