Critical Mass

From Critical Mass’ FaceBook page:

Critical Mass is a monthly bicycle ride to celebrate cycling and to assert cyclists' right to the road. The idea started in San Francisco in September 1992 and quickly spread to cities all over the world. Critical Mass has no leaders, and no central organization licenses rides.

Critical Mass, San Diego rides the last Friday of every month.  They go on a different hour and a half [or so] ride every outing and are flanked by participating police for safeties sake.   The spot to meet is at the large fountain in Balboa Park.  People start accumulating around 7:00 p.m. and the ride kicks off at 8:00.  Critical Mass San Diego's FaceBook has 1,453 members so I would say people are into it and it has a pretty big following.  This is a ride that celebrates the act of cycling and all the joy and health that comes with it.  With that said it is also seen as a controversial happening due to the fact that many people feel inconvenienced and put out by this once a month ride through San Diego's streets. 

Why am I writing about this?  Because I finally did it!  I have always wanted to check it out and see if it is my kind of fun.  So last Friday my dear friend Chelsea [who is a freelance writer and curator, check out this link to one of her writing projects where she gives out great recipes!]and I drug our bikes out and gave it a go.  This was a big step for me seeing as how I am kind of afraid of riding a bike.  Yes yes I know how to but I am skittish and weary of falling over, getting hit by a car or running into something because I can’t stop.  This was the place to face those fears and I am pretty sure I shook them off for good.  Critical Mass is an engaging and energetic look into San Diego culture that I encourage everyone to try at least once.  I will keep you posted on the next time I go, because I am planning on becoming a regular. 

Tips:

• Wear thin easy to remove layer or dress in less clothing than you think you will need.  It is hard to catch up to take off a clothing item if you stop to do so. [You will want to it gets sweaty.]
• Bring a water bottle or wear one of those ‘O so cute’ camel back packs. [You get winded this is no puttering along Sunday ride.]
• Bring a friend – Chelsea is recommended… if you want to borrow her she would probably oblige.