The Motorcycle Division was implemented in 2005 utilizing two Harley-Davidson Road King motorcycles. The Richland Township Police Department has four officers assigned to this unit including an OIC/Training Officer. The motor officers train one day a month for eight hours at the John Murtha/Cambria County Airport. Before an officer is accepted in the unit he must complete the basic and advanced motorcycle courses offered by the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation. He then must complete satisfactorily the motorcycle course established by the Richland Township Police Department. This rigorous course modeled after the nationally recognized course put on by Harley-Davidson tests the motor officer’s skills in all aspects of motorcycle operation. He is required to demonstrate a level of operational proficiency to the satisfaction of the unit’s O.I.C. and continue to do so on a monthly basis.

The motorcycle Unit is a highly visible, community oriented, patrol unit. The motorcycle is recognized as an effective patrol vehicle in that it combines mobility with close citizen contact. In addition to the Unit’s patrol responsibilities the motor officers are used to build and improve community relations. In essence the unit is used to improve the police department’s image within the community and build on the department’s relationship with the children and young adults of Richland Township.