BATU KAWAN: Bukit Aman traffic police are currently trying out several models of high-powered motorcycles with the intent of replacing its ageing fleet of motorcycles, some as old as 30 years.
Six motorcycles from three models, designed in China and Austria and assembled in Penang, were handed over to the Bukit Aman Traffic Investigation and Enforcement Department (JSPT) on Monday.
Over the next three months, the motorcycles will be tested under actual operating conditions to assess their handling, performance, reliability and suitability for traffic enforcement duties.
The largest is a 1,279cc touring motorcycle powered by a V-twin engine producing 141hp and 120Nm of torque.
Weighing 304kg, the Chinese model has a six-speed gearbox, a 22.7-litre fuel tank, cruise control and advanced braking systems. Designed for long-distance highway travel, it is suited to traffic patrols and escort duties.
The second is a 750cc touring motorcycle intended as a lighter alternative for patrol and escort work. This Austrian product is powered by a liquid-cooled parallel-twin engine, with a six-speed gearbox and a 24-litre fuel tank.
Weighing 270kg dry, it has adjustable seat heights, disc brakes, a full-colour digital display, heated grips, an adjustable windscreen and side luggage compartments.
The third one is a 1,187cc adventure touring motorcycle producing 129hp and 106Nm of torque.
This Italian model weighs 283kg and has a 24.5-litre fuel tank, traction control, cruise control and anti-lock brakes. Its higher ground clearance and suspension make it suitable for both highway patrols and operations on rougher roads.
Another 10 motorcycles from these three models will be delivered later, bringing the total number involved in the trial to 16.
Bukit Aman JSPT director Comm Datuk Seri Muhammed Hasbullah Ali said the evaluation will help police determine whether the motorcycles met their operational requirements.
He said many motorcycles in the department’s fleet were in poor condition and urgently needed replacing.
“As an agency responsible for enforcing road safety, we cannot rely on assets that are in outdated condition,” he said at a press conference after the launch of the proof-of-concept programme.
Comm Muhammed Hasbullah said JSPT is preparing a proposal to the government to address its shortage of reliable motorcycles and other equipment.
The department is working with Bukit Aman’s Logistics and Technology Department to identify practical solutions for its ageing fleet.
