The History of the Michigan State Police Motorcycle Unit
Michigan State Police utilized motorcycles until late 1941 and then switched over to automobiles. MSP began utilizing motorcycles again for day to day patrol operations in 1993. At this time, the motorcycle unit was limited to the Detroit area freeway posts. Currently, we have a fleet of 21 motorcycles (Harley-Davidson FLHTP) at six different posts. MSP has found the motorcycles to be an extremely useful tool in maneuvering through congested traffic to get to a crash scene, traffic enforcement, escorts, motorcades and public relations. Michigan State Police also began testing motorcycles during the annual Police Vehicle Evaluation starting with 2007 model year. This year (Model Year 2009) MSP tested five motorcycles: Harley-Davidson FLHP, FLHTP, Buell Ulysses XB12XP, BMW R1200RTP and BMW G650 X-P. Each motorcycle is tested in Acceleration and Top Speed, Braking, Motorcycle Dynamics, High and Low Um Transition Anti-Lock Brake System Test and Communications. Motorcycle test results can be found at www.michigan.gov/msp

1919 Motor Squad

1920's Ceria

1926

1920's


1921 -1935

1924

1924

1924

1926

1928 Publicity Photo featuring the new first aid kit

1929 Jonesville Post

1929

1930's

Harley-Davidson V-series 1930's

1937

1937 Trooper Clarance Bonter and Trooper LyleJackson

1938

1939

1940's

Bay City 1940

1940's East Lansing Headquaters Garage

1942 Capain Glen Dafoe

1990's





2009

2012

2012

2013

2013

2013

2013

2015 New Motor Officers

2016
2016