Bicycle Patrol Unit

The Bike Patrol Unit consists of 17 specially trained and outfitted officers who patrol campus on mountain bikes in all kinds of weather. Bike patrol significantly enhances our proactive approach to law enforcement and service to the community. Bike officers are much more visible and approachable, which helps them get to know students and staff. Their inherent mobility allows for a quick response time and improves their efficiency in patrolling the inner recesses of the largely pedestrian academic area, parking lots, the steep terrain of the observatory, and the Orchard Hill and Sylvan residential areas. Additionally, because of the agility, speed, and stealth characteristics of the bicycles, officers are able to quietly and quickly surprise suspects engaged in the act of committing crimes.

The officers ride specially designed Cannondale, Specialized, Trek, and Smith & Wesson mountain bikes. Each bike is outfitted with aggressive all-terrain tires, off-road suspension systems, headlights, and a rear rack with a compact duty bag. Officers must complete 32 hours of training as well as an annual eight-hour refresher course to maintain bicyclist-officer certification. During instructional sessions, officers train through various skills courses, up and down stairs, and over obstacles.  They also receive instruction in bicycle maintenance and health concerns, and participate in physical conditioning and multi-mile endurance rides.

CONTACT

UMPD
585 East Pleasant Street
Amherst, MA 01003-9600

umpd@admin.umass.edu
413-545-2121 non-emergency
413-545-3111 emergency or 911
413-545-3113 fax

Tips

Call 413-577-TIPS (8477) or use our Anonymous Witness Form.