thomas said:
Yep, they seem to have heavy MTBs....probably more suited with their equipment though.
Most Police just get ssued whatever they are given, unfortunately there is still very little understanding from the brass about the benefits and therefore the requirements needed for an officers or PCSO's bike.
W can't have lightweight, race bikes due to the amount of kit we carry. The Police will not spend a grand on each bike (which they should IMHO) due to finacial constraints and public opinion. They also have a lack of understanding about the uniform cyclists need issuing and the training required. Although that is changing slowly.
In The US, Police Bikes are big Buisness, with speacials available form Cannondale, Trek, Volcanic, Speacialised and Gun Makers Smith & Wesson. Here in the UK the only company getting involved is WHYTE.
MOntague/Swiss Bike do thier Folding Paratrooper in EMS livery (a very good bike for our needs for many reasons). There is a partnership between
Halfords and a company called Creative Innovative Technology making Carrera bikes availble in Police livery. USE, the light people, also do Flashing Blue versions of thier Jostixx and MAXX lights for EMS use. Endura are also making speacialist Police Uniform based on thier range of clothing.
Tynan said:
it's not for cahing cars ffs
it's for getting to places quicker than a car in taffic or off road
and it gives a more local presence than coppers crusing around in cars
have to say though that I've never seen them ever do anything
Good point Tynan. Open your eyes and yo may see them doing more than you think!
Tynan said:
if you say so
I saw them catch someone on their phone once, and have to shout to make them cut their call to be told off, and that was it
that rather removed any sense of humour I might have had about them
Had to do this on several occaisons, usually on my may to somethng more important where I don't (as much as I would like too) have time to stop and spend 10 minutes issuing a ticket and doeing all the required checks need to issue said ticket
shunter said:
I think more police on the road on two wheels - bike and motorcycle - would do a lot to make car drivers more aware of the fact that they do not own the road.
Please, Please write to your local Constabulary and let them know you want to see more officers, properly trained and equipped riding bikes around your town!
(PS If anyone wants to sposor me to the effect of a new bike uniform and some Blues and Twos it would be very much appreciated!
