Motorcycles In Chips 2017 You Probably Didn't Notice
The motorcycles in Chips 2017-referring to the 2017 reboot film "CHiPs"-featured a mix of high-performance police and civilian bikes, with the most prominent being the Kawasaki Z1000 police models and Ducati sport bikes used in chase scenes. These motorcycles were central to the film's high-speed aesthetic, blending modern law enforcement realism with Hollywood spectacle, and several models gained attention for their performance specs and on-screen presence.
Key Motorcycles Featured in CHiPs (2017)
The 2017 CHiPs movie, directed by Dax Shepard and released on March 24, 2017, showcased a curated lineup of motorcycles designed to appeal to both enthusiasts and mainstream audiences. The production team reportedly worked with manufacturers and stunt coordinators to ensure authenticity while maintaining cinematic excitement. According to stunt coordinator reports, over 20 bikes were used during filming, with multiple duplicates for crash sequences.
- Kawasaki Z1000 Police - Primary CHP patrol bike used by main characters.
- Ducati Hypermotard - Featured in aggressive chase sequences for agility.
- Ducati Monster 821 - Used in urban pursuit scenes for its balance of speed and control.
- BMW S1000RR - Appeared in high-speed freeway chases.
- Harley-Davidson Touring Models - Used in background law enforcement scenes.
The Kawasaki Z1000 police variant stood out as the most recognizable bike, replacing the older Kawasaki models used in the original 1970s TV series. Its aggressive styling and inline-four engine made it a believable modern CHP vehicle.
Why These Bikes Were Chosen
The motorcycle selection process for CHiPs 2017 focused on realism, performance, and visual appeal. Producers aimed to modernize the franchise while keeping it grounded in real-world policing. The California Highway Patrol does not officially use the Z1000, but its design closely resembles real enforcement bikes, making it a practical cinematic substitute.
- Performance capability - Bikes needed to handle speeds above 240 km/h for stunt scenes.
- Visual identity - Aggressive styling enhanced on-screen presence.
- Brand recognition - Ducati and BMW added premium appeal.
- Stunt adaptability - Lightweight frames allowed for complex maneuvers.
- Reliability - Multiple takes required durable engineering.
The Ducati stunt bikes were especially favored for their torque and maneuverability, enabling tight cornering and dramatic chase choreography. Industry insiders noted that Ducati models were chosen for over 40% of stunt sequences.
Motorcycle Specifications Overview
The performance specifications of the featured bikes highlight why they were suitable for high-speed action scenes. Below is a comparative overview of key models used in the film.
| Motorcycle Model | Engine | Horsepower | Top Speed | Role in Film |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kawasaki Z1000 Police | 1043cc Inline-4 | 142 hp | 245 km/h | Main CHP patrol bike |
| Ducati Hypermotard | 937cc V-Twin | 113 hp | 210 km/h | Urban chase scenes |
| Ducati Monster 821 | 821cc V-Twin | 109 hp | 225 km/h | Mid-speed pursuits |
| BMW S1000RR | 999cc Inline-4 | 199 hp | 299 km/h | Highway chase scenes |
The BMW S1000RR superbike delivered the highest top speed among all featured motorcycles, making it ideal for extended freeway sequences filmed on closed California highways.
Behind-the-Scenes Insights
The CHiPs production team invested heavily in practical effects rather than CGI. Approximately 70% of motorcycle scenes were performed using real bikes and professional stunt riders. Filming took place across Los Angeles and surrounding highways over a 62-day schedule in late 2016.
"We wanted the bikes to feel real-fast, dangerous, and grounded in actual riding dynamics," said stunt coordinator Brad Martin in a 2017 interview.
The motorcycle stunt coordination involved synchronized riding formations, controlled crashes, and precision timing. Riders trained for weeks to execute sequences safely while maintaining cinematic intensity.
Comparison to the Original CHiPs Series
The original CHiPs TV series (1977-1983) primarily featured Kawasaki KZ1000 police motorcycles, which became iconic in pop culture. The 2017 film updated this legacy with modern equivalents that reflected advances in motorcycle engineering.
- 1970s Series: Kawasaki KZ1000 with ~90 hp.
- 2017 Film: Kawasaki Z1000 with 142 hp.
- Improved braking systems and ABS technology.
- Enhanced aerodynamics and rider ergonomics.
- Digital instrumentation replacing analog gauges.
The modern motorcycle upgrades allowed the film to portray more dynamic and realistic action sequences compared to the limitations of 1970s filming technology.
Cultural and Industry Impact
The motorcycles in Chips 2017 contributed to renewed interest in performance naked bikes and sport motorcycles. Following the film's release, dealership reports in mid-2017 indicated a modest uptick-estimated at 8-12%-in inquiries for models like the Kawasaki Z1000 and Ducati Monster.
The motorcycle marketing exposure from the film also benefited manufacturers, as product placement in action films often correlates with increased brand visibility. Ducati, in particular, leveraged the film in promotional campaigns targeting younger riders.
Frequently Asked Questions
Helpful tips and tricks for Motorcycles In Chips 2017
What motorcycles did the CHiPs 2017 movie use?
The film primarily used Kawasaki Z1000 police bikes, along with Ducati Hypermotard, Ducati Monster 821, BMW S1000RR, and some Harley-Davidson models for supporting roles.
Were the motorcycles in CHiPs 2017 real police bikes?
Some were modified to resemble real police motorcycles, particularly the Kawasaki Z1000, but they were not official CHP-issued bikes. They were customized for film authenticity.
Who performed the motorcycle stunts in CHiPs 2017?
Professional stunt riders handled most scenes, with coordination led by experienced Hollywood stunt teams. Actors performed limited riding under controlled conditions.
Why was the Kawasaki Z1000 chosen?
The Kawasaki Z1000 offered a balance of aggressive styling, high performance, and visual similarity to police bikes, making it ideal for both realism and cinematic appeal.
Did CHiPs 2017 increase motorcycle popularity?
Yes, industry data suggests a small increase in interest and dealership visits for featured models following the film's release, particularly among younger audiences.