Syverson Says

Loud Pipes – Mixed Emotions

The Environmental Protection Agency, under auspices of the Noise Control Act, has acted to address motorcycle noise, though they haven’t exactly met with roaring success. Sorry about the bad pun.

As background, all motorcycle manufacturers have been building, testing, and labeling their motorcycles and their quiet, original equipment exhaust systems (as required by the federal laws and regulations), going all the way back to 1983. Let’s be clear, this is not an issue involving OE (original equipment) exhaust, or mufflers installed on a production line somewhere. All manufacturers must be in full compliance with noise standards, period. Clearly, the noise issue stems from the design, production and sale of straight-pipes by any number of aftermarket manufacturers, foreign and domestic.

Come on, I’d just like one night of sleep. I distinctly remember one night in Daytona during Bike Week, when I stayed in a room in an unnamed prestigious hotel, which immediately faces Florida Highway A1A. Suffice to say, that was one tough night. The noise level was simply overwhelming. I believe I finally fell asleep about 4:00 A.M., the next morning. Gosh, I thought those pillows were meant to be under one’s head.

So, what’s a straight-pipe design? They’re mufflers without any sort of baffles; similar in design to the barrel of a shot gun.

Okay, so these exhaust systems are in need of some oversight. Is that the responsibility of local, state, or the Federal Government? I’ve learned that there may now be a New York statute, which will fine riders a minimum of $440 if their mufflers, or exhaust systems, can be heard outside of 200 feet. As yet another example, it’s reported that the City of Denver, Colorado has acted to effectively ban any type of aftermarket exhaust system on motorcycles less than 25 years old, which is now an offense punishable with a $500 fine. In short, there’s a growing effort on the state and local level to take action against motorcycle noise.

The San Francisco Chronicle recently reported that the Oakland Police Department has acted to install somewhat louder, aftermarket pipes onto their fleet of Harley-Davidson FLHP Road Kings. According to the article, safety concerns spread within the department some three months ago when a motor officer riding with stock OE pipes was struck by a motorist - who then claimed that he didn’t hear the motor officer approaching. In my mind, officer safety is of paramount importance, period.

Motorcycle Industry Council Spokesman Mike Mount has been quoted as saying, “We encourage all motorcycle riders to keep the original low sound levels that meet the federal sound limit of 80 decibels.” He added, “It would seem counterintuitive that a law enforcement agency would go against federal standards.” Especially considering that recent laws have been clamping down on loud bike exhausts.

Let’s be mindful that the Oakland Police Department did not purchase and install classic straight-pipes. Rather, the OPD made an informed decision designed in such a manner as to improve motor officer visibility and personal safety. Moreover, their efforts should be applauded.

Solution: Let’s enforce the existing laws and act to rid the streets of straight-pipes, those running without baffles. After all, they’re easy enough for us to spot. We certainly don’t need a new array of state and local laws, which conflict with federal standards. In short, it’s time for us all to get some sleep.

The New Buell Ulysses XB12XP – Police Motorcycle on Steroids

Dateline: East Troy, WI. USA

One look at this bad boy tells you it means business. The new Buell XB12XP Ulysses Police Motorcycle is one tough hombre. In short, it has an “arresting appearance.” It reminds me of the new Dodge Charger, with that aggressive, take no prisoner’s attitude. There’s a lot to this package and yet a few features MIA, but more on that later. Otherwise, check out the formal press release (Word doc) and stated specifications for additional insight, or visit buell.com for more info.

Buell has properly positioned the Ulysses as a go-anywhere, does-anything police model motorcycle. They don’t state climbing ability in the product highlights, but I bet it could do just about anything you might have in mind. Climb the Rockies, maybe.

Ground clearance is a healthy 6.75”; any more and you’d need an optional accessory ladder just to mount this mighty steed.

The standard OE Pirelli Scorpion Sync tires look trick; however, there’s no mention of bead-retention design (so that the tire remains on the wheel during sudden loss of air pressure). This may be just an oversight in the specifications. Nevertheless, given the advanced nature of this new motorcycle perhaps consideration should have been given to adding special run-flat tires. Oh, then there’s also the ABS issue.

All of the police motorcycle manufacturers I know of offer police-type solo seats (we also call them “saddles” – from days gone by) but Buell is taking a different approach, offering a seat which will also accommodate a passenger.

This trick Buell has great gas mileage, 51 MPG/urban and 64 MPG/highway…but if command makes us start riding two-up that’s another thing all together. I know, gas is now around $4 gallon. Mind you, I’ve been to some places in the world where officers riding two-up is SOP, but let’s hope that it never comes to that here.

Some of the other features offered result in great benefits for the officer/rider. As example, standard heated grips; alright, it’s about time. The standard oil cooler and quick-release tall windscreen (windshield) are both great features, which will pay lasting dividends for the motor officer. A Siren and LED pursuit light package is also offered (colors your choice).

This motorcycle makes some real power, outfitted with the latest Thunderstorm 1203cc V-Twin, 103 peak hp. After all, it’s really about stopping the offender as quickly and safely as possible.

Harley-Davidson Police Model FL’s just went to a larger gas tank (6 gallons), but the Ulysses is outfitted with an advanced fuel reservoir, built into the frame, which features a capacity of 4.4 gallons.

As I recall, the Kawasaki KZ1000P Police Motorcycle (1975 to RIP 2005) weighed in dry at 595 lbs. The Ulysses is just 480 lbs. (dry, but fully up-fitted for service). Now, that’s impressive.

Low center of gravity and mass centralization remain the hallmark of Buell products, which is layman’s terms means better handling, cornering, and all-around riding performance. I owned a Buell X1 Lightning for several years and I can attest to the fact that these motorcycles handle, perform and then some!

Henry Ford would be proud – the Ulysses is offered in either Midnight Black or Birch White.

Authorized Buell dealers are already able to order this new motorcycle, for production and delivery August, 2008 (and thereafter) as a 2009 MY product. Given my experience there may be a waiting list – and soon.

When I served with the Village of East Troy Police Department we had an older Buell (an S3 Thunderbolt, as I recall) that Buell had provided to us gratis. They’re good corporate citizens. I rode it but preferred the Harley-Davidson; it’s all about image. However, I think that if I could turn back the hands-of-time and the Ulysses was offered I’d be the first officer in line.

2008 North American Motor Officers’ Association Symposium

Chilliwack, BC Canada

Latitude: 49.09.10N
Longitude: 121.56.20W
May 1-3, 2008
Temperature High: 60F, or 15.5C
Temperature Low: 40F, or 4.4C
Elevation: 20’, or 6m
Visibility: Three cool to cold days spring days. Practice days offered broken clouds, some light rain; intermittent light rain on the day of the event.

The annual NAMOA Training Conference conducted in Chilliwack, BC lived up to the name of the city, as it was “chilly” throughout the event. Each morning brought cold temperatures and any warm up attempt was as a result of our shivering through the cold. Naturally, there were those officers wearing only short-sleeve shirts but those would be individuals tougher than yours truly.

Say, I just noticed this is a long way from Miami. In one week I’ve been from sea to shining sea.

Once a riverboat landing on the Fraser River, Chilliwack is a popular destination; a beguiling summer destination but offers activities for all four-seasons. The Fraser Valley and Chilliwack’s roots are firmly planted in farming but offer a wide range of experiences for any outdoor enthusiast. The city is nestled in the river valley protected by the surrounding mountains.

NAMOA brings together motor officers from all over the Northwest. That is, primarily from British Columbia, Washington, and Oregon. Naturally, we also had offers from other states and provinces. I’d have to say that it’s a pleasure to see such cooperation amongst allied law enforcement agencies. It reminded me of our many successful combined military actions over the years, which continue to this day.

Expert riders knew how to set up these courses; however, the courses were tight and represented a real challenge if you were a novice rider. These courses were not for the uninitiated.

Canadian hospitality is something you must experience to believe. What a great and friendly bunch. The citizens of Chilliwack were much the same – warming and welcoming of our bunch.

Of special note, Constable Corey Porret of the Vancouver PD assisted in a liaison role and due in large measure to his personal actions the event went off without a hitch. As you might imagine, Constable Porret responded to any question or concern promptly and exceeded the expectations of all in attendance.

Motor Officers of the legendary Royal Canadian Mounted Police/Gendarmerie royale du Canada commanded a real presence. In fact, Corporal Bryan Fedirchuk, RCMP/GRC Deas Island Detachment, was among the many talented participating motor officers. Corporal Fedirchuk was symbolic of the strong and stoic Mounty and reminded me of one of the reasons I became involved in law enforcement to begin with; the fabled story of Sergeant Preston of the Yukon, Northwest Mounted Police, which was the forerunner of the RCMP.

There was plenty of good food and fine Canadian beer to go around. If you’re ever in the area stop by Mr. Mikes Steakhouse, which offers the best steaks in the valley. As for Italian cuisine, Bozzini’s (phone number 604-792-0744) is a great choice.

It rained on Saturday and it was a pretty miserable day. However, the highlight of the event was participation in a local parade through the downtown area; masses of police motorcycles on the streets of Chilliwack. After all, image is everything.

2008 Police Traffic Services’ Seminar Networks Information amongst Officers and Allied Agencies

April 27-30, 2008
Anaheim, CA

This week I attended a great traffic safety conference. Fortunately it’s here in beautiful California, which is in the midst of its first summer heat wave this week. Hey, what’s with 102 degrees in April? It’s not even summer yet. I flew into John Wayne Airport in Orange County, CA, but more on John Wayne later.

It’s evident that the California Office of Traffic Safety Team worked long hours to bring together interesting, relevant topics and informed presenters. Traffic Safety is viewed as an important topic in a state with 10% of the nation’s population! It’s important to share, network and learn of new programs on a routine basis. Here’s just a sampling of the various presentations this week:

• Motorcycle Safety (there’s so much information here I’ll need to cover under a separate posting)
• Legislative Update
• Traffic Safety Resource Prosecutor Program
• Legality of Sobriety Checkpoints
• Nighttime Seatbelt Enforcement
• Coping with Change and Adversity
• Officer Survival – “The Will to Survive”
• POST Certified Illegal Street Racing Training
• Building Communities Through Education and Enforcement

Make no mistake, I attended as a vendor so my perspective with regard to the various training topics is largely subjective and second hand; however, you’ll have to agree that these topics are important to the “Average Joe Motor Officer” as well as command level officers.

Another of my other favorite topics this week was Officer Survival. I absolutely agree that such training is necessary for all law enforcement officers.

Back in the day, one of my firearm’s instructors, J.W. Johnson, taught us that if you were in a fight for your life you had to realize such a struggle for what it was early on and then fight to survive; employ every tactic possible to win. In short, you must have a “winning mindset” with the constant thought that, in the end, you were going home to family. Sometimes we tend to forget that these things happen and that it’s imperative that we must win such battles. J.W. knew his business. After all, he had to live up to his namesake John Wayne.

As an aside, if you’re a motor officer it’s important to train with the gear you use in the field, in your normal uniform, and not in a t-shirt and jeans. What about night fire training and how about using your motors?

In my humble opinion, the most valuable presentation of the seminar was a lunch time speech by Sheriff Charlie Hanger; Sheriff Hanger was the Oklahoma State Trooper who arrested Timothy McVeigh. Sheriff Hanger made a point that there was no such thing as a “routine traffic stop;” moreover, that you must treat each stop in an effective, professional manner. As you may know, it was simple, basic traffic stop that lead to McVeigh’s arrest. At 10:20 AM, 04/19/1995, while driving north on I-35, McVeigh was stopped by Trooper Hanger for having no license plates on his vehicle. McVeigh was arrested for having no vehicle registration, no license plates, and carrying a concealed weapon without a permit. McVeigh was booked and lodged in the county jail in Perry, Oklahoma. Important point – McVeigh’s story didn’t check out and he was armed (Glock 45 and knife). In short, the stop was far from the routine; no traffic stop is routine. Through the years I have known several Oklahoma State Troopers; however, none more heroic that Charlie Hanger. Two years after Waco, the bombing of the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building resulted in the deaths of 168 victims. The bottom line, traffic officers may be our first line of defense against terrorists, foreign or domestic.

Toyota was the major sponsor of the PTS Seminar, along with Allstate Insurance, AAA of Southern California and the California Beer & Beverage Distributors. It says a lot about the care and involvement of these businesses to be involved in such a laudable training endeavor, every one representing “Good Corporate Citizens.” The time may not yet be right for Toyota squad cars on California roads, but with this type of involvement it can’t be far away.

The PTS Seminar was limited to 350 attendees this year. Everyone here submitted their registration early, so if you hope to attend next year please keep that fact in mind. The Disneyland Resort was right down the road and a real plus for some of the officer’s family members.

Your own state has its version of the California OTS; find out more about yours.

The real bottom line, the efforts of the PTS focuses on “Saving lives and futures everyday on California’s roadways.”

Harley-Davidson Plans Motor Officer Training Events to Honor 100 Years of Service to Law Enforcement

In my “former life” serving as Manager of Harley-Davidson’s Worldwide Police and Fleet Sales, I’ve been involved in many events focused on celebrating the success of Harley-Davidson’s dedicated service to law enforcement over the course of decades. Looking back, I’ve been involved in every Harley-Davidson Anniversary Celebration since the 75th. We’re now approaching the celebration of the century, certainly a laudable milestone event. Harley-Davidson’s plans for the Labor Day period involve a number of exciting law enforcement (motor officer) training-focused activities, which are to take shape during the Harley-Davidson 105th, August 27-30 in Milwaukee, WI. Based on my past experience these events should prove not only informative but also rewarding and a great deal of fun. In order to review complete details please check out b-there.com or you can also go to the Harley-Davidson Police & Fire/Rescue Events page and click on the Register Now! link. Plan ahead; the registration deadline is Friday, July 11.

Okay, I know, it’s Milwaukee. Milwaukee is a great city, an industrial giant; remember LaVerne and Shirley? Many may consider Milwaukee to be part of the “Rust Belt” but you’ll find it to be an interesting, vibrant, and exciting city. Milwaukee used to be called “The Beer City” as just about every brewery you may recall had a presence in this great city at one time or another. Take a minute to check out one of the city’s several websites, OnMilwaukee.com.

Although I have always preferred California and Florida, I spent most of my adult life in Wisconsin. Trust me, it’s cold. This year they enjoyed about 100 inches of snow – some kind of record and not a good one at that. Naturally, summertime is great in Wisconsin – warm, beautiful days and cool nights. There’s also little traffic compared to most major U.S. cities.

The citizens of Milwaukee are a friendly bunch. You’ll find them to be outgoing, hospitable and ready to roll out the “red carpet” for everyone. If you don’t have reservations check out my favorite small hotel, the County Clare, which is an authentic Irish guest house. This is such a great small inn that I’ve actually stayed there many times myself and I lived in the immediate area.

Enjoy Milwaukee’s German-style “gemutlikeit.” What’s that…sounds like a European term? You’d be right – gemutlikeit means a cozy conviviality. Here are some bars and restaurants where you’d find the best of Milwaukee foods and the friendliest Americans:

Check out the Blu Bar Lounge at the very top of the Pfister Hotel. The view of the city and Lake Michigan is beyond compare; from Blu you can practically see Michigan!

If you enjoy beer steins and hummels, Mader’s German restaurant is your kind of place. To enjoy Milwaukee to its fullest you must experience the best German food in the USA. If you go try a draft German beer, but ask for a Pilsner. Did I mention the Sauerbraten?

Balistreri’s Italian Ristorante has the best Italian food in the Milwaukee area. They also have crispy crust pizza that’s made in a huge rectangular pan. Pizzas may also be ordered by calling ahead, which is always the best plan.

Saz’s BBQ has the very best barbeque going, cold beer and typical Milwaukee friendliness, err…GEMUTLIKEIT.

If you’re looking for the best steaks in the area, my favorite restaurants are The Steakout, which is located in Greendale, and The Packing House, which is located close to the airport. Both of these restaurants are simply great! Otherwise, you can check out information for these and many other fine restaurants at www.foodspot.com.

One of the best small town bars in the area is Hanley’s Grille & Bar, which is located at the intersection of 76th Street and Rawson Avenue in Franklin. It’s a down home local pub, offering great food and atmosphere.

Hanley’s Grille & Bar
7101 S 76th St.
Franklin, WI
Phone (414) 425-0822

‎If you should plan to attend, get ready for a great time. The riding is tremendous. Please take a few hours to ride through the “Kettle Moraine,” which is a picturesque area just west of Milwaukee. You must also take the time to visit the Miller Brewery Tour.

In summary, the people are friendly and the beer cold. Welcome home.

19th Annual South East Police Motorcycle Training Seminar & Safety Trials

Location: Pompano Beach, Florida
Latitude: 26.237N
Longitude: -80.125W
Dates: April 9-12, 2008
High Temp: 85º F
Low Temp: 63º F
Elevation: 21 ft (almost sea level)
Visibility: Generally unlimited, with broken clouds and occasional light showers (it’s the sub-tropics!)

I’ve been attending the South East Police Motorcycle Rodeo since the very first event. Yes, that would mean I’ve made eighteen events. Okay, I missed one year as I didn’t see it prudent to spread whatever illness I had encountered amongst the troops. There are several officers who’ve attended every year. I would term that cadre as “The Old Guard,” a great bunch who represent the heart-and-soul of the training seminar and safety trials team. The “Old Guard” is now much more intimately involved; the torch has been passed. I too am active in management of the event, serving on the Rodeo Committee (at large), acting in a role as the de facto “Public Information Officer.”

Motors Officers from far and wide joined us for the 19th Anniversary Rodeo. Twenty law enforcement agencies participated this year. The top overall team was the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office JSO Team One - Officers D. Harris, T. Oman, D. Sciandra, and G. Morningstar. What a great name, Morningstar! These guys can ride. The second place team was the Fort Lauderdale Police Department, Officers D. Solinger, D. Dodd (showman), S. House and Sgt. G. Gavic. Reportedly, these guys don’t have a lot of time to practice; however, you’d never know it, as they are superb riders. Complete results can be found here.

Several of my long time friends came all the way from New Jersey, representing the City of Paterson PD and the Borough of Totowa. I have a great photo of PPD Officer Tom Johnson and his team. Totowa PD Officer Bob Abrunzo is about sixteen months from retirement. He has a great sense of humor and a kind word for everyone he encounters. I would also add that he needs a new siren amplifier, so if anyone out there has a spare one (black box only) please consider donating it to Bob. The Borough of Totowa PD address is:

Borough of Totowa Police Department
537 Totowa Road
Totowa, NJ 07512

Lt. Doug Murray and his team came down from Prince George’s County, MD. Every time I encountered Doug he was working hard to perfect his riding skills. These guys travel in style, with a wonderful custom tractor-trailer rig.

There are new rules at the SE this year. Specifically, stock fork stops are now mandatory, with no modifications. This is a trend I see taking shape amongst rodeo events this year.

Trust me when I say that these rodeo events are costly and time consuming for the management team. Like you’re experiencing at the department, or in your daily life, our costs are escalating. We need to bring in more sponsors. Special thanks to Harley-Davidson Motor Company, Inc., Eddie Accardi (local auto dealer), Mr. Mitchell Bronfman, and several other financial supporters who made this rodeo possible. Our goal is to raise funds for Concerns of Police Survivors and the MDA. In fact, over the years, this rodeo event has donated more to the C.O.P.S. organization than any other similar rodeo.

Whether you’re a motor officer or civilian, you’re cordially invited to attend our 20th Anniversary Rodeo. Additional information will be provided on our website, southeastpolice.com

In a few weeks I’ll travel to the North American Motor Officer’s Association Conference up in Canada. It’s reported that over 110 motor officers have already registered for this event, which the RCMP will host at their regional training center. Check out their website for additional information.

Two Wheels Going Green - the Electric Motorcycle Miracle

I’ve been riding motorcycles for more than forty years. I would be correctly classified as a “motorcyclist” as I embrace all brands and models, period. It’s likely that my personal experience with motorcycles may, in some small measure, mirror your own. That is, we tend to remain focused on motorcycles featuring the all important internal combustion engine. The internal combustion engine has been the “king-of-the-hill” for the past 100 or so years. Well, times are changing and quickly. The advancement of electric motorcycle technology may now make the way for electric motorcycles. I, for one, am green with envy.

Throughout the history of motorcycles we’ve witnessed one important design change and engineering advance after another. After all, just a few short years ago who would have contemplated complex electronic fuel injection systems, catalytic converters, or advanced ABS braking systems being considered as “standard equipment,” routinely offered on many of the motorcycles we ride today. Like most areas of advancing technology, motorcycle technology and resulting design is moving ahead at a fast pace. With the pace of change we’re now experiencing it is safe to say that the growth of electric motorcycles may yet result in a real paradigm shift for the manufacturer and riding customer.

Surprisingly, electric powered motorcycles are starting to come on strong. In fact, one company, Zero Motorcycles has reportedly had trouble keeping pace with demand. Another noteworthy company is Vectrix, as they also produce some remarkable electric motorcycles. The real “story-behind-the-story” with respect to these new electric motorcycles is lithium ion battery technology. That’s where we’ve really witnessed the real technology advance. In fact, some of these new battery packs actually include hundreds of individual cells. These new lithium ion batteries are long-lasting, efficient and don’t overheat. Actually, some of the electric motorcycles currently being offered in the marketplace today generate over 17,000 watts of power and have a range of 30-40 miles. Sounds intriguing, right? That sort of motorcycle should get you around town and then some.

This new breed of electric motorcycles is affordable, with several high-quality motorcycles in the $7-8,000 range, which feature to feature compare favorably to many other motorcycle offerings.

Electric motorcycles result in zero emissions and represent a clean alternative to the many motorcycles internal combustion powered products still being manufactured by many companies. That’s why companies such as Zero and Vectrix are showing us the way ahead. What will future, advancing technology, bring to the power and range capability of electric motorcycles?

Law enforcement traffic services may be well-served by incorporating electric motorcycles into the many fleets nationwide. It’s also a much cooler look that the old three-wheel “meter maid” type of vehicles, or for that matter small displacement motorcycles. We’re now experiencing gasoline at nearly $5/gallon and municipal budgets (not to mention personal budgets) are being stretched at every turn. In particular, Vectrix is moving ahead to embrace police and fleet sales opportunities; perhaps it’s time to consider electric. Ten years from now this change will be old news.

The next time you’re considering a motorcycle for those around town travels think electric. Going green never looked so good. Click the links below to visit manufacturer web sites.

Zero Motorcycles

Vectrix

Quantya

Brammo Motorsports | Brammo Enertia

Electric Motorsport

Starting a Motor Unit

Step One. So, you’re thinking about starting a motor unit within your agency. Maybe the department had motorcycles in the past (around 1963) and given the price of gasoline today has a renewed interest in motors. What a great concept: fuel economy. There’s also the very real liklihood that several of your officers may already ride, a natural contributing factor, but don’t take it for granted that those officers will be your most effective and productive motor officers. There may also be a real need for an aggressive traffic enforcement program in your jurisdiction. After all, traffic congestion continues to grow and is a real problem in most areas. A solid traffic enforcement program, which essentially works to address lesser offenses, actively contributes to the control all manner of potential criminal offenses or activities.

Why Motorcycles? Motorcycles offer a unique advantage to squad cars. They can work in tight, confined spaces where you can’t place a squad, positioned for immediate response to traffic offenses. There are so many uses for motorcycles, ranging from red-light enforcement, basic traffic, dignitary escort, speeding, DUI enforcement, etc. Most importantly, on a motorcycle you’re definitely “close-to-the-customer,” and can easily converse and effectively communicate with the public. In short, motorcycles are also a positive public relations tool with the general public.

Planning. Starting a motor unit is a great deal of work, please don’t think otherwise. There will be a great deal of effort involved in your start-up. Naturally, there’s budget and personnel considerations but also the development of a standard operating procedure (SOP) which other allied agencies may be able to provide. Your policy needs to address all operating practices of the unit, or the envisioned “mission.” Again, your neighboring agencies might be helpful to you as they may already have an SOP to use as a template; you should review and adjust it to your needs although it’s likely that they have already addressed most areas of concern.

Next Steps. Based on my years of being involved on the ground floor with many agencies acting to start motor units, I believe the greatest challenge facing those agencies is the failure to plan. What’s that old saying, “Failing to plan is planning to fail.” It’s certainly true with regard to motor units. Some of the other related topics you’ll need to address include:

• Motorcycles (brand/model)
• Outfitting the motorcycles (emergency option equipment)
• Radio communications (including helmet communication systems)
• Did I mention budget and personnel? BTW, the most effective motor officers are your best performing patrol officers today
• Training of those officers. Do not start a motor unit without having your officers properly trained
• Riding apparel (Trust me, it’s a long list and a topic for another time)
• Duty tours and hours of operation
• Seasonality/temperature
• Rain
• Your idea here

Training! Motor Officers must receive the proper training. Riding a fully-equipped police model motorcycle in an enforcement capacity is radically different from pleasure riding. There are many solid motor officer training programs available today. Some of the best basic and instructor programs are those conducted under the auspices of Northwestern University Center for Public Safety. Motor Officer training courses are also available at the Institute of Police Technology and Management in Jacksonville, FL which also conducts noteworthy motor officer training courses. In addition, there are many other agencies which conduct their own training and will often act to train your officers at little or no charge. Some of the best I’m aware of include the Milwaukee Police Department and the U.S. Park Police, Washington, D.C.. In the past both agencies have trained officers at no-charge. Certainly there are many other “cooperative” departments offering competent instructors and effective training.

Use. Please keep in mind that motorcycles are best used during daylight hours and when it’s not raining. In short, it’s always a good idea to have a backup plan. That is, spare squads or the ability to revert to two-person squads is always a good idea.

Implementation. Again, if you plan effectively and work to institute your program in a well-defined and managed fashion you’ll quickly have an effective and productive program, which will act to complement existing traffic enforcement.

Motorcycle Safety Awareness – It’s Critical

Ah, it’s springtime across this great nation of ours. Maybe it’s time to get that motorcycle out of storage and begin a new riding season. If you’re a civilian and new to motorcycles, or a long time rider, the Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) has a course for you. On the other hand, If you’re a motor officer it may be time to brush up your skills once again. If you haven’t been to Motor School, you’d better take the time to do so. You might wish to check out programs offered under the auspices of The Center for Public Safety, Northwestern University. There are many great motor schools available out there; perhaps one of your local agencies may allow you to train with them, at little or no cost to your agency. If you’ve already been to training then consider a refresher course, or “in-service” training. Riding skills diminish and must be kept as fresh as that first day after motor school.

As you may know, along with the growing popularity of motorcycles accident rates have increased proportionately. I’d like to share a few tips for both the drivers of passenger vehicles as well as all motorcycles riders. Hey, we’re all in this together and are striving to enhance our collective personal safety. Most importantly, your personal involvement may save a life.

Tips for passenger vehicles:

1. Watch out for motorcycles. Check blind spots attentively before switching lanes and always look twice at intersections before you turn or pull out into traffic.
2. Anticipate hazards that may confront a motorcyclist such as large potholes, debris, or generally poor road conditions. Allow at least two seconds of following distance between your vehicle and the motorcycle you’re behind.
3. Be cautious when making a left turn as this is when a majority of crashes between vehicles and motorcycles occur.
4. Share the road with motorcycles. Remember, motorcyclists are entitled to operate in a full traffic lane.
5. Obey all traffic laws especially as they relate to using your turn signals when switching lanes and yielding to other vehicular traffic.

Tips for motorcycle riders:

1. Wear proper protective equipment and clothing, especially a good quality helmet. I know how confining helmets can be but how about a hospital bed?
2. Make yourself visible by wearing bright clothing; possibly use reflective tape, or a vest. Your motorcycle’s headlight should be illuminated both day and night. Always use your turn signals when switching lanes and turning.
3. Check out your motorcycle before each ride and do not ride if any equipment is not functioning properly. Be mindful of your service intervals and follow manufacturer’s recommendations.
4. Scan and look ahead for road hazards. Be especially cautious around intersections, alleys, driveways, and other areas where an animal, pedestrian, or other motor vehicle might enter your path.
5. You should always avoid riding in other vehicles’ blind spots.
6. Give yourself plenty of room between vehicles. Never tailgate and leave enough room and time so you may react to unexpected movements from other vehicles.
7. When operating a motorcycle during any form of inclement weather slow down and use extra caution. Avoid a sudden change in direction or speed.

Motorcycles are more difficult to see than other vehicles. Crashes may occur simply because other motorists do not notice the motorcycle. All motorists should be aware that motorcycles are on the road so please take the time for a second look before pulling into an intersection, or when making a turn. In short, pay attention! Again, it only takes a second to save a life.

Southwest Police Motorcycle Training & Competition

Location: Suncoast Hotel, Las Vegas, NV
Latitude: 36° 10’ North
Longitude: 115° 10′ West
Dates: April 4-5, 2008
High Temp: 80° F
Low Temp: 54° F
Clouds: Slight overcast
Visibility: 10 miles

This past weekend I was honored to attend the SW Police Motorcycle Training & Competition held in Las Vegas, NV. This training competition event was attended by more than 150 motor officers representing 23 law enforcement agencies from all over the Southwest and beyond. They came from many locations including Wichita Falls, San Diego, Citrus Heights, and Eugene. Yes, I’m proud to say that law enforcement still rules in Sin City USA. The Las Vegas Metro Police Department was a tremendous host and put on a first class event.

The rodeo was held at the Suncoast Hotel & Casino, which proved to be an excellent location for the event. The hotel is off of the strip which allowed us to have a very large space to run the event. And the hotel was very reasonably priced. You can’t beat that.

The event coordinators included many challenging patterns and exercises (PDF), which can be described an symbolic of Las Vegas itself, e.g., the “Ace of Spades, ”Slot Machine,” Snake Eyes,” Ace of Hearts,” Ace of Diamonds, Ace of Clubs,” and the “Slow Ride.” Okay, I’ve heard of the “Slow Ride” many times before; however, I have yet to have a winning “Royal Flush.”

In order to compete at the SWPMTC you must ride a police model motorcycle with a displacement of at least 1000cc and it must be equipped in a normal deployment configuration. That is, a “fully dressed,” certified police model motorcycle. Interestingly, if as a practice your department opts to remove fork stops, and that is your normal deployment configuration, then you are allowed to compete on that motorcycle. That position is rather unique as many rodeos are now moving to enforce no modification rules.

The SW Rodeo rotates between major agencies each year; given the wonderful hospitality of the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department I would have to “bet” that we’ll be back again.

Results and a few pictures from the event can be found here. Congratulations to all involved.