Can you replace your car with a bicycle in Los Angeles?

Question

So, I know that everyone says that you can't get by without a car in LA. I might be moving out there for work (likely in Burbank); I am also a hippie type who doesn't want to need a car. Right now I am looking at getting a folding electric bicycle (google the Riviera or the eZee Quadro if you're interested in what I mean) to replace my car, but I am living on the East Coast, and it would work out for my situation.

In LA, though - can you get around easily enough on a bicycle? Is it possible to get around Burbank (or other parts of LA) without going on big highways that would be terrifying to ride on a bicycle? How about a motorcycle, would that make more sense? If I end up living outside Burbank, would it be impossible to commute by bike? Are there some parts of LA that are more bike-friendly than others?

Thanks.

Answer 1

I have lived near LA all my life.  I use to live in North Hollywood, and i have a friend who lives in Burbank.  To answer your question yes it is possible.  I'm to lazy to view that thing, but i would suggest getting a bike that does at least 40mph.  Be careful though because people drive like idiots so you will need a helmet.  Actually you will also need a helmet because its the law.  It may be a pain in the *** but since your the hippie type you say, you may like it.  I say go for it.  OR just get a very economical electric car.  Some of them only cost 7-10k but they dont go very fast or too far maybe like a 100mile range but its still pretty good for small commutes.

Answer 2

It can be done, but it will be difficult.  Public transportation in LA is mediocre at best.  There are bike trails in some places and bike lanes on most roads, so if you live close enough to where you work you could definitely bike to work.  If you don't mind restricting yourself to a small radius from your home then you can get by, but I'm guessing you'll get a car eventually.

Answer 3

Short answer:

Burbank/Los Angeles is NOT bicycle friendly.  Not by any stretch of the imagination.

Los Angeles LOVES! it's cars!

I lived in the Los Angeles area and had to take 3 Freeways to get to a grocery store!

It would depend on your commute, of course.  I was able to take a bicycle to a community college.  I was young and LA traffic seemed like an adventure, not a white knuckle, extreme biking experience.  LOL!

Unless you score an apartment near your work (and Burbank is prime real estate, hard to get, and expensive), get a car, you'll need it.

Motorcycles are always a risk.  I, personally, wouldn't tempt the freeway gods on one, but it's an option if you're brave.  Drivers are absolutely suicidal and in desperate need of anger management classes.  Remember, LA is the freeway shooting capital of the world...

Answer 4

yes you can  get round LA on a bike if you combine with the bus system (its nice since the buses now have bike racks )

then from Burbank you also have metrolink (which also allows bikes on their trains)

a good Thomas guide can show you alternate streets

other then major highways

plus if you got a folding bike you even take that ON the bus

I have  live in LA since I was 16 and I'm 52 now

and my transportation is my bicycle, and buses and my feet

I dont drive at all

so yes its possible regards what other say

they dont call me mobilemark for nothing!