QuestionCan you please specify the reason Kawasaki had the California Highway Patrol and other police agencies stop using the motorcycle? It is my understanding that the above motorcycle had severe stability problems at high speeds causing the bike to vibrate and become unstable. I am currently in the process of restoring the above motorcycle and would appreciate whatever information you could provide.
Thanks in advance for yout time.
AnswerI wasn't aware that this bike had a instability problem. It took some time, but the best information I could find regarding the relationship betweeen Kawasaki and CHP did not seem to involve these problems.
If, in fact, it does have instablity issues or vibrations, those things can be worked out with good success.
Otherwise, here's a news clip that I found, which seems to clear things up a little.
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BMW of North America announced Tuesday the California Department of General Services has agreed to buy 150 police motorcycles for use by the Highway Patrol. BMW was selected over Harley-Davidson and Kawasaki in the bidding process, which takes place annually.
The announcement of the agreement with the California Highway Patrol comes on the heels of a recent purchase of twelve BMW police motorcycles by the Oregon State Police. "Law enforcement agencies around the country are beginning to take a closer look at BMW motorcycles because they offer features and benefits, such as antilock braking systems, not found on other motorcycles sold for official use," said Jeff Byers, National Marketing Manager for BMW. "The decision by the California Department of General Services is significant because, as the nation's largest buyer of police motorcycles, it sets the standard for other law enforcement agencies to follow," added Byers.
BMW's R1100RT-P police model is based on the standard R1100RT touring bike, but comes equipped with features that tailor it for official use, such as auxiliary cooling fans, essential for a police engine that must be kept idling or running at low speeds for long periods, a fire extinguisher with holder; and a larger 700W alternator to keep the battery charged during long duties with emergency equipment activated. According to BMW, delivery of the police models to the CHP will begin this month.
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I hope this helps.
