One of the key components of effective security bike riding is proper body position. It is the first place to start and will make all the difference in your team member's ability to perform techniques and function in a security role.

Proper leg position translates into leg power, or better, potential leg power. If the leg extends too far on the down stroke, potential force will be lost. Likewise, is the leg does not extend far enough, the same potential force is dissipated on the down stroke. Force generated by the legs is the sole method of moving a mountain bike. When force is generated efficiently, the bike moves more effectively. It's that simple. Losing potential force means the rider has to work harder.

Proper leg position is achieved by insuring that the knee has a slight bend when the pedal in the down, or 6 o'clock position.

The placement of the foot on the pedal goes a long way to determining how much stability the rider has. It also helps to position the entire leg in order to generate that potential force explained above.

After the initial adjustment to the bike, lingering pain is almost always the result of improper back alignment.

When the back is in proper alignment, it forms a straight line from the base of the spine to the top of the shoulders. This is a natural comfortable position that, if maintained, ensures a comfortable ride. Alignment is most commonly achieved through proper placement of the seat, however, many factors can contribute to back alignment, including handlebar height and bike frame size.

To receive more information on effective riding, or if you are looking to start a bike patrol, reserve your copy of the soon-to-be released Bike Force book. Written for the specific needs of the security profession, Bike Force takes the reader from the earliest stages of starting a bike patrol to the final stages of continuous training. With all the information and hints needed along the way to make your patrol the most effective it can be. And, as always, the book is written with a strong slant towards guest service.