TRUCKEE, Calif. (AP) — The Truckee Police Department has purchased its first electric motorcycle, a new tool officers say will help them keep people safe and catch bad guys in the rugged back country around Lake Tahoe with less noise and pollution.
Truckee Police Capt. Rob Leftwich says the "Zero Motorcycle" will be used instead of bicycles in some situations when officers need to get around more quickly, but won't mean an end to bicycle patrols.
Leftwich says the vehicles produce little noise and no emissions, so they don't disturb the natural surroundings.
The motorcycles are equipped with emergency lighting and sirens and as well as storage for gear and emergency medical equipment.
Police say the motorcycle will be used daily on Truckee's streets, trails and off-road areas when the weather is appropriate.