Los Angeles might be famous for its car culture, but its bike lanes are steadily transforming the way people move through the city. With an increasing number of dedicated cycling paths, bike-friendly streets, and ambitious citywide initiatives, LA is becoming more accommodating to cyclists—whether for commuting, exercise, or leisure.

Expanding Bike Infrastructure

The Los Angeles Department of Transportation (LADOT) has been working to enhance the city's bike network, adding miles of protected and buffered lanes in recent years. Major thoroughfares such as Figueroa Street, Venice Boulevard, and Spring Street now feature protected lanes, offering a safer riding experience. According to the Mobility Plan 2035, LA aims to establish a comprehensive network of over 1,000 miles of bikeways.

Key Bike Lanes in LA

  • Figueroa Street ("MyFig") – A flagship project in downtown LA, the MyFig corridor provides cyclists with dedicated bike signals and curb-separated lanes, making it one of the safest urban cycling routes in the city.
  • Venice Boulevard – This westbound corridor features a mix of buffered and protected bike lanes, offering a direct route from downtown to the beach.
  • Los Angeles River Path – A scenic, off-street trail running along the LA River, ideal for cyclists looking to avoid car traffic altogether.
  • Sunset Boulevard & Santa Monica Boulevard – Though still mixed with traffic in some areas, these iconic streets are gradually becoming more bike-friendly with designated lanes and signage.

Challenges and Future Improvements

While LA’s bike network has grown, gaps in connectivity remain a challenge. Many neighborhoods still lack proper bike lanes, and some existing lanes suffer from poor maintenance or inadequate protection from traffic. However, the city’s Active Transportation Program and initiatives like Vision Zero aim to address these shortcomings by improving infrastructure, reducing traffic-related fatalities, and expanding safe cycling options.

Biking in LA: What to Know

For those navigating the city on two wheels, here are a few tips:

  • Use the Metro Bike Share – Available in Downtown LA, Venice, and Hollywood, the system makes it easy to rent a bike for short trips.
  • Follow Traffic Laws – Cyclists are required to obey traffic signals, ride in the same direction as traffic, and use lights at night.
  • Plan Your Route – Apps like Ride with GPS and Google Maps (Bike Mode) can help identify the safest routes.

Los Angeles may not yet rival cities like Amsterdam or Portland when it comes to cycling, but with ongoing investments in bike-friendly infrastructure, it's moving in the right direction. Whether you're commuting or just exploring, the growing network of bike lanes is making it easier than ever to experience LA on two wheels.