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In science, the point at which a chain reaction can become self-sustaining is called a critical mass. In some major cities, biking etiquette requires bike-traffic to wait until there are enough riders to push through the intersection- a "critical mass," if you will.
This term, coupled with a group bike commute in San Francisco, 1992, have birthed the Critical Mass Bike movement.
On the last Friday of every month in most major cities, hundreds of bikers gather together to 'take back the streets.' Among the participants are bikers of every color and creed- adults, children, professors, students, anarchists and business people ride alike. Some riders are distinctly pro-bike and view the ride as a protest against the dangers and pollution of cars. Others are pro-bike but not necessarily anti-car. Others still probably drive cars every day, but participate in Critical Mass as a recreational way to catch up with friends. As its website says, Critical Mass ultimately has no agenda other than to "celebrate the joy of biking, and to share that feeling with others."
So why am I choosing to write about Critical Mass? Tomorrow just happens to be the last Friday of the month, and I'm inviting you to become part of the movement. All you need is yourself, your bike, and a love of the ride.
Critical Mass departs from Daley Plaza (at the intersection of Dearborn and Washington) at 5:30pm.
See you there, and Happy Friday!
(for more information, check out: chicagocriticalmass.org)
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