Held in over 300 cities around the world, a Critical Mass ride is an event typically held on the last Friday of every month as a “celebration” of cycling as an alternative to “cars, pollution, accidents and the loss of public spaces and freedoms”. They are usually organised no further than agreeing a meeting place and time, then setting off as a group through the streets on bikes.
Over the past few months, Belfast Critical Mass have held rides through the city that have been reasonably well attended and have passed without any of the controversy that has sometimes been attracted by larger Critical Mass events in other cities. The video clip below was taken during the September 25th 2009 event by one of the participants.
That all seems quite well behaved and civilised, though I’m not sure some of the drivers behind the group would agree.
I haven’t attended any of the past Belfast Critical Mass rides, nor, I have to say, am I likely to attend any future events. While I’m all for promoting cyclists’ rights and raising awareness of cyclists’ needs on the roads, I don’t agree with the Critical Mass tactics.
Critical Mass say “we’re not holding up traffic – we are traffic”, which on the surface is true. However, I believe that if cyclists are to reasonably ask motorists to share the road then we have to return the favour. After all, we have a duty to “be considerate of other road users“. I wouldn’t be comfortable riding in a large, slow moving group as shown in the video. It’s at best inconsiderate and I don’t think creating more angry motorists helps cyclists’ case at all.
You, however, are free to disagree. That’s what the comments are for.
I’m considering going on the one this Friday. The only reason I’d want to go is to meet other cyclists. As where I usually cycle there is next to no cyclists. Would you think it best to avoid this and do my own route? Probably up the Antrim hills.
Rob, it’s up to you if you want to go to Critical Mass. There is a social side to it. This Friday’s “Zombie Mass” fancy dress ride in particular will highlight that aspect of the event and you’ll very likely enjoy yourself.
But if you go, just try to be considerate of other road users. That’s all I’ll advise.
I saw this group riding down the Ormeau Road in September and wondered what was going on as they didn’t appear to be doing anything for charity. The was a guy with a ghetto blaster strapped to the front of the bike as they rode through the city. It looked like everyone was having fun, but I’m not sure that they were doing much to promote the cycling in the city!
That’s exactly my point Brian. They may be drawing attention to cycling, but I don’t think it’s in a very helpful way.
I had the waterproofs required. I decided not to go as was handing off my road bike for selling as im going mtb xc from now on.
John I’ve taken part in the Belfast CMs and it’s been very good hearted with no bad vibes so far. Come along. Zombie Mass video available here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nGuFzo-holg
Next one 27th November 6.30pm, Albert Clock Belfast.
Xmas Critical Mass 18th December 6.30pm Albert Clock Belfast – Fancy Dress!!!!!
Cheers
I’ve seen the videos so far and I have to agree Eamon, it looks like a bit of fun and no harm done. Maybe I have it wrong about Critical Mass.
I went to one of the early ones, and it was great fun – it was probably nearer 7pm by the time we actually set off so the rush hour traffic had pretty much gone and the town was fairly quiet.
Would def do another one
Here’s a video of the latest CM. Next one, Christmas Critical Mass, 18th Dec 6.30pm at Albert Clock Belfast. Fancy Dress!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j-zUiOVFLj8