There’s a new bike in town.

It’s stealthier than a Harley. Sturdier than a Schwinn. And it’s coming to a street near you in White House.

It’s the first electric bike to propel the White House Police Department’s bike-certified officers as they patrol the community. This Velotric Summit 1 model was obtained through instrumental assistance from Mike Wagahoff, owner of local shop Cyclin’ America.

“If you can have police ride a bike at 28 miles per hour — that’s a no brainer,” says Mike. “It’s such a nimble type of bicycle.”

White House Police Sergeant Eric Enck tested it out on the football stadium steps and a precision bike course to determine its functionality. It passed the test. Mike worked up a good price with his Velotric dealer just in time for the purchase to be approved by the city.

“The bike is all about community relations,” says Sergeant Enck, “making contact with the public, making sure we are more approachable.”

There’s no metal car door separating these officers from the public they protect and serve. The bike is also easier to maneuver through crowds, such as the Americana Festival and Friday night football games, and faster than patrolling on foot.

“Running four blocks in 35 pounds of gear isn’t easy,” Sergeant Enck says. “By the time you get there, you’re going to be winded.”

If a bicycle is better than being on foot, imagine the effectiveness of the electric bike. Sergeant Enck predicts that an officer could patrol his/her entire shift without having to plug in and charge.

“We want people to see us on the greenway, so they know we are there to keep an eye on stuff,” he says. “When I hit these trail heads, I’ll check the vehicle tags and log down the tag of a suspicious vehicle. They can’t see a bike coming as easily as they can see a car.”

This quiet approach enables officers to catch people for conversation. What Sergeant Enck has witnessed is when they have bad motives, this conversation encourages them to move on, keeping our city safer.

It's not simply riding a bike down the greenway; bike certification involves a series of test courses designed to prepare every officer for unique situations.

“They have to be able to maneuver through crowds, come to quick stops, and avoid obstacles all while keeping their bike upright,” Sergeant Enck explains.

Once certified, officers are given the choice to grab their bikes and patrol — as manpower allows. Caleb Railey, a police officer for the WHPD, showed his skills on the bike course and shared a bit of his story.

“When I was a kid, I always wanted to get into law enforcement. It’s a calling for me,” he says. Patrolling on a bike, he adds, enables officers to be more involved in the community and more approachable. “We just want to help you — that’s all we want to do. No matter who you are or what you’re going through, we want the best for you, we promise.”

Sometimes less is more. Two wheels convey that message clearer than four.

Next time you see a man or woman in blue, be sure to say thanks. Or, why not join them for “Cool Off with a Cop” on July 17 at the White House Farmers Market? For more information, visit www.whitehousetn.gov.