HAMPSHIRE Police has reduced its motorcycle fleet from 126 bikes to 44 after a review of costs between cars and bikes. The reduction has been going on gradually over the past seven years – the last major reduction being from 80 to 44 bikes. After reviewing various aspects of the fleet, the constabulary decided it would be more economical to re-invest in cars.

John Bradley, fleet manager for Hampshire Police, said: 'We looked at the costs of running our fleet of bikes as they can be quite high. We believe they are not as fuel-efficient as cars and maintenance costs such as replacing tyres can also be quite high. For a similar price, you can buy a small car which would also accommodate other people.'

Wholelife costs and aspects of risk management were also assessed alongside the methods of policing for motorcycles. Police bikes have additional requirements in comparison to ordinary motorcycle fleets. As special equipment is required, the handling and weight of the bike can be affected. It can also increase the drag of the machine, which in turn affects the fuel economy.

'Motorcycles also have costs such as training officers to use the bikes and providing additional uniform,' Bradley said.

Despite cutting its fleet, Hampshire Police does not intend to further reduce numbers in the near future. Bradley added: 'Even though we have reduced the motorcycle fleet, we have re-invested the money in police cars, mainly Volvo V70s but also traffic vehicles and the new model Ford Fiestas.'