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Date Published: 11/09/2023

How to recognise camouflaged motorbike cops on Spanish roads

In addition to vans and cars, the DGT in Spain uses undercover motorcycles to fine drivers

The General Directorate of Traffic (DGT) in Spain has several ways of monitoring the safety of Spanish roads, although the vast majority of fines are still delivered via cameras and radars. The most common offence in Spain is speeding, followed by driving without a valid ITV or insurance and driving while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

Fixed radars are the ones drivers are probably most familiar with, since they are visibly placed on structures on the roadside and their exact location can be found on the DGT website.

Mobile radars change position and are often installed in vehicles belonging to traffic officers. These are also a usual sight on Spanish roads but motorcycle police have also joined the team.

How to spot a camouflaged police motorbike

Just like the traffic cars and vans run by the DGT, motorcycles usually have a mobile radar wired into their chassis. For obvious reasons, the vehicles are camouflaged, so they’re not decked out in the traditional colours of the Guardia Civil Traffic division.

However, it’s still possible to pick them out on a crowded motorway, since the authorities have been using two distinctive models: the Honda ST 13000 and the BMW R1150 RT. Those that have already been spotted on Spanish roads are all in discreet colours also, most often grey.

The main function of motorcycle police is to monitor driver behaviour and pick up common infractions like using a mobile phone while driving or failing to wear a seatbelt, but most can also flag a car for speeding.

Usually, when an officer on a motorbike notices an offence he will notify a nearby mobile patrol to fine the corresponding driver. If the officer’s radar detects speeding, then the sanction will automatically be mailed to the motorists address and uploaded to the DGT’s electronic system, the Electronic Road Directorate (DEV).

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Image: DGT

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