YARMOUTH (WBZ) ― Forget the sirens and cruisers. Police are now turning to a different mode of transportation to patrol the streets.
On Friday, officers from the South Shore and the Cape trained to use bicycles that aren't just for riding -- they're being used as weapons and to run through obstacles to make the arrest.
"We try to make it as realistic as possible as what we see out on the streets," said Hanover police Officer Jim Smith.
It's all part of what's called Cobweb Training. It puts cops on bikes and gives them the training and tools to fight crime on two wheels.
"Nowadays community policing is very popular. We're effective. We're a deterrent and we're quicker," Smith said.
"The combination of being on a bike and performing duties can become complex," said Lt. John Norkaitis with the Hingham Police Department. "We need to make sure they're using safe tactics and riding habits as well."
The training shows cops how to handle different terrain from pavement to dirt.
About 20 officers from the South Shore and the Cape put their endurance and skills to the test in Yarmouth. In town, officers on bikes have already helped fight crime.
"People don't expect someone to pull up silently, quickly," said Yarmouth police Lt. Steve Xiarhos. "It's a great way to solve problems and help community."
The only fuel that's used comes from the strength of the men and women on patrol.
More and more communities are training officers for bike patrol.
A big part of the reason is because the cost of an average cruiser is about $34,000, while the cost of a fully equipped bike is only $1,000. It saves a lot on fuel and helps fight crime.
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