Michigan State Police

The History of the Michigan State Police Department 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 Cpl. John Cleghorn
1920’s
1920’s
1920’s
1924
1929 Publicity Photo featuring new first aid kit
1929 Jonesville Post
1930’s
1937 (L) Trooper Clarence Bonter (R) Trooper Lyle Jackson
Trooper Clarence Bonter
1930’s
Harley-Davidson V-series 1930’s
1938
1942 Capt. Glen Dafoe
1940’s Lansing Headquarters Garage
1940’s Bay City
1990’s
1990’s
2009
2012
2015
2016

Information and Photos provided by the Michigan State Police.