The LAPD purchased more than 60 new BMWs to add to the motorcycle patrol unit of the department.

A portion of the Los Angeles moto-cops will soon be cruising around town on something new and shiny; hopefully the first time you see them won't be from your rear view mirror.

The LAPD purchased more than 60 new BMWs to add to their stable of motorcycles and as soon as they are commissioned they will be taking to the streets.

"The city purchased 60 or 70 of the BMW R1200 RT-Ps, and the word is that's all the city can afford for now," Los Angeles police motor Officer Vic Fain said.

The black-and-white police model motorcycles are worth close to $20,000 apiece, though it was unclear what per unit price was for the city.

In 2003, the city purchased 75 bikes from American bike producer, Harley-Davidson, passing over the BMW's bid which was $1500 per bike more expensive and wouldn't allow the LAPD to do in-house warranty work which would save the city time and money.

Some motocops are unwilling to let go of the biker tradition of the Harleys, but others feel the switch to the European made bikes is more practical.

"It's a heavy bike, with not enough power," one motor officer said of his Harley-Davidson this morning. "It's nice for the ride home. But it's not much good for the work we do."

"We've still got a lot of guys who are going to use the Harleys," Fain said.

The new BMWs will be hitting the streets soon, but on Saturday, Jan. 2, they will be on display downtown at the police parking garage. Drop by and take a look-see because next time it could cost you.