Yes, there have been instances of two-stroke motorcycles being used by law enforcement agencies in the past, including as police motorcycles. However, it's important to note that the use of two-stroke engines in police motorcycles has become increasingly rare over the years due to various factors, including emissions regulations and advancements in four-stroke engine technology.
In the past, two-stroke motorcycles, known for their lightweight design and high power-to-weight ratio, were favored by some law enforcement agencies for their agility and acceleration. One notable example is the Kawasaki KH500, a two-stroke triple motorcycle, which was used by the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) in the 1970s. The KH500 provided the LAPD officers with a fast and nimble motorcycle for patrolling city streets.
Two-stroke engines tend to produce more emissions compared to four-stroke engines, particularly in terms of unburned hydrocarbons and particulate matter. As a result, most modern police motorcycles, like civilian motorcycles, have transitioned to four-stroke engines, which are generally more fuel-efficient and environmentally friendly.
It's worth noting that the specific requirements and preferences of law enforcement agencies can vary, so there might be cases where two-stroke motorcycles are still used in certain jurisdictions or specialized applications. However, the overall trend in the industry has been a shift towards four-stroke engines for police motorcycles due to their improved emissions, fuel efficiency, and technology advancements.