Police Bike Patrols

In May of 1997, the Cheltenham Police Department introduced our Bike Unit as a part of our proactive policing initiative. The Department obtained grant funding for this initiative and today, our Bike Unit is an important part of our Patrol Force.    

An extension of our community policing effort, the bike patrols provide officers with greater opportunities to connect with residents and business people. Building stronger rapport and better communication between police and community members can help officers resolve concerns before they develop into problems.

Moreover, bikes offer police greater maneuverability and access to areas where cars can't go, a potential advantage in apprehension situations.

Training and Equipment

All of our Bike Officers complete an in-house 40 hour training course in bicycle maneuvers and safety techniques. The Unit has our own IPMBA certified Bike instructor, and we offer this training our Officers and to other Public Safety Agencies. Practice terrain includes riding streets, shopping malls, staircases, and off road terrain.                                                                      

The bicycles are part of a special police package, designed to withstand rugged use. Of course, officers wear helmets and still carry police radios. Since the program is year-round, the officers have summer and winter uniforms both clearly labeled "POLICE."

Our Bike Officers participate in most major events throughout  the Township. These Officers cover events such as our 4th of July parades, the LaMott Street Fair, the East Cheltenham Car Show, Glenside Street Fair,  Glenside Car Show, and the Harvest Festival. In addition to special events, patrols will regularly ride through Township neighborhoods and our business districts.

Cheltenham Police encourages everyone to get to know our Bike Patrol Officers whenever they ride by, to share concerns, or simply just say hello.