Reviews

Product Review - IPMBA
Volcanic Manufacturing - Approach Bicycle
Olympia, Washington

After speaking with Eric and Mike from Volcanic Manufacturing at the 2005 IPMBA Conference in Scottsdale, AZ and riding their bike around for a time at the show, I made contact with them in late fall 2005. The Enforcer bicycle that they had introduced to the police sector and which was being utilized by the Seattle Police Department, was unheard of on the East Coast and in an effort to help them increase their marketing and to obtain feedback on their bicycle, they agreed to ship me a model for evaluation.

I can report that I am glad the inquiry was made and I had the opportunity to 'wear-test' the bicycle. In addition to riding the bicycle myself, it was utilized during three IPMBA bike training sessions to obtain a non-biased opinion of the bike but new riders - one Police Cyclist and two EMS Cyclist class. The Enforcer model, available in either white or black frame, came complete with top of the line components.

Sporting SRAM-9 rapid fire shifters (also available in grip shift if desired) matched up to LX/XT front/rear derailleur's and a 44 tooth big chain ring, the gearing system operated smoothly at all times, even with the additional weight carried by the EMS personnel in their pannier bags. Equipped with Marzocchi Bomber front shocks, a Cane Creek threadless headset, Avid disc brakes (160mm calipers) and industry standard Continental Town and Country tires, the bike handled more than competently in all phases of use.

Stair ascent and descents both static and dynamic; curb hoping; trail riding; performing quick-turns and emergency braking drills and general riding on the road presented no challenges for the Enforcer. The bike was nimble and maneuverable and held up to the rigors of the various crash survival skills that the officers were taught including 'crashes' into fixed objects and being pitched over the handle bars.

The only minor issue encountered was accommodating the bike with pannier bags for use during the EMS class. The tapered struts of the gear rack that was supplied with the bike did not prevent the bags from contacting the disc brake caliper. A simple change-out to a different manufacturer's rack quickly solved the 'problem'.

The Volcanic bicycles can be ordered with various features depending on the needs of the officer and department. Various levels and types of shifters are available, or it can be equipped with regular platform pedals or a clipless pedaling system if desired. During the course of the evaluation, Eric and Mike from Volcanic remained in touch and interested in the performance testing process - they are clearly interested in providing a top-of-the-line police performance bicycle. And in my opinion, have clearly achieved that.

While some departments might not have the financial ability to step up to a top-of-the-line bicycle like that produced by Volcanic Manufacturing, there is no doubt that it is an excellent performer and worth the costs in the long run. I look forwarded to their continued involvement in the police bicycle field.

Sgt. John F. Washington Jr.
IPMBA Instructor Trainer for
Police/EMS Cycling Programs