Police departments are switching to BMW

I'm seeing more and more of them on the road. Apparently they're safer than their obsolete Kawasaki counterparts. Safer Bikes for Fresno Police Fresno police officials hope a new type of motorcycle keeps officers safer during accidents. The department is now switching over from the smaller Kawasaki to the larger BMW. Some of the features on the new bikes include lower front end gravity and anti-lock brakes. Fresno police lieutenant Andy Hall explained the importance of the safer motorcycles, "It's probably one of the most hazardous jobs in law enforcement, and anything we can do to make it safer, like boots we wear, we tend to go that direction." The Fresno Police Department has 70 motorcycle officers. The force is working on the transition for its whole fleet of bikes. Right now, there are only 15 of the older Kawasakis remaining on the streets. http://abclocal.go.com/kfsn/news/062204_nw_safer_bikes.html

I think the Lambo police car would be more my style: http://www.auto123.com/ArtImages/24804/inline01.jpg

I lobbied Chandler PD and got two bikes on their budget but they have yet to actually purchase them. The operational costs are actually lower on the BMW even though they are more expensive to acquire up front.

I'm guessing the tecnical know-how and parts supply is what's keeping the K's around. Gilbert switched to BMW's a few years ago now despite that.

I remember talking about that, Victory was not really up to snuff at the time. They still arent that great. I'm not sure but I think Gilbert had one of their techs get BMW certified.

They are still using Kaw's here in Tucson.

BMW bikes with ABS and linked braking systems are much safer bikes for Police officers. Next time you see an officer driving a BMW, ask him how he likes his BMW. Most of them will tell you, braking system is awsome.

Last time I visited San Diego, the CHP officer who stopped me was on a Bimmer. A little bike chat and I am on my way, sans ticket. ;) Cheers!

Last time I visited San Diego, the CHP officer who stopped me was on a Bimmer. A little bike chat and I am on my way, sans ticket. ;) Cheers! CHP uses BMW R1150 Rt's :thumbs: When ever I talk with CHP motor bike officers, they just rave about their BMW's ;)