Solicitor General Frank Oberle introduces two of the bike patrol sheriffs at the Alberta legislature on Tuesday. (Government of Alberta)

Sheriffs patrolling the Alberta legislature grounds have a new way of getting around.

Starting Tuesday, some of the sheriffs traded their stetsons for cycling helmits and began riding black mountain bikes.

The solicitor general's office purchased the four bikes to use on the legislature grounds, where they can be found wheeling around the wading pool or down on the south lawn.

Patrolling in a car presents a challenge because part of the job is to talk to people, and being in a vehicle puts up a barrier, said sheriff Jason Lefebvre.

"With a bike, that eliminates the barrier, but at the same time you have the response time and the quick capabilities of a vehicle, as well you have good public interaction," Lefebvre said. "Cycling, it's ecologically friendly. You have a good image."

The bikes were the sheriffs' idea, Solicitor General Frank Oberle said.

So far, his department has spent $3,000 on the program, he added.