Behind the Handle Bars: While Bicycle Patrol Presents a Unique Image, It's the Same Shift at the End of the Day - Save the Engine Fumes

• NCJ Number: 229879
• Journal: Law Enforcement Technology Volume: 37 Issue: 1 Dated: January 2010 Pages: 16-20
• Author(s): Jonathan Kozlowski
• Date Published: January 2010
• Length: 5 pages
• Publication Format: Article
• Publication Type: Issue Overview
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

This article discusses the benefits to police agencies in the use of bicycle patrols.

Abstract

Using Florida as an example, this article examines what is needed for an effective bicycle patrol unit in a police agency. The article gives the differences between being in a patrol car and being on a bicycle, such as the different training required to handle the various vehicles, the increased amount of exposure that the officer has when using a bicycle and how to reduce the exposure, and the increased interaction that the officer has with the public. It is noted that bicycles are more maneuverable at lower speeds and can fit into tighter spaces. They can also be very effective when chasing a suspect who is running away because the officer expends less energy while riding thus allowing more energy once the suspect is captured. The article provides information and a list of courses available from the two major bicycle training associations for law enforcement: the International Police Mountain Bike Association (IPMBA) and the Law Enforcement Bicycle Association (LEBA).