The University of North Carolina at Greensboro Police Department
	General Order 2-8.3	Bicycle Patrol

The purpose of this chapter is to establish guidelines and procedures for the bicycle patrol function of the UNCG Police Department. It is the policy of the department to maintain a police bicycle patrol officer for each squad and/or maintain a bike officer in a reserve capacity. The objective of bicycle patrol is to supplement the traditional motor vehicle and foot patrol. The Bicycle Patrol Officer (bike officer) will be committed to enhancing the police/community contacts in accordance to the patrol and field operations strategies. In all patrol activities, the policy of the department is meant to promote the safety of the public and the officers who serve in the bicycle patrol function. Also, the quiet approach of a properly trained bike officer presents tactical advantages in certain situations.

The G.S. §20-4.01(49) defines a bicycle as a vehicle. Bicycles are subject to the applicable provisions of the motor vehicle laws and will obey all traffic laws relative to vehicles while on patrol. The public will look to the bike officers to set the example in responsible bicycle operations.

The bike officers' primary responsibility is to provide police services to the community by using the advantages of the bicycle and close community contact it affords.

1. Objectives
   
   The bike officers will adhere to the following objectives.
   1. To respond to priority calls for service.
   2. Promote community relations by developing innovative programs and producing open communications between the department and all citizens within the patrol area.
   3. Extend patrol services to include greenways, parks, and like areas previously inaccessible to vehicular patrol officers.
   4. Provide police services to special events such as move-ins, festivals and other such events where the road is closed to vehicles.
2. Supervision of Bicycle Patrol Officers
   
   The bike officers will be used as directed by the shift supervisor and/or the field operations commander or designee. Criminal activities and trends will help in determining patrol locations and type of patrol to be used. Bike officers will be available for patrol duties in all but the most extreme weather conditions.
3. Selection of Bicycle Patrol Officers
   
   The bike officers may be hired as a new officer or an existing full time officer may submit an official request to become a bike officer. Before an officer may assume the duties of a bike position they must meet the following prerequisites:
   1. Must be employed with the department on a full time basis.
   2. Must have completed the department's field training program.
   3. Must be in appropriate physical condition to perform the duties and responsibilities of a bike officer as determined by the department.
   4. Upon selection must complete a departmentally approved police bike patrol training course.
   5. Reserve officers may participate in the program on a limited basis as their training and time constraints allow.
4. Uniforms and Equipment
   
   The bike officers will be issued the following special uniforms and accessories to be worn and used while on bicycle patrol.
   1. Helmet with "Police" clearly visible on both sides
   2. Departmental approved uniform shirt
   3. Uniform jacket (As available)
   4. Cycling specific uniform shorts
   5. Cycling gloves
   6. Nylon duty belt with appropriate accessories
   7. Police mountain bike with rear equipment rack
   8. Headlight system
   9. Rear flashing light or reflective lens for bike
5. Maintenance
   
   Each bike officer is responsible for the upkeep and maintenance of their assigned equipment in accordance with the guidelines outlined below. Special attention should be given to proper adjustment, worn parts, defects and conditions that may affect the safe operation of the bicycle. At the beginning of each shift, the officer will conduct an inspection of the bicycle to ensure proper operation and condition.
   
   Each officer will receive general maintenance training in the proper care and daily inspection of the bicycle which include:
   • Repair of a flat tire,
   • Cleaning and oiling the bicycle drive train and emergency repair of same, and
   • Minor brake adjustments.
   A designated repair/storage area will be maintained and equipped with the necessary tools and equipment to perform regular maintenance. The bike officers will be responsible for the regular cleaning and upkeep of this area. All bicycles and equipment will be stored in this area until needed.