BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KBAK/KBFX) — The Bakersfield Police Department will host its 3rd Annual Motors Skills Competition on Friday, March 13th and Saturday, March 14th, 2026, at the Park at Riverwalk.
Admission is free.
Police said competitors from a variety of law enforcement agencies from throughout the Western United States will gather to compete on a course designed increase rider skill in a competitive environment.
Last year’s Motors Skills Competition drew more than 40 competitors from six different agencies. Competition includes both Harley Davidson and BMW motorcycles.
This year, 29 law enforcement agencies with motors divisions have been invited to compete in Bakersfield’s event.
“The event almost doubled in participation last year, and the number of spectators was large as well,” said BPD Senior Patrol Officer Adam Clayton. “The public interest, support and positive feedback confirmed our desire to continue with this event.”
The Motor Skills competition will begin at 8 a.m. on Saturday and will continue throughout the afternoon until all the competitors are finished, with awards determined at the end of day.
There will be vendors and food trucks at the event on Saturday.
Course set-up will begin Thursday afternoon as hundreds of orange cones will be placed in Bakersfield-themed patterns.
“Friday will be a practice day for the competitors to learn the patterns,” Clayton explained. At around 5 p.m. on Friday, the course will open to the public to anyone who wants to test their bicycle maneuvering skills.
The Bakersfield Police Department will host its 3rd Annual Motors Skills Competition on Friday, March 13th and Saturday, March 14th, 2026, at the Park at Riverwalk. PHOTO: BPD
“Friday evening we will again present a bicycle safety program for kids, then they can take to the coned course as well,” Clayton added.
Participants will need to bring their own bike and helmet to participate. A limited number of free helmets will be available. Children must be accompanied by an adult and wear their helmet to participate.
Funds raised through event entry fees and event sponsorships will support ongoing training for BPD motor officers as well as local charities.
This year’s recipient charities will include Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) Kern County, Honor Flight Kern County, and the Mendiburu Magic Foundation.