Inside Close Protection

The Escort Motorcyclist

In dense and congested traffic situations common to most major cities in the world, one of the most versatile and effective components that an Close protection escort detail can have is the motorcyclist. Traditionally motorcyclists are used in elected-official entourages. In most cases, they are uniformed police officers that clear the way for the advancing convoy, and, in some cases, their task is strictly ceremonial.

In this article, we'll discuss a different kind of escort cyclist—plain clothes motorcycle-mounted agents, who are an integral part of the escort detail.

These agents, when properly trained and equipped, can carry out the following cardinal tasks:

· Short range/real-time reconnaissance

· Deterrence/interception of motorcycle and other attacks

· Emergency evacuations

· Running last-minute errands

Short range reconnaissance

Running a few hundred yards ahead of the convoy, the Close protection Agent can radio back real-time warnings to the convoy leader regarding: traffic jams, obstacles, threats or any other suspicious occurrence that should be avoided or taken in consideration. With the help of the front runner, a convoy could be diverted in time, so it won't be trapped, while the front-running cyclist who got into the tight spot has a good chance of maneuvering himself out of it (unlike larger vehicles) to reassume his position as the front runner shortly afterward.

If there are more than one cyclist, the front runner can be replaced immediately by one of his peers until he manages to rejoin the convoy.

Motorcycle-attack deterrence/interception

The popularity of the motorcycle as an attack vehicle has risen for obvious reasons. Its agility, speed, maneuverability, and availability—not to mention the total (and legitimate) driver disguise—make it the ideal attack-getaway tool. Integrating the same tool in a defense unit takes away the aggressor's edge and provides the defense layout with proactive capabilities in addition to preventive deterrence.

Emergency evacuations

Once a principal vehicle is stranded in heavy, stand-still traffic, a motorcycle can become an excellent last recourse VIP evacuation tool.

Running errands

Escort work is a very demanding and dynamic occupation; the Close protection Agent have to deal with constantly changing situations and sometimes with capricious dignitaries. Necessities pop up at the spur of the moment, and all too frequently, important items are forgotten or lost. Having a fast retrieving gopher on hand can save the day.

In short, although sometimes restricted by weather conditions, a good, flexible motorcycle escort is one of the most important assets for the Close protection team and in an escort detail.