Critical Mass - What to expect, how to react
Critical Mass is a celebration of cycling in order to assert our right to the road and not about denying others their right to use it.
Sure, you will slow down or even block the traffic by joining a CM-ride, though cyclists are traffic themselves. To achieve mutual consideration on the road it is important to address motorists with respect and creativity:
- Leave at least one lane open for cars when you are not riding on a one lane road.
- Stay calm and friendly, especially towards motorists that get pissed off about the delay. Apologies, smiles and even fliers, explaining your intention, will win more than arguments and power plays.
Overseas the official reaction from authorities to Critical Mass rides has been hugely varied; everything from being almost oblivious to them happening, to hugely positive, with the more widely publicised clamp-downs happening in a minority of places.
CM is a coincidence with no leader or organisation but it means communication and cooperation.
You are fully responsible for the things you do and their consequences, although poorly thought out moves could affect the whole group and perception by the public.
- Cat
