The Knightdale Police Department’s Bike Patrol Team was established in 2010 and is comprised of volunteers from both the Patrol Division and Support Services Division. This is a part time unit that utilizes specially designed mountain / hybrid bicycles to allow for patrolling under unique circumstances in all types of terrain where standard patrol cars are not effective.
By creating a high level of visibility and faster response time during special operations; such as the Town of Knightdale’s Fourth of July celebration, Christmas Parade, Family Day (K-Fest), and other large crowd events, the bike patrol responds to any and all disturbances to keep the peace. General patrol duties consist of high density shopping centers, greenways, and public parks.
The Bike Patrol’s secondary function is to interact with the community in a positive manner. Whether educating the public in bike safety or performing Bike Rodeos for children or adults, the Bike Team is committed to creating a positive environment with the rider’s safety in mind. In addition, we have partnered with Wake County Active Routes to Schools as well as Triangle Off Road Cycling (TORC-NC) to teach rider skills and safety during our Psyched about Bikes event held every May during Bike Safety month.
Each member of the Bike Patrol Team must complete a 40 hour bike school certified by IPMBA (International Police Mountain Bike Association). KPD officers learn about low and high speed biking, road hazards, obstacle clearing, how to avoid common crashes, how to make rolling apprehensions, and basic bike maintenance and repair.
Each member of the Bike Patrol Unit is equipped with all necessary safety equipment. This includes, but is not limited to: bike helmets, front and rear lights, and pedal retention devices. KPD Bike Patrol Officers practice the ABC Quick-Check before hitting the road, and encourages other riders to do the same.
A– Air: tire pressure up? (Look for the right pressure on the side of the tire)
B – Brakes: firm grip, secure pads?
C – Crank/Chain: turning smoothly?
The Knightdale Police Departments Bike Patrol team is available to host or assist in creating bike safety seminars, bicycle rodeos, or safety checks and inspections. For more information about our bicycle patrol unit, contact Captain Danny Phillips.