The Community Relations Deputy (CRD)  Ehren Rauch has a new tool! The Goleta Police Department is joining the e-bike movement with the addition of a brand-new motor-assisted bicycles, or eBike, purchased by the City of Goleta.

CRD Ehren Rauch came up with the idea to purchase an eBike, “We had a standard manual powered bike, but it was very outdated and in need of repair.” The new eBike was chosen for its large tires and ability to go off-road on trails and the beach, locations that a cruiser normally would be unable to.

“I am very excited to be out in the community on an eBike. This allows the CRD to provide outreach and enforcement in places that are typically not patrolled by a Deputy in a car” said CRD Rauch. The new e-bike will assist with patrols on the Ellwood Bluffs, Lake Los Carneros, railroad tracks, city parks, Old Town, and large events such as the Lemon Festival and other parades.

The eBike, costing approximately $4,000, is more nimble than your typical police cruiser and require less man-power than a regular pedal-powered bike. It came equipped with a several accessories and features including: center drive motor, installed red-and-blue lights, siren package, storage bag with police markings on the side, has a range of 50 miles, and can travel at speeds up to almost 30 miles per hour.

“I have already had several positive interactions with the public on the bike and look forward to having many more” said CRD Rauch, “Our plan is to eventually purchase more eBikes to provide better service to our community.”