SHERIDAN, WYOMING – June 11, 2025 – For decades, BMW motorcycles were a rare sight in American law enforcement fleets dominated by Harley-Davidsons and Kawasakis. But thanks to bold innovation and strategic partnerships, BMW Motorrad successfully carved out a place with one of the most iconic police forces in the U.S.—the California Highway Patrol (CHP).
A historic shift in American police motorcycles
BMW’s relationship with police forces stretches back to the 1930s in Europe, but it wasn’t until 1984 that the German brand made its first major inroads in the U.S. with a sale of around 150 R 100 RTs to the San Francisco Police Department. That early success was short-lived, though, as BMW retreated from the U.S. authority market after a competitor’s legal setback.
The turning point came in the early 1990s when BMW introduced anti-lock braking systems (ABS) on the K 100 and K 75 motorcycles. As Frank Stevens, then BMW Motorrad USA’s National Sales Manager, explained, “We started dipping our toes back into the police business with the K 75. We did some test sales, but the K 75 was not an ideal police motorcycle because of its riding position, its saddlebag design and storage. It was expensive if you dropped it or fell over, because the protection system wasn’t very good.”
Why the CHP took a chance on BMW
In 1994, the CHP decided to test 20 BMW K 75 RT-Ps against its aging Kawasaki KZ1000P fleet. Although there wasn’t enough statistical data to mandate ABS, its safety potential was undeniable. BMW used the feedback to refine the next-generation R 1100 RT-P, addressing CHP needs with features like:
- Dual battery system with advanced charging
- Oil cooling fan for extended idling
- Improved protection bars
- Adjustable windscreen and ABS
- Exceptional maneuverability, including U-turns within 16 feet
The R 1100 RT-P offered clear performance benefits, but at over double the cost of the Kawasaki, price posed a hurdle. BMW’s solution? A buy-back program.
How creativity closed the deal
“We didn’t want the liability of a lease, so we sold the motorcycles with a buy-back clause,” Stevens said. “California agreed to pay much more up front because their total cost would be less, if the motorcycle survived to the end of the term.”
BMW repurchased each bike for $9,928, reducing the effective cost to $5,900—less than a Kawasaki once state auction values were factored in. The contract marked a first for the CHP and paved the way for wider adoption.
Tackling roadblocks—literally
Before full rollout, a last-minute wobble test threatened the deal. A CHP sergeant noticed instability over a drainage rut. Stevens investigated and collaborated with Germany’s Fritz Leitner to make adjustments, including changing to cast wheels and stiffer Dunlop tires. “It passed the test, and they loved it,” Stevens recalled, even though bent wheels later prompted further refinements.
The dealer behind the delivery
A&S BMW Motorcycles in Roseville, California played a key role in assembling and delivering the bikes. “We built all of the original bikes, like 25 a month,” said Howard Pine. Local BMW dealers later maintained the bikes, creating a consistent service experience for officers.
More than motorcycles—a relationship built on trust
Officers quickly embraced the BMW experience, leading many to purchase civilian models for personal use. “They discovered how well BMW dealers take care of their customers, which created a bond of loyalty that certainly didn’t exist with Kawasaki,” said Stevens.
Further refinements followed, from new sirens and lighting systems to rifle holsters and fuel-saving engine tuning. Even when the CHP temporarily shifted to Harley-Davidsons under Governor Schwarzenegger, BMWs continued to find favor.
BMW’s continuing legacy in law enforcement
Today, more than 3,500 BMW R 1250 RT-P motorcycles are on the road in the U.S., serving over 500 police forces. From Los Angeles to Honolulu, officers rely on these bikes for their durability, safety, and efficiency—proof that thoughtful design and long-term value can win over even the toughest crowd.
Learn more at www.bmwmotorcycles.com