Goleta’s Community Resource Deputy (CRD) Ehren Rauch has a brand-new motor-assisted bicycle, or e-bike. The City purchased the e-bike for CRD Rauch to help enhance his patrol efforts in the City of Goleta.

CRD Rauch came up with the idea to purchase an e-bike, “We had a standard manual powered bike, but it was very outdated and in need of repair.” The new e-bike 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 easily access.”

CRD Rauch said, “I am very excited to be out in the community on an e-bike. This allows me to provide outreach and enforcement in places that are typically not patrolled by a deputy in a car.” 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 or parades.

The e-bike, costing approximately $4,000, is more nimble than your typical police cruiser and requires less man-power than a regular pedal-powered bike. It came equipped with several accessories and features including: center drive motor, installed red-and-blue lights, siren package, storage bag with police markings on the side, 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 e-bike and look forward to having many more,” said CRD Rauch.