The study findings suggest that bicycle patrols are superior to automobile patrols in providing interaction with both pedestrians and people in motor vehicles. Bicycle patrols were also more likely to observe illicit activities or situations in which people needed help, as bicycle officers were better able to see, hear, and even smell what was happening in their vicinity. Disadvantages of bicycle patrol are the lack of physical protection provided by the patrol car, as well as a lack of capacity to carry data and communications equipment. When bicycle patrols are equipped with portable data link devices, their capabilities for obtaining information on warrants and vehicles will enhance their tactical advantage compared with car patrols. This 5-city study involved 32 shifts in the examination of the output of police bicycle and car patrols. Same and similar ride-alongs were conducted with bicycle and car patrols. All contacts with the public (n=1,105) were recorded and coded. Data addressed the number of people contacted or encountered, the nature of the contact, and its source and context. 5 tables and 38 references