The typical vehicles of these units and their formations are responsible for the naming of these troops: "Kradschützen" - Infantry Men on Motorcycles. The motorcycles characterized these units and they were often called "Cavalry of the New Age".

In 1929 a motorcycle infantry company was formed for the first time within the 'Kraftfahrabteilung 6 (Münster i. W.)'. This action was part of restructuring the motorized troops to motorized combat troops. From 1934/35 a number of motorcycle infantry units were formed, mainly by restructuring the former cavalry regiments.

The mission of these type of units was, to surprise and outflank the enemy far ahead of own forces, using superiority in movement and speed.

Although they only had light equipment and weapon systems, these units were very effective in combat. A characteristic part of this, was their tactic of 'fire and movement'.