Inglewood, Watts, & Compton loop

This loop is rated as moderate. The coastal sections, particularly along the South Bay Bike Path – Manhattan Beach, are generally flat but can be crowded. Inland, the route through Inglewood, Watts, and Compton is mostly flat to gently rolling urban terrain, making it accessible for riders with good fitness. It's a diverse ride, suitable for those looking for more than just a casual spin.

The Inglewood, Watts, & Compton loop is primarily on paved surfaces. You'll ride on dedicated bike paths like the South Bay Bike Path – Manhattan Beach and the Los Angeles River Greenway, as well as city streets. While the coastal path is mostly flat, some cross-streets in Manhattan Beach can be steep. The urban sections are generally flat with minor elevation changes.

This loop offers a unique blend of coastal and urban sights. Along the coast, you'll enjoy classic Southern California beach views, the Redondo Beach Pier, and vibrant beach communities. As you move inland, the route provides a glimpse into the local culture of Inglewood, Watts, and Compton, potentially passing by significant cultural landmarks like the Watts Towers and local parks.

Yes, the route incorporates sections of several well-known paths. You'll ride along the South Bay Bike Path – Manhattan Beach, which is part of the Marvin Braude Bike Trail, and also utilize parts of the Los Angeles River Greenway. Other official trails along this route include the Long Beach Bicycle Route 7, Pacific Coast Bike Route, and the Compton Creek Bike Path.

Given the loop's extensive nature, there are multiple potential starting points and parking options. For the Manhattan Beach section, you can often find paid parking lots near the beach and pier areas. For the inland sections, street parking might be available in various neighborhoods, but always check local signage for restrictions and safety. Consider starting near a public park or a commercial area with accessible parking.

No, you do not need any special permits or pay entrance fees to cycle the Inglewood, Watts, & Compton loop. The route primarily uses public bike paths and city streets, which are freely accessible to cyclists.

The best time to cycle this loop is generally during the spring or fall when the weather is mild and pleasant. Southern California enjoys good cycling weather year-round, but summers can be hot, especially inland, and coastal areas can be crowded. Weekdays are often less busy than weekends, particularly on the beach paths.

As this is primarily a road cycling route utilizing bike paths and city streets, it is generally not suitable for dogs. While some sections of the Marvin Braude Bike Trail allow leashed dogs on adjacent sandy areas, dogs are typically not permitted on the paved bike path itself. City streets are also not ideal for cycling with pets.

While parts of the loop, like the flat and scenic South Bay Bike Path – Manhattan Beach, could be enjoyable for families, the full 76.5 km loop is designed for racebikes and covers significant distances through urban environments. It's rated moderate in difficulty and might be too long and complex for younger children or less experienced family riders. Consider shorter sections if cycling with family.

For this racebike loop, wear appropriate cycling attire, including a helmet, padded shorts, and layers to adapt to temperature changes, especially between coastal and inland areas. Bring plenty of water, snacks, a bike repair kit (spare tube, pump, levers), sunscreen, sunglasses, and a fully charged phone. Given the urban sections, a lock might also be useful if you plan to stop.

Yes, given that the route passes through several vibrant communities, you'll find numerous opportunities for cafes, restaurants, and convenience stores. The Manhattan Beach section, in particular, has many options near the beach. As you ride through Inglewood, Watts, and Compton, you'll also encounter local eateries and shops where you can refuel and hydrate.