Bicycles have a long-standing history with the Toronto Police Service. From the 1870's, single-speed "Planet" bicycles (made in Toronto) were first used as an efficient means of chasing down "scorchers" - reckless youths on other bicycles. Until the 1930's, there were twice as many bikes as there were vehicles on the Toronto Police Force! Those bikes were used by road Sergeants to visit beat patrolmen and to check extensive properties, but not for general patrol. They gradually fell into disuse by the early 1950's as mechanized patrol vehicles replaced them. It wasn't until the mid 1980's that the bicycle was re-introduced to our police service. Ironically, it was largely due to mechanization that they were brought back. By that time, there were so many vehicles in Toronto, bicycles again became one of the most efficient means of travel on our congested streets. They have also proven invaluable in negotiating narrow back alleys and lanes, as well as a myriad of parks and bicycle paths throughout the city. The bikes provide officers with silent and swift transportation to any situation.

Modern police bikes are a far cry from the original "Planet" bikes. They are specially equipped 21-speed 'mountain bikes' with powerful dual lighting systems, saddlebags, and heavy duty spring and shock suspensions.

TPS bicycles are used at most parades, demonstrations and security details. Their manoeuvrability enables officers to quickly glide through crowds and monitor any "hot spots". They are also great tension breakers in these situations. Dialogue with participants is unimpeded by any physical and psychological barrier sometimes associated with marked police vehicles. Officers who apply to work on the bicycle patrol must meet stringent criteria, including possessing the current police fitness pin. Preference is given to those who have been avid cyclists prior to applying. Once accepted, they must pass an extensive "Can Bike Course" which evaluates and upgrades their bike handling skills.

Typical of TPS bike patrols is 14 Division's unit in the downtown core.

The squad is comprised of two permanent members per shift, with other qualified riders available to fill in or supplement their numbers during special events.

Bike officer duties include general patrol, enforcement and providing educational programs, often in conjunction with the Divisional Community Response Unit. No. 14 Division's bike officers are available year-round (weather permitting) to assist plainclothes squads in patrolling areas subject to prostitution and drug related activities. In the summer months, they are also kept busy monitoring numerous parades and demonstrations. In addition, officers participate in school 'bike rodeos', and liaise with the city 'Bicycle Task Force', contributing to ongoing bicycle traffic initiatives.

The Toronto Police Service has approximately 170 police bicycles deployed across the city. These bicycles are a specialized and particularly effective mode of transportation for our Service.