Critical Mass Rides
April 5th, 2007 |“It seemed like they were using their bikes as weapons,” Ferrando said. One of the bikers then threw his bike — shattering the rear window and terrifying the young girls inside. All the while, Ferrando was screaming, “There are children in this car! There are children in this car!” She had the presence of mind to dial 911 on her cell phone — and within minutes, the squad of motorcycle cops who were assigned to keep an eye on the ride descended on the scene.
The cyclists were loudly demanding that Ferrando be arrested for hit and run. According to police, Ferrando had allegedly tapped one of the cyclists’ tires. When the alleged bicycle victim was approached, however, he said he wasn’t hurt. He also refused to give his name or any other information. Then, after a few swear words, the alleged victim took off on his bike while the rest of the crowd continued to yell at both the cops and the van.
Estimated damage to the car: $5,300.
I’m sure that both the car driver and some cyclists got a bit carried away with the hysteria of the moment. But I have to ask, what are the positive benefits to a critical mass ride? I fail to see it.
Creating a public awareness of cycling and cyclists is a noble goal. Grinding traffic to a halt does nothing but cause extreme irritation to those whom the riders are attempting to educate.
It seems to me to be an irresponsible exercise in public antagonism. I have been witness to a few of these events and the participants seem giddy with joy in regards to the havoc that they have caused. Does this do anything positive for the cycling community?
I don’t believe that it does.
