Comments on: Editorial: Don’t Be a Mass-Hole This Friday

By: Chad

Chad — Wed, 02 Sep 2009 15:23:40 +0000

We just have to remember- it’s Critical Mass, not Critical Ass…

By: Changuito

Changuito — Sat, 29 Aug 2009 22:47:03 +0000

Very well spoken, both Esteban and Thom. I had a very positive experience last night. In the past I swore I would never attend. I am glad I changed my mind and attended last night. With any group, there is a pretty good chance that you will have some trouble makers, Critical mass being no exception. Fortunately I did not see anything too bad last night and I was happy I decided to stay and ride.

By: Esteban

Esteban — Wed, 26 Aug 2009 23:07:50 +0000

I agree. There is nothing inherently subversive about Critical Mass. Its best understood as an act of civil disobedience to advocate for a more livable urban environment (one of the key ideas to come out of the chaos of San Francisco’s infamous August 1997 ride). Its also, of course, an argument that bikes belong on roads along with cars (and perhaps most interesting as a leader-less postmodern social movement). I say leave yelling, festering, honking, aggression, and misery to the drivers – that’s their reality everyday. There’s nothing more threatening to drivers, in my experience, than a happy, smiling, waving cyclist who floats through all the smoke, metal, glass, and drudgery. So have at it, happy cyclists!