LA Bike shops and clubs?

[Syndirelah]

Hey California ladies! I have a friend that recently moved into downtown LA. She would love to get into cycling, has been really into spinning, and is looking for some good bike shops and friendly clubs around... any advice?

Thanks! Jen

[Bluetree]

There are a ton of clubs and teams distributed around the greater Los Angeles area, however there isn't anything in the downtown area unless your friend is into the urban riding/fixie/party/Critical Mass crowd.

It also depends on what kind of person your friend is. Does she prefer riding with women or can she mix it up with the guys? Does she like long distance or social rides? Does she like climbing? Is she the athletic/competitve type?

Also, how far is she willing to drive? There are clubs located north of her (the Pasadena/San Gabriel area) and many on the Westside, ranging from social-to-hardcore racers. There is also a number of different tri clubs if she like to multi-sport.

In SoCal, we are fortunate to have so many options. But it can also be confusing since so many of them fall into particlar niches and are localized in different regions.

[Bluetree]

Hi Jen

I would def. recommend the L.A. Tri Club, the biggest such club in the county. The majority of their membership is on the Westside, but that's great because they have tons of ocean swim clinics at all levels. They also have great parties and social events, so it would be a good way to network and make new friends.

Tell your friend to be on the lookout tomorrow at the L.A. Triathlon. The bike leg goes from the ocean to downtown L.A., where the run leg will commence. It should be great to watch and there will be lots of booths and informative events going on.

:)

P.S. Being in downtown, it is a sad fact that she WILL have to drive to get to half-decent cycling areas. :(