Los Angeles kicked off its fourth CicLAvia Sunday with renewed vigor, thanks to Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa's announcement about the city's new bike-sharing program. an initiative that will make 4,000 bikes available in the city of Los Angeles. 

A $16-million investment by SoCal-based Bike Nation, a bike-share company, will make 4,000 bicycles available for Angelenos.

“Bike Nation’s new venture reflects a scene change in our city,” said Villaraigosa. “This is a city known for its single-passenger automobile, but we’re starting to get addicted to our bikes.”

Bike Nation will soon begin installing the 400 bike-share kiosks in the city. 

Founder Navin Narang said the bike-sharing system will spread across Westwood, Hollywood, downtown L.A. and Venice Beach. The first kiosks are expected to be up and running later this year; bike enthusiasts will be able to check out and return at the kiosks, paying a small usage fee.

Thousands of cylists joined in at the event, enjoying the sunny morning. While many rode mountain bikes or skated along the 10-mile route, some came to walk their dogs and take advantage of downtown streets free of cars.

Eileen Lee, 50, a resident of South Pasadena, came to bike with a group of 25 family and friends. She said she'd like to see streets closed off more often for bicylists. 

Lee generally opts for a car instead of public transportation when she has to travel. "It’s not fast enough for our needs where we are," she said of the public transit options.

“It’s hard to have public transportation here that can help everyone because it’s so spread out,” she said. “It’s great if you can make it work.”

Reach Staff Reporter Gracie Zheng here.