Cycling in a group around Los Angeles offers social benefits and fitness rewards—but riding safely when cycling together requires extra care, especially given LA’s road conditions.
When gearing up for a group ride, riders need to be alert, prepared and aware of specific local hazards, including ongoing construction along Wilshire Boulevard due to the Metro D Line extension.
The obvious
If you are eager to cycle with friends, always follow California traffic laws as a group: obey speed limits, traffic signals, stop signs and ride in the correct lane. Group riding etiquette is key—maintain a steady pace, signal early and call out hazards. Be predictable and maintain consistent spacing to give each rider time to react.
Los Angeles streets are notorious for potholes, ruptured pavement and street debris. Potholes can cause sudden swerves or loss of control and saddle the rider with serious injuries. A sudden drop-off or loose gravel can send riders off-balance or into traffic. Although it sounds silly to say it out loud, it’s important to “watch where you’re riding.”
The not-so-obvious, yet still important
Construction sites can compound the dangers that group cyclists face in L.A.—particularly along Wilshire Boulevard, where major work is underway for the Metro D Line (formerly Purple Line) extension. Sections of Wilshire near La Cienega, Beverly Drive, Fairfax and La Brea are actively undergoing subway tunneling. These areas are actively experiencing lane closures, uneven pavement, construction debris and ongoing heavy machinery activity.
When riding along Wilshire, watch for barriers, detours and inconsistent pavement near excavation zones. Construction debris—like gravel or discarded materials—can cause flats or skidding. Obey temporary traffic signage, ride cautiously and slow down in work zones—even if you’re familiar with the route.
Additionally, night rides, let alone rides in construction-heavy areas, require added visibility. Front and rear lights can help drivers see you; reflectors or reflective gear make your presence even more noticeable. Alert your group to any ongoing construction closures or new pothole reports before the ride begins.
Cycling on Los Angeles streets can be exhilarating—but also risky. When you follow traffic laws, use protective gear, ride responsibly with your group, and remain alert to city-specific dangers like the Wilshire Boulevard trenching for the Metro D Line, your ride can stay focused on the joy of cycling—rather than hospital visits or legal headaches that require knowledgeable legal guidance.
