Critical Mass Rides

Critical Mass Rides

A Critical Mass is a high profile regular ride around an urban route. It is intended to attract an ever-growing number of riders, who through strength of numbers are visible and assert their right to be there.
The one universal slogan of Critical Masses is We Are the Traffic. The long-running Masses have no pre-determined route, and all participants are equal leaders, having their own claim to their intentions and the purpose of the ride. There may or may not be an obvious overarching cause. Ideally, Critical Mass:
  • Starts from the same place at the same time so that people know where to meet you.
  • Takes place regularly, but not too often. Once a month is customary.
  • Encourages safe riding from participants.
  • Hands out leaflets supporting the cause, if there is one.
  • Remains courteous.

The police: Cycling UK's briefing on Cyclists' Behaviour and the Law has a section on Critical Mass.