INSPIRED TRAINING PRODUCES EFFECTIVE MOTOR OFFICERS
PROPER AND FREQUENT IN-SERVICE TRAINING IS VITAL TO A POLICE MOTORCYCLE OFFICER’S (PMO) SAFETY AND SURVIVAL. THE METHOD THAT SUCH TRAINING IS CONDUCTED AND PRESENTED IS PERHAPS EVEN MORE IMPORTANT.
Whether the training occurs monthly, quarterly or yearly, the instructor must inspire the students to con- tinuously improve, and not allow the training to become stale and produce ineffective “side-stand training.”
EVASIVE ACTION
Where should such training be focused? Multiple motorcycle studies for PMO’s have identifi ed the top-three causes of accidents for PMOs:
1) IMPROPER BRAKING 2) FAILURE TO TAKE EVASIVE ACTION 3) CURVE NEGOTIATION
This is why the combination of accident-avoidance exer-
cises and in-service training are essential for overall safety. I’m asked frequently how to train new offi cers with an
Anti-Lock Braking (ABS) system, and whether the system can be disconnected. I strongly advise that you do not disconnect the anti-lock system to teach conventional braking. ABS is a safety net that if removed during training and a student is injured, could make your agency liable. However, conventional non-ABS braking should be
instructed to new and current PMO’s, for the simple reason that anti-lock systems are electronic and could fail. It’s possible to practice conventional braking while utilizing
an ABS-equipped motorcycle: It involves brake modulation up to the point of ABS activation. This is the most effective brake operation on motorcycles without ABS (or on those whose ABS has failed).