Long Beach CA bikie culture

I was in Long Beach CA yesterday, and I thought the bikie culture
there was interesting.

It definitely exists, but it's Japanese-style, as opposed to PNW-
style. In other words, people ride - but mostly on the sidewalk, no
helmet, at relatively slow speeds. I saw only one person looking like
someone around here - with panniers, riding in the street with the
other vehicles. I saw lots of riders, though, and bikes parked in
front of stores and public facilities. They claim the first
Bikestation in the country.

Anyone from Southern California have comments?

Warm Regards,

Claire
http://www.bicyclemeditations.org