How to Start Cycling in Long Beach

Cycling in Long Beach is more than just a mode of transportation—it’s a lifestyle choice that connects you to the city’s vibrant coastal culture, scenic waterfronts, and thriving urban community. With over 100 miles of dedicated bike lanes, protected paths, and scenic trails, Long Beach has emerged as one of California’s most bike-friendly cities. Whether you’re looking to commute to work, explore nature, improve your fitness, or simply enjoy the sunshine, starting your cycling journey here offers unparalleled opportunities.

This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step roadmap for beginners to confidently begin cycling in Long Beach. From selecting the right equipment and understanding local laws to discovering the best routes and connecting with the cycling community, this tutorial equips you with everything you need to ride safely, legally, and joyfully. By the end, you’ll not only know how to start cycling—you’ll understand why Long Beach is one of the best places in Southern California to do it.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Assess Your Goals and Needs

Before purchasing a bike or hitting the pavement, take a moment to reflect on why you want to cycle in Long Beach. Are you commuting to downtown offices? Riding for exercise? Exploring the coastline? Each goal influences the type of bike, gear, and routes you’ll need.

If your primary goal is commuting, prioritize a lightweight hybrid or city bike with fenders and a rack for carrying bags. For fitness and endurance, a road bike or gravel bike may suit you better. Families or casual riders may prefer a comfort bike with upright seating and wide tires for stability. If you plan to ride along the Strand or through bluffs, consider a bike with wider tires and reliable brakes for uneven terrain.

Write down your top three objectives. This clarity will prevent impulse buys and ensure your equipment matches your actual use.

Step 2: Choose the Right Bicycle

Long Beach offers a variety of bike shops where you can test ride models before purchasing. Popular local retailers include Long Beach Bike Shop, Cycle Logic, and The Bike Room. Don’t hesitate to ask for a professional fitting—proper saddle height and handlebar reach are critical for comfort and injury prevention.

For beginners, consider these three categories:

• Hybrid Bikes: Best for mixed use—pavement, bike paths, and light gravel. They offer comfort, upright posture, and versatility.
• City/Commuter Bikes: Designed for urban environments with features like chain guards, built-in lights, and locks. Ideal for daily rides to work or school.
• Electric Bikes (E-bikes): Great for longer commutes or hilly areas like the bluffs near Shoreline Drive. They provide pedal assist, reducing fatigue without eliminating exercise.

Average price range for a quality beginner bike: $500–$1,200. Avoid cheap department store bikes—they’re often poorly assembled, heavy, and unsafe for regular use.

Step 3: Invest in Essential Safety Gear

California law requires all cyclists under 18 to wear a helmet. While adults are not legally required to, it’s strongly recommended—and for good reason. Head injuries are the leading cause of cycling fatalities. Choose a CPSC-certified helmet that fits snugly and sits level on your head.

Other essential gear includes:

• Front and rear lights: Required by law after dark. Use white front lights and red rear lights with steady or flashing modes.
• Reflective clothing or accessories: Even during daylight, visibility saves lives. Consider a reflective vest, ankle bands, or spoke reflectors.
• Lock: A U-lock or heavy-duty chain lock is essential. Avoid cable locks—they’re easily cut.
• Bell or horn: Required by city ordinance on all bikes. Use it to alert pedestrians on shared paths.
• Eye protection: Sunglasses or clear lenses protect against wind, dust, and insects.
• Repair kit: Include a spare tube, tire levers, mini pump, and multi-tool. Flat tires happen—even on paved roads.

Many local shops offer starter safety bundles. Ask for one when purchasing your bike.

Step 4: Learn Long Beach Bike Laws and Etiquette

Long Beach operates under California Vehicle Code (CVC), with additional local ordinances. Knowing these prevents fines and keeps you safe.

• Ride with traffic: Always ride in the same direction as vehicles. Never ride against traffic.
• Use bike lanes: When available, you must use them unless turning, avoiding hazards, or passing.
• Stop at red lights and stop signs: Cyclists have the same obligations as motorists.
• Yield to pedestrians: On shared paths like The Strand or Rainbow Lagoon, pedestrians have right-of-way.
• No riding on sidewalks: Prohibited in downtown Long Beach and most commercial zones. Check local signage.
• Hand signals: Use them to indicate turns and stops. Left arm extended = left turn. Left arm bent upward = right turn. Left arm bent downward = stop.

Take 15 minutes to read the Long Beach Bicycle Master Plan online. It outlines designated bike corridors, shared lane markings, and upcoming infrastructure projects.

Step 5: Start with Beginner-Friendly Routes

Long Beach has over 120 miles of bike infrastructure. Begin with low-traffic, scenic, and well-marked paths:

• The Strand: A 5-mile paved path running from the Queen Mary to Belmont Shore. Flat, wide, and popular with walkers and joggers. Ideal for your first ride. Watch for pedestrians and keep your speed under 10 mph.
• Los Cerritos Channel Bike Path: A 4-mile protected path from the Long Beach Convention Center to the San Gabriel River. Minimal vehicle crossings and excellent signage.
• Alamitos Bay Trail: A 2.5-mile loop around the bay with views of yachts and birdlife. Gentle grades and plenty of benches for rest.
• 6th Street Bike Lane: A protected lane connecting downtown to the University of Southern California’s Long Beach campus. Good for commuters.

Use the Long Beach Bike Map (available at city libraries or online) to plan your route. Start with 3–5 miles. Ride during daylight hours, and avoid rush hour (7–9 a.m. and 4–6 p.m.) until you’re confident navigating traffic.

Step 6: Practice Basic Bike Handling Skills

Before riding on busy streets, practice in a quiet area like a parking lot or empty schoolyard. Master these skills:

• Starting and stopping smoothly
• Looking over your shoulder without swerving
• One-handed riding (to signal turns)
• Navigating around obstacles like potholes or drain grates
• Braking evenly—use both front and rear brakes, but avoid slamming the front

Practice emergency stops. If you’re going 15 mph and a car door opens suddenly, can you stop in 10 feet? This skill could prevent a serious accident.

Step 7: Plan Your First Commute or Ride

Once comfortable, plan your first real ride. Use Google Maps or the Strava app to map a route from your home to a destination like the Long Beach Public Library, the Pike Outlets, or a café in Belmont Shore.

Test your route on a weekend. Note:

• Where are the bike lanes broken or missing?
• Are there steep hills? Can you shift gears effectively?
• Are there water fountains or restrooms along the way?
• Is there secure bike parking at your destination?

Bring water, a snack, and your phone. Let someone know your route and expected return time. Treat your first ride like a mini adventure—not a chore.

Step 8: Join a Local Cycling Group or Event

Long Beach has a welcoming cycling community. Joining a group reduces intimidation and builds confidence.

• Long Beach Bike Club: Hosts weekly group rides for all levels. Sunday mornings start at 8 a.m. at the Long Beach Civic Center.
• Women Who Ride Long Beach: A supportive group focused on female and non-binary riders. Offers skill clinics and social rides.
• Bike to Work Day: Held every May. Free coffee, snacks, and mechanic help at designated stations around the city.
• Long Beach Cycling Coalition: Advocates for better infrastructure and hosts monthly educational forums.

Attend one event. You’ll meet people who’ve been where you are—and they’ll cheer you on.

Step 9: Maintain Your Bike Regularly

A well-maintained bike is safer, more efficient, and lasts longer. Set a monthly checklist:

• Check tire pressure (recommended PSI is printed on the tire sidewall)
• Test brakes—squeeze levers; they should engage before reaching the handlebar
• Lubricate the chain every 100 miles or after riding in rain
• Inspect spokes for looseness or damage
• Ensure lights and reflectors are clean and working

Many local shops offer free tune-ups with bike purchases. Ask about maintenance packages. Some even offer “Bike Care 101” workshops for beginners.

Step 10: Build Confidence and Expand Your Horizons

After a few weeks, challenge yourself:

• Ride the entire length of The Strand (10 miles round trip)
• Try a weekend ride to the Alamitos Bay Marina
• Explore the bike path to the Los Angeles River Bike Path (via the San Gabriel River Trail)
• Take a night ride with proper lighting and reflective gear

Track your progress with a free app like Strava or MapMyRide. Celebrate milestones—your first 10-mile ride, your first week without a flat tire, your first group ride. These moments build lasting habits.

Best Practices

Be Predictable

Cyclists who ride erratically create danger for themselves and others. Ride in a straight line. Don’t weave between parked cars or swerve suddenly. Signal your intentions clearly and early. Motorists appreciate predictability.

Always Assume You’re Invisible

Even if you’re wearing bright gear, drivers may not see you. Never assume a driver sees you before they turn. Make eye contact at intersections. If you can’t see the driver’s face, assume they’re not looking.

Stay Alert, Not Just on Your Bike

Put your phone away. Avoid headphones. Listen for car horns, sirens, and approaching bikes. Be especially cautious near schools, bus stops, and construction zones. Long Beach has active roadwork—check the city’s Public Works website for updates.

Hydrate and Fuel

Even short rides can lead to dehydration, especially in coastal heat. Carry at least 16 oz of water for rides under 10 miles. For longer rides, bring electrolyte tablets or a banana. Many cafes along The Strand offer cyclist discounts.

Dress for Comfort and Function

You don’t need spandex to ride. Wear moisture-wicking clothing, closed-toe shoes, and avoid loose pants that can get caught in the chain. In cooler months, layer with a windbreaker. Avoid heavy backpacks—use a rear rack or pannier for balance.

Plan for Weather

Long Beach enjoys over 280 sunny days per year, but coastal fog and afternoon winds are common. Carry a light rain jacket. After rain, bike lanes can be slick with oil residue. Wait 30 minutes after rain to ride for better traction.

Respect Shared Spaces

On The Strand and other multi-use paths, slow down when passing. Announce yourself politely: “On your left!” Never speed past pedestrians or dog walkers. Give them space. A little courtesy goes a long way in building community goodwill.

Secure Your Bike Properly

Lock both the frame and rear wheel to a fixed object. Avoid parking near dumpsters, alleyways, or poorly lit areas. Use two locks if possible—a U-lock and a cable. Register your bike with the Long Beach Police Department’s Bike Registry (free online). It increases recovery chances if stolen.

Know Your Limits

Don’t push yourself too hard too soon. Cycling is a low-impact sport, but overuse injuries like knee pain or lower back strain can occur. Start with short rides. Stretch before and after. Listen to your body. Rest when needed.

Learn to Read the Road

Watch for hazards: sewer grates (ride perpendicular to them), painted lines (slippery when wet), sand near the beach, and car doors opening. Scan 10–15 feet ahead. Anticipate—not react.

Tools and Resources

Apps for Cyclists in Long Beach

• Strava: Tracks rides, sets goals, and connects you with local riders. Join the “Long Beach Cyclists” segment to see popular routes.
• Google Maps: Switch to “Bicycling” mode to find bike lanes, trails, and elevation profiles.
• MapMyRide: Offers route planning, calorie tracking, and integration with Garmin and Apple Watch.
• Nextbike: Long Beach’s official bike-share system. Rent a bike from stations downtown, at the beach, or near transit hubs. $3 for 30 minutes.
• City of Long Beach Bike Map App: Interactive digital map showing all bike lanes, trails, parking racks, and repair stations.

Local Bike Shops and Services

• Long Beach Bike Shop (501 E. 7th St.): Offers rentals, repairs, and beginner classes. Free safety checkups every Friday.
• Cycle Logic (1101 E. 7th St.): Carries high-quality commuter and e-bikes. Hosts monthly “Fix-It Fridays” for DIY repairs.
• The Bike Room (3801 E. 2nd St.): Specializes in women’s and adaptive bikes. Offers youth programs and family rides.
• Long Beach Public Library: Free access to printed and digital bike maps, safety brochures, and community event calendars.

Free Educational Resources

• Long Beach Bicycle Master Plan (2021): Available at longbeach.gov/bikeplan. Includes maps, goals, and implementation timelines.
• California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) Bike Safety Guide: Downloadable PDF with state laws and best practices.
• League of American Bicyclists: Offers free online courses like “Bicycle Safety 101” and “Urban Cycling Fundamentals.”
• YouTube Channels: “Sheldon Brown” (classic repair tips), “Cyclelicious” (urban riding techniques), and “Long Beach Bike Life” (local vlogs).

Public Infrastructure and Amenities

Long Beach invests heavily in cyclist-friendly infrastructure:

• Over 1,200 bike parking racks citywide
• 10+ bike repair stations with air pumps and tools (located at parks and transit centers)
• Protected bike lanes on 20+ major corridors
• “Share the Road” signage on high-traffic streets
• Bike-friendly public transit: All buses have front-mounted bike racks

Check the city’s Bike Parking Map to find secure racks near your destination. Many businesses—cafés, libraries, and museums—offer free bike parking for customers.

Community Events and Advocacy

• Bike to Work Day (May): Free coffee, snacks, and mechanic help at 15+ stations.
• Long Beach Bike Month (May): Weekly events including group rides, film screenings, and safety workshops.
• Open Streets LB (Monthly): Streets closed to cars for walking, biking, and community activities.
• Long Beach Cycling Coalition: Monthly meetings open to the public. Learn how to advocate for better bike lanes and safer intersections.

Real Examples

Example 1: Maria, 32, Nurse, Commutes from Lakewood

Maria used to drive 18 miles each way to work at Long Beach Memorial Hospital. After a traffic jam left her late three days in a row, she decided to try cycling. She bought a hybrid bike and started riding the Los Cerritos Channel Bike Path. It took her 45 minutes—faster than driving during rush hour. She now rides four days a week. “I used to feel stressed before work. Now I feel energized. I’ve lost 15 pounds and saved $300 a month on gas.” She joined the Long Beach Bike Club and now leads a monthly “Nurse Riders” group.

Example 2: Jamal, 19, College Student, First-Time Rider

Jamal moved to Long Beach for college and didn’t own a car. He rented a Nextbike for a week, then bought a used city bike for $250 from Cycle Logic. He practiced on The Strand every weekend. “I was scared of cars at first. Then I realized everyone here is used to seeing bikes. People wave. I’ve made friends.” He now rides to class, the library, and the beach. He volunteers with the Cycling Coalition to help install new bike racks on campus.

Example 3: Linda and Tom, 60s, Retirees Exploring the Coast

Linda and Tom bought e-bikes after Tom developed knee pain. “We didn’t want to give up the beach,” Linda says. With pedal assist, they now ride 15 miles along the coast every Tuesday. They carry snacks and stop at cafés. “It’s our date day. We see dolphins, sea lions, and sunsets we never noticed when we were driving.” They’ve started a blog, “Coastal Cruisers LB,” documenting their rides.

Example 4: The High School Cycling Team

Long Beach Polytechnic High School launched a cycling club in 2022. Students ride to school on bike paths, participate in weekend races, and clean up litter along The Strand. “We’re not just athletes—we’re community stewards,” says team captain Diego. The club has partnered with the city to install 12 new bike racks near schools.

FAQs

Is it safe to cycle in Long Beach?

Yes, if you follow the rules and stay visible. Long Beach has invested heavily in bike infrastructure, and driver awareness is growing. The most common risks are distracted drivers and poor road conditions. Wearing a helmet, using lights, and riding predictably dramatically reduce danger.

Do I need a license to ride a bike in Long Beach?

No. California does not require a license to ride a bicycle. However, you must follow all traffic laws, just like drivers.

Can I ride on the beach or boardwalk?

No. Riding is prohibited on the sand and the Long Beach boardwalk. Use The Strand or adjacent bike paths instead. Violations can result in fines.

Are e-bikes allowed on bike paths?

Yes. Class 1 and Class 2 e-bikes (with pedal assist up to 20 mph) are permitted on all bike paths and lanes in Long Beach. Class 3 e-bikes (up to 28 mph) are allowed on roads but not on multi-use paths unless posted otherwise.

What should I do if I get a flat tire?

Carry a repair kit. Learn to change a tube beforehand. If you’re stranded, call a friend, walk to a nearby shop, or use a bike-share station. Most repair stations have air pumps and tools. The city also offers free emergency bike repair assistance during Bike Month.

Where can I park my bike safely?

Use designated bike racks, especially those near transit hubs, libraries, and city buildings. Avoid tying your bike to trees, signs, or fences. Register your bike with the Long Beach Police Department to increase recovery chances if stolen.

Is cycling in Long Beach expensive?

Not compared to owning a car. A good beginner bike costs $500–$800. Helmets, locks, and lights add $100–$150. Maintenance costs about $50–$100 per year. Compare that to car payments, insurance, gas, and parking—cycling saves hundreds monthly.

Can I bring my bike on public transit?

Yes. All Long Beach Transit buses have front-mounted bike racks. You can also bring bikes on Metro Rail and Amtrak (with restrictions). Check schedules for bike policies.

What’s the best time of year to start cycling?

Anytime! Long Beach has mild weather year-round. Spring and fall offer the most comfortable temperatures. Summer can be hot, but ocean breezes help. Winter is mild—perfect for riding without layers.

How do I know if a bike path is safe for beginners?

Look for separation from traffic—protected lanes, painted buffers, or physical barriers. Avoid roads with high speed limits (over 35 mph) and heavy truck traffic. Stick to designated bike paths like The Strand, Los Cerritos Channel, or Alamitos Bay Trail until you’re confident.

Conclusion

Starting to cycle in Long Beach isn’t just about getting from point A to point B—it’s about reclaiming your time, health, and connection to the city. Whether you’re commuting, exercising, or exploring, every pedal stroke brings you closer to the rhythm of coastal life. The city has laid the groundwork with miles of safe paths, supportive communities, and thoughtful infrastructure. All you need to do is begin.

Remember: you don’t need to be an athlete, you don’t need the fanciest gear, and you don’t need to ride 20 miles on day one. Start small. Ride your block. Then your neighborhood. Then The Strand. Celebrate every milestone. Learn from every mistake. Connect with others. The most powerful part of cycling isn’t the distance—it’s the freedom.

Long Beach welcomes cyclists. It’s time you welcomed yourself onto two wheels.