Cary traffic police get new unifoms, cycles

Designed especially for motorcycle riding, the new uniforms are equipped with reinforced nylon and pads to protect the officer in the event of a crash, officials said. Full-face helmets offer more protection for the officer’s face and help decrease wind noise so officers can better communicate on their radios.

The BMW motorcycles offer greater safety in braking distance and improved handling under normal and adverse driving conditions, officials said. The motorcycles are designed exclusively for use by law enforcement officers, providing faster acceleration and smoother manageability.

“Safety is our No. 1 priority, which is why we switched to the reinforced uniforms and motorcycles designed specifically for law enforcement,” Capt. Tracy Jernigan said in a statement. “Of course, we’re also very happy that the motorcycle purchases are expected to cut our bottom line and save the town money long-term.”

The four motorcycles cost $90,296, and the uniforms cost $1,648, officials said.

Previously, Cary leased Harley Davidson motorcycles at a cost of $21,200 a year. Based on conservative estimates, officials said, Cary should save 25 percent to 45 percent over conventional leasing terms over a six-year period, or about $50,000.