What, in fact, is the point of motorcycle escorts. Yes, I know they are largely ceremonial, but most ceremonial things have their roots in a practical aspect, but I can’t think of one for motorcycle escorts.
I thought possibly it ws a throw back to a cavalry escourt with mounted troops for protection but the protection part doesn’t wash.
TV
I’ve been in a motorcade with motorcycle escorts. (Don’t ask.)
The motorcycles are great at rushing ahead of the motorcade to the next stoplight in order to stopping all cross-traffic. As one motorcycle has traffic stopped, the next rushes ahead, stops traffic at the next intersection, and the first bike, once the motorcade is clear of the previous intersection, rushes on to the third intersection, etc.
As far as when one sees four motorcycles in formation at the head of a motorcade, I suppose its partiall pomp and circumstance; but also if something were to happen, motorcycles are great at chasing down fleeing people/cars. They are very maneuverable, and can accelerate much faster than any police car.
I agree.
Side note: I seem to recall that a motorcycle cop was badly injured (killed?) during JFK’s 1960 presidential campaign, racing ahead to the next intersection. It can be dangerous work.