In celebration of National Bike Month and in anticipation of Bike Week L.A. (May 16-20) we’ve launched a new survey series entitled ‘Why I Cycle’. This series spotlights local bicyclists who have made the daring leap from car-dependent to car-free or at least car-light in Los Angeles.

Want to share your story? Point your browser to thesource.metro.net/cyclesurvey

The first question on our Why I Cycle survey asked readers, “How often do you ride a bicycle?”

48% of respondents say they ride daily and 41% ride at least a few times a week.

Here are a few responses from these regular riders to the question, “What’s the No. 1 reason you bicycle?” Responses have not been edited for spelling or grammar.

Because I hate driving in LA. One day I just said thats It and SOLD my Car. Been riding for 3 years everyday with combining Metro and Bike. intown i’m faster on my bike than most cars. plus im in great shape and always in a great mood.

-Every day cyclist

Freedom. Freedom to stop as I please, to take in the sights, explore new areas and revisit familiar places. Nobody honks at you when you slow down. Nobody is distracted by cell phones. I ride my bike to be free of the constraint of the vehicle.

– Every day cyclist

Budget cuts have reduced the suburban bus line that passes closest to my house. It doesn’t come early enough, so I bike to catch the earlier train.

– A few times a week cyclist

It’s at just the right pace to experience the world — faster than walking so I don’t get bored, but slower than driving so I can see what’s going on around me.

– Every day cyclist

A few more responses after the jump.

Because, while more hazardous than it should be, it feels like the right thing to do. Healthwise, environmentally- socially-conscious-wise. It’s often hard to find the will to get on the bike in the am, but I’m always glad I did.

– A few times a week cyclist

Maybe Im claustrophobic but I prefer it better than being cooped up inside a car. however, dont get me wrong theres places you cant go on a bike but when it comes to work and school I can make that sacrifice and ride my bike or hop on the metro when Im really in a rush. Plus who doesnt like site seeing and having people wave at you as you pass by your daily route. Its a great experience you become aware of whos always on the same streets. Even though its rare I get to ride next to other people while theyre on their way to work as well.

– Every day cyclist

I hate driving in LA. It is the most stressful activity in the world, and cycling is one of the most calming. 🙂

– A few times a week cyclist

I do it for the fitness aspect, and for the fun of it. It seems so optimistic and 1950s in a way, riding around my neighborhood with my friends. Plus, when you don’t have a car, (or in my case, to young to drive alone), and live away from the Metro Rail, it certainly is a valid form of transportation. And because of my experience biking now, the seeds have been sown, and I am sure that I will continue biking after I drive a car, and after the Expo Line comes to Santa Monica.

– Only on weekends cyclist