Anyone on two wheels is a friend

Well said Ed.

Who the fuck advises them on cycling procurement ? Why the fuck do our police ride on London's roads with 2.4 inch MTB tyres ? It must be a fucking nightmare to ride one of those bikes dressed like a storm trooper.

It still always cracks me up that many police bikes are Smith & Wesson.

But the answer to your question is here:

http://www.ipmba.org/

Basically, these guys set international standards of pedal cycle-based policing. It all (re-)started in Seattle some years ago, I think. There must be operational reasons why MTBs were chosen--hopping kerbs, riding across rough terrain, perhaps.

And by all accounts it's not a nightmare. Most of the cycle police I've spoken to say that it's 'the best kept secret in the police' and a very enjoyable way to work.