Police on Friday said bicycle patrol officers will wear a new uniform and carry extra equipment during a three-month trial from Monday designed to enhance public awareness of cycling safety.

The team of 20 officers will get new foldable bikes and will don short-sleeved, sweat-absorbent uniforms that are more suitable for cycling.

They'll carry first-aid kits during their patrols along cycle lanes in the New Territories, and their helmets will come with flashing lights.

The force said the new bikes and uniforms will also be clearly marked with the word "Police" in both Chinese and English.

“As cycling activities have become more popular in recent years, there has been an increasing trend for the number of traffic accidents involving bicycles. The total number of such accidents was about 1,800 to 2,000 per year before 2019, but has increased to 2,500 to 3,000 per year since 2020. Therefore we can see the urgent need to enhance cycling safety,” said chief inspector Kerry Ku.

More than 3,000 cyclists were caught violating traffic regulations in the first nine months of the year. Ku said common offences include not having a tail light and cycling carelessly.

He said by refreshing its image, the force hopes to engage more with the public and promote cycling safety education.

“We hope to bring a new breath of life to the public, so that the public will be closer to us, and so that our promotional education will have a better effect.”

Ku added that the patrol team will also be equipped with pepper spray and batons to deal with emergencies or serious crimes.