Source : Ross Hunt

Critical Mass is a monthly celebration that takes place in many cities in the world, including Vancouver, usually at 5:30pm on the last Friday of each month. By taking to the streets in a mass of bicycle riders, we hope to remind people that bikes are an efficient means of transport, and that bikers deserve a place on the roads. Critical mass is a event that is observed daily in China. Bicycle traffic "bunchs up" at intersections until the back log reachs a "critical mass" at which point the mass moves through the intersection. The first San Francisco ride, with 48 riders, began at 6 p.m., Friday, September 25, 1992. The April 22, 2006 Budapest ride participation was estimated at 32,000 riders.

Riding a bike is fun, good for you, doesn't pollute the environment, and doesn't waste limited resources (or encourage the government to kill innocent people to gain access to said resources). It doesn't contribute to suburbanization by spreading out cities to accommodate traffic and parking lots. It is a safe, friendly way to travel as opposed to the dangerous, often threatening, car or truck.

Critical Mass means different things to different participants. It is a celebration, not a protest, and gives the Comox Valley cycling community (both committed cyclists and casual riders) a chance to have a good time together. As a pack, we feel safe on the roads, which can be a welcome break from the lack of consideration we often encounter from drivers.

On April 21, Earth Day weekend, there will be a Critical mass ride here in the Comox Valley.

9:00 am Critical Mass bicycle ride from Cumberland Village Square and the Comox
Marina.

10:00am Critical mass bicycle ride from Simms Park, Courtenay.

"We are traffic!"