ottawa critical mass

Critical Mass Ottawa: Summer 2011 Edition

2011-07-26T18:17:00.003-04:00

Q. How do you know it's summertime in Ottawa?

A. Bank Street is under construction again.

That's right, summer's here, and Critical Mass is in full effect! Bring your bike and your friends (and their bikes, and their friends..!) to Confederation Park (Elgin+Laurier) at 5:30PM this Friday, July 29th for an awesome group ride through the streets of Ottawa (the ones that aren't ripped up, anyway). Ride leaves at 6!

Ottawa Critical Mass 2011

2011-03-22T14:07:00.005-04:00

The snow is melting, the temperature is climbing, spring is coming... It's time to dig your bikes out of the garage, and get riding!

This Friday is the first big Critical Mass ride of the year, and you're invited!

Bring your bike and your friends down to Confederation Park (Elgin + Laurier) at 5:30pm for a fun and friendly ride around the city.

Critical Mass in the news...

2010-10-04T21:41:00.007-04:00

Ottawa Critical Mass was recently covered by Centretown News:

Monthly bike rally labelled 'anarchist event'

One thing I'd like to clear up: Critical Mass does not have a creator, organizer, leader, or even an official representative. When Critical Mass occurs, it's because a bunch of people decide to do the same thing at the same time in the same place.

Like Halloween, Critical Mass just happens.

Halloween is an interesting example. Every year, people form large groups, wander through the streets and slow down traffic. As critical mass critic Charles Akben-Marchand might say, "There are no concrete rules... nor is there a singular goal".

No one applies for a permit to go trick-or-treating. Does Halloween qualify as an anarchist event?

---

Speaking of Halloween, this Friday the 29th is Halloween Critical Mass! Bring your scary friends, spooky bikes, and crazy costumes to Confederation Park at Elgin+Laurier. Ride leaves at 6pm!

September Critical Mass

2010-09-23T17:28:00.001-04:00

September Critical Mass is tomorrow, Friday, the 24th. I've been asked to post the following message:

Dear Friends, family, activists, cyclists, world changers and people lovers.

It is with much regret that I write to you to inform you of a tragic event.
On september the 16th the Otesha Highlands and Islands tour (www.otesha.ca) was on tour in New brunswick. For those of you who are unfamiliar with Otesha, they are a not for profit, youth run, organization based in Ottawa, who organize cycling/performing tours all over Canada, spreading messages of empowerment, action, daily choices and love for the earth.
Three of the tour members were struck by a truck on one of the highways and one of the three was killed. Andrew wolf, a young man who, undoubtably, like the other members on his tour was inspired to share this great message with youth and adults alike, far and wide.

Any of us who have been on a bike before know that this could have happend to any of us on our two-wheeled travels. And anyone who has been on a bike tour such as this will know how incredibly difficult it must be for Andrews team mates still on tour.

Please join myself and other fellow cyclists/world changers/people lovers/activists/family and friends for a commemorative Critical mass bike ride in solidarity for Andrew, The Otesha project, and cyclists in general, on friday september 24 at 6:30 starting at city hall.
Critical mass is a family friendly event that encourages the use of bicyles in the city, they are a free flowing bike ride to celebrate, meet people, smile, ring bells and do what we love! RIDE OUR BIKES!!
The rides do not have a planned route and there are no assigned leaders, feel free to decorate your bike, dress up and invite all of your friends...in fact please do!
Otesha alumni, please bring your Otesha shirt!, Not Otesha alumni, feel free to turn your shirt inside out for the ride.

Cars dominate the road 30 days of the month, Critical mass is a day when we can imagine the world differently.

Please, please forward this to anyone who maybe interested.
I hope to see you all there,

in solidarity,

seb

July Critical Mass

2010-07-27T17:06:00.004-04:00

July 30th is the next Critical Mass! So, what are you doing this Friday? Nothing much? Well, come on down to Confederation Park (Elgin + Laurier), and join in the fun! The ride leaves at 6pm.

April Critical Mass

2010-04-29T13:13:00.003-04:00

2010 is 1/3rd gone, have you been to Critical Mass yet? If not, here's your chance: Critical Mass is Tomorrow, Friday the 30th! Same bat-time, same bat-channel (Does anyone under 20 get this reference?).

Critical Mass is Back!

2010-03-12T13:37:00.005-05:00

Spring is here, and Critical Mass is back in Ottawa! Let's make 2010 the year of the bike!

Bring your bike and your friends to Confederation Park (Elgin+Laurier) at 5:30pm, on the last Friday of every month. The ride leaves at 6pm. Next ride is March 26th!

November Critical Mass

2009-11-25T14:17:00.004-05:00

Don't forget, this Friday is Critical Mass!

In other news...

Pedestrians and cyclists should be made king of the urban jungle, according to an international study showing the big benefits of "mass active travel."

It suggests money should be diverted way from roads to make walking and cycling "the most direct, convenient, and pleasant options for most urban trips." Pedestrians and bikers should also get "priority" over cars and trucks at intersections.

Here's the full story.

Halloween Critical Mass 2009!

2009-10-23T17:26:00.006-04:00

Hard to believe another year has passed, but it's true! This Friday, October 30th is Halloween Critical Mass!

Wear a warm costume, and bring your friends!

Location: Confederation Park (Elgin + Laurier)
Time: 5:30pm (ride leaves at 6 pm)

September Critical Mass

2009-09-17T07:22:00.005-04:00

September Critical Mass is next Friday, the 25th! Bring your friends and your bike to Confederation Park (Elgin + Laurier) at 5:30pm. Ride leaves at 6!

PS: Did you know Critical Mass is a world-wide event? Here's a picture from Budapest, Hungary! Imagine if we could get that kind of turn out here in Ottawa.

90% of cyclist deaths are caused by careless motorists.

2009-08-28T18:40:00.005-04:00

An analysis of police reports on 2,752 bike-car accidents in Toronto found that clumsy or inattentive driving by motorists was the cause of 90 percent of these crashes. Among the leading causes: running a stop sign or traffic light, turning into a cyclist’s path, or opening a door on a biker. This shouldn’t come as too big a surprise: motorists cause roughly 75 percent of motorcycle crashes too. -- NYTimes

Here's the study the NY Times is talking about.

Drivers like to complain that cyclists are dangerous, but the numbers show where the real threat lies. Increase your visibility, get the attention of motorists and you're less likely to be run over. It's that simple.

Synchronized Cycling!

2009-08-20T01:26:00.001-04:00

I was thinking we should do this at the next critical mass.

PS: Next ride is Friday, August 28th!

Let's ride bikes!

2009-07-30T16:34:00.003-04:00

Critical Mass is this Friday, July 31st!

Same location as usual, Confederation Park (Elgin + Laurier). Ride leaves at 6pm.

Spring Critical Mass 2009!

2009-03-25T08:40:00.006-04:00

The first Critical Mass of Spring is this Friday, the 27th of March! Bring your bike and your friends to Confederation Park (Elgin+Laurier) at 5:30 PM!

February Critical Mass

2009-02-26T13:15:00.003-05:00

February Critical Mass is tomorrow! It's warming up out there (high of 3c tomorrow!), now's a great time to dust off your bike and get ready for spring!

January Critical Mass: This Friday!

2009-01-28T18:21:00.011-05:00

No buses? No problem! Let's make 2009 the year of the bike!

This Friday the 30th is January Critical Mass. Join us for a fun ride, everyone is welcome! We meet at Confederation Park (Elgin+Laurier) at 5:30pm, and the ride leaves at 6. The weather should be relatively warm for January, with an expected high of -4c. :)

November Critical Mass

2008-11-28T14:33:00.005-05:00

Today is November Critical Mass! Rumor has it there will be free hot chocolate. Bring your mitts!

PS: If you love riding, don't let winter stop you. Get some snow tires! I got these from the MEC in Ottawa. They're a little expensive, but give you amazing traction on ice!

Halloween Critical Mass

2008-10-24T20:02:00.004-04:00

This Friday the 31st is Halloween. But not just any Halloween... It's Critical Mass Halloween! Bring your bike, your crazy costume, and your friends to Confederation Park (Elgin + Laurier) at 5:30pm!

September Critical Mass

2008-09-25T16:02:00.004-04:00

It's tomorrow! First Critical Mass of the fall. Looks like it will be warm, but cloudy, according to the weather service. See you there!

Today is Critical Mass

2008-08-29T14:33:00.002-04:00

Looks wet out there, but don't let that stop you :)

Same time and place as usual.

Ever wonder how easy it is to steal a bike?

2008-07-21T11:24:00.004-04:00

Solution? Keep your bike where you can see it.

PS: Critical Mass is this Friday!

Critical Mass: This Friday!

2008-06-26T21:43:00.003-04:00

Critical Mass is this Friday, June 27th. Meeting place is the same as always, Confederation Park (Elgin + Laurier). The park is being used by Jazzfest, but fear not, there's plenty of space out front to meet up.

Here are some pics from last month.

Poland gets mega-highway for bikes

2008-06-20T04:49:00.005-04:00

A 2000 kilometer stretch of a biking highway is to be built, running through the eastern regions of Poland.

Marcin Myszkowski, one of the leaders of the 'Masa Krytyczna' action - a Polish equivalent of the Critical Mass Riders initiated in San Francisco back in 1992 - says this is news cyclists in Poland have long been waiting for: 'We do not have good bicycle routes in Poland. I hope this will be the first very good bike route for tourists. The result is the most important. Not just to build it, but to build it very well.'

via Polish Radio

We need more projects like this in Canada. Of course, there's the Trans Canada Trail, but I can tell you from experience, a large percentage of it is not bike friendly.

Critical Mass 1887

2008-06-11T03:03:00.009-04:00

May Critical Mass

2008-05-28T16:34:00.004-04:00

This Friday is May Critical Mass! Here's some pictures from last May's Critical Mass.

Ride leaves at 6pm from Confederation Park (Elgin + Laurier).

Last Friday of Every Month!

2008-04-25T10:51:00.002-04:00

Just a reminder, today is Critical Mass!

Bring your bike and your friends to Confederation Park (Elgin & Laurier) at 5:30pm!

It's Earth Day!

2008-04-22T10:37:00.003-04:00

Nice video by some people from Montreal. They even ride bikes ;)

Critical Mass: Spring 2008

2008-03-27T13:33:00.005-04:00

The first Critical Mass of spring is Friday the 28th of March! Bring your bike and your friends to Confederation Park (Elgin & Laurier) at 5:30pm!

Winter is over, let's ride!

Critical Mass: It's This Friday!

2007-11-28T13:21:00.000-05:00

Did you know? Critical Mass is year round! This Friday will be our first Mass of the winter, so put on your coat and mitts, and bring your bike for an awesome time! Ride leaves at 6pm, from Confederation Park.

Want some tips on winter biking? Check out Icebike!

Berkeley's Bicycle Boulevards

2007-11-15T04:08:00.000-05:00

Berkeley has an interesting approach to creating a bicycle friendly city. I think this could be easily adopted in Ottawa.

Do you remember the month of September?

2007-11-10T12:45:00.000-05:00

This might help - love the adjectives: "wacko", "anti-car" - all the while meaning CM but not knowing he was seeing a mass in action.

Brought a smile...

Critical Mass: Halloween Edition

2007-10-25T15:27:00.001-04:00

Don't forget, this Friday is the annual Halloween Critical Mass, so wear a costume if you have one!

Hintonburg Daily Mass

2007-10-25T13:22:00.000-04:00

The word is out - join us on Monday the 29th if you can, and bring a friend!

Critical Mass is This Friday!

2007-09-27T13:35:00.000-04:00

Tomorrow is the last Friday of the month, and that means it's time for Critical Mass! We meet in Confederation Park (Elgin+Laurier) at 5:30pm. Be there, or be square!

Critical Mass This Friday!

2007-07-26T20:20:00.000-04:00

Critical mass is this Friday, July 27th! Bring your friends :)

Copenhagen: This is what's possible.

2007-07-07T16:03:00.000-04:00

The bicycle-centric city is not a pipe dream. Let's make it happen here.

Confederation Park is CLOSED

2007-06-22T13:48:00.000-04:00

Confederation Park, our normal meeting spot, is closed until July 1st for Jazz Fest. If you show up without a pass, you can't get in. So, we need to decide on a new location.

Update: Rather than get confusing, it looks like a good idea to just meet up on the sidewalk in front of the park. :)

Car and Commandments (Seriously)

2007-06-20T22:18:00.001-04:00

The 10 commandments of driving
You shall not kill. The road shall be for you a means of communion between people and not of mortal harm. Courtesy, uprightness and prudence will help you deal with unforeseen events. Be charitable and help your neighbour in need, especially victims of accidents. Cars shall not be for you an expression of power and domination, and an occasion of sin. Charitably convince the young and not so young not to drive when they are not in a fitting condition to do so. Support the families of accident victims. Bring guilty motorists and their victims together, at the appropriate time, so that they can undergo the liberating experience of forgiveness. On the road, protect the more vulnerable party. Feel responsible toward others.
Source: The Vatican website and the Associated Press

The 10 commandments of driving

You shall not kill.
The road shall be for you a means of communion between people and not of mortal harm.
Courtesy, uprightness and prudence will help you deal with unforeseen events.
Be charitable and help your neighbour in need, especially victims of accidents.
Cars shall not be for you an expression of power and domination, and an occasion of sin.
Charitably convince the young and not so young not to drive when they are not in a fitting condition to do so.
Support the families of accident victims.
Bring guilty motorists and their victims together, at the appropriate time, so that they can undergo the liberating experience of forgiveness.
On the road, protect the more vulnerable party.
Feel responsible toward others.

Source: The Vatican website and the Associated Press

Cars and Danger

2007-06-19T22:37:00.001-04:00

McGuinty raises concerns after latest highway crash

Canadian Press

June 19, 2007 at 6:52 PM EDT

TORONTO — A car can be as dangerous as "a loaded gun," and as much as the government has done to crack down on street racing and reckless driving, the responsibility ultimately lies in the hands of those behind the wheel, Ontario Premier Dalton McGuinty said Tuesday.

Mr. McGuinty was commenting on a Monday morning crash on the busy Highway 400 that killed a truck driver and snarled commuter traffic until late that night.

Three men face a total of 11 charges in the crash, in which police blame speed and dangerous driving.

David Virgoe, 48, of Stroud, Ont., was identified Tuesday as the driver of the tractor-trailer who died in the crash. Mr. Virgoe leaves behind three children and five grandchildren.

Family members told the media Mr. Virgoe was a very safe and experienced driver who drove that stretch of highway each day.

The crash was the third major accident in four days on the busy north-south highway, and the second fatal one.

"There is no excuse for this kind of tragedy to unfold on Ontario highways," Mr. McGuinty said.

"We'll continue to talk to our police and ask them what it is more that we might do to make our highways safer, but at the end of the day there's one individual who sits behind the wheel in a car. It's like a loaded gun," Mr. McGuinty said at an auto industry funding announcement.

The Premier also said he has no intention of revisiting the issue of photo radar. He said the best advice the government has received is that photo radar won't help.

Prabhjit Multani, 20, and Nauman Nusrat, 19, the two men accused in Mr. Virgoe's death, appeared in Barrie court Tuesday and were remanded in custody pending a bail hearing set for Friday.

Witnesses said two or three cars were speeding and weaving in and out of traffic when one caused the tractor-trailer to lose control. The big rig ripped out a guardrail and careened back across the highway, tumbling down an embankment and into a ditch.

"This is happening every day on our highways and I hope our justice system pulls through and sends a message out," said Ontario Provincial Police Const. Dave Woodforde.

Drivers are hailing Mr. Virgoe as a hero for veering away from traffic and saving lives in the process.

"That truck driver decided at some point in a split second that he was going to save the lives of at least a dozen people on that highway," said Brian Patterson of the Ontario Safety League in an interview with Global TV.

"That guy's a hero in every measure — he's got to be commended for what he did because we would have had significantly higher carnage."

Standing beside Highway 400 early Tuesday, Const. Woodforde agreed that some drivers are failing to heed warnings to slow down on the highways.

"We are running a radar here (and) they're still not getting the message because we're clocking people at 125-130 kilometres an hour," he said.

"They just don't seem to get it."

~ World Naked Bike Ride - Saturday ~

2007-06-04T11:38:00.000-04:00

3rd Annual Ride
Saturday June 9th

Confederation Park

2pm - bodypainting
3pm - ride starts

We ride bikes* to protest oil dependency.

We ride naked** to symbolize cyclists' vulnerability on the road.

Join us!

There's over 100 people on our yahoo group, almost 50 keeners on Facebook.

All we're missing is you!

* ... or unicycles, skateboards, roller skates, inline skates... or any other freaky human-powered contraption.
** the ride is 'bare as you dare'. you don't have to ride naked. wear a gorilla suit, fairy wings, a lady godiva wig, your pjs or slather yourself with bodypaint! (see photos below for inspiration)

May Critical Mass Photos

2007-05-30T17:38:00.000-04:00

May's Critical Mass was a great success! It was raining earlier in the day, but it cleared up just in time for us to begin. Someone bought popsicles for everyone, which was nice, and I brought a bunch of juice boxes to share. The ride lasted about 2 hours, with the group splitting up just as the sun set.

Here's some pictures of the mass.

Today Is Critical Mass!

2007-05-25T05:09:00.002-04:00

Details over on the right -->

See you there...!

Who reads this Blog? And other administration issues

2007-05-17T17:04:00.000-04:00

Last year we closed this blog because we had some issues with "trolls" - people taking over the blog, changing the password, and writing posts hostile to critical mass.

As a result, we made it a "team blog", which means people can be invited to become members of the blog, or administrators of the blog.

I originally started the blog in Nov 2005 to help publicize and provide a forum for discussion about critical mass in Ottawa. This has worked to some degree, but a lot of critical massers do not use the blog. On top of this, I have left Ottawa, so now there are a number of others who administer the blog. But it takes a lot of time, and this seems to be falling on only a few people's shoulders.

The question is, are people still reading this blog? Does it serve a function?

If it is serving a function, is its current status of updates, etc., sufficient?

Do we need more administrators or members?

Animal Mass this Friday!

2007-04-24T18:44:00.000-04:00

This Friday, April 27, is Critical Mass

Meet at Confederation Park (Elgin and Laurier) at 6pm

The theme, should you choose to accept it, is Animals!

ps thanks to everyone who showed up for the viewing of You Never Bike Alone. We were able to raise almost 200 dollars for Otesha and the filmmaker. For those interested, copies of this documentary by Vancouver filmmaker Bob Alstead are available for purchase online at www.YouNeverBikeAlone.com

Cycle-Screening April 22: YOU NEVER BIKE ALONE

2007-04-16T10:01:00.000-04:00

Hey ho vélocrazy-ottawa!

Following last month's Exile Infoshop benefit screening of Still We Ride at Jack purcell, it seemed like a grand idea to keep bringing the cycling community together more regularly for films,workshops & the likes to encourage the devlopment of more bike-action in O-town...

...so this Sunday, APRIL 22

at 7pm-9pm, Jack Purcell Community Center

we will be showing a sweeeeeeeet documentary by a Vancouver filmaker, You Never Bike Alone, fresh from the editing room, to be premiered right here! A discussion and/or bike ride will take place afterwards to celebrate...

This month's screening will be a benefit for The Otesha Project, a youth-run organization that promotes social change by doing sustainable bike-tours all over Canada to empower youth, therefore we encourage a suggested 5-10$ donation. We will also be holding a bake sale at the movie.

Please help us spread the word - download the poster (above) and put it up around town, and encourage others to come.

Hope to see you there- Vive la vélorution!

For more information on the Otesha Project, visit www.otesha.ca
For more information on You Never Bike Alone, visit www.YouNeverBikeAlone.com

We are traffic

2007-03-31T22:58:00.000-04:00

I am halfway through watching a really good documentary on Google Video called We Are Traffic. It talks a lot about the community aspect of Critical Mass and is very positive so far.

Article and Response About a Vancouver Film on Critical Mass (That I hope we can bring to Ottawa soon)

2007-02-07T07:09:00.000-05:00

(See below for Article - This is the Response)

A big Thank You to Barry Link for taking the plunge and writing about this important film.

As someone who has been a stubborn Critical Mass rider for many years [and thus able to furnish Robert with some footage] it is amusing to observe the various public reactions to it. It truly is a grassroots formation; now that many riders know, the media finally begins to learn.

It is poignant the initial judgement that Link made of how he "[couldn't] stand the people involved," was based solely on ignorance. Also, Bill Rees is offended by the riding, but has never done it. This is generally the mindset of strong opponents to the ride - their judgement is based on a myth of violent antagonism or hippy/dismissive stereotypes. Our culture will not evolve to cohere if we are always judging others based on second hand prejudice.

Rees highlights the most typical complaint of the Critical Mass tactic - that we are blocking traffic. What uninformed non-Mass riders like him forget, is that bicycle riding IS traffic. That traffic jam that stalls you frustrated trying to cross the Lions Gate Bridge, could just as easily be caused by an abundance of self interested motorcar use - and most days of the month it is. Merely by occupying this space intentionally [instead of unconsciously] and in a group, we become the targets for the road rage that is inevitable with our insanely feeble cars-only-traffic system. By riding on Critical Mass, I have begun to learn what a street actually is: how our assumptions about what constitutes 'traffic' blind us to the most important public sphere.

Only experience can teach this. We have been conditioned to think of the reckless endangerment us all - as a merely 'pedestrian' concern.

When we act together, with awareness of the human impact on the streets, then anything is possible. The most inspiring part from the film, to me, was that bicycles are peoples' dreams made real.

www.velolove.bc.ca

------------------------------

----Contact
Russell Adams Buker

http://vancourier.com/issues07/015107/opinion/015107op2.html

Filmmaker focuses in on power of pedalling in numbers

By Barry Link

"I'd like to join a Critical Mass ride. Except I can't stand the people involved."

It's a comment I've heard more than once from people in past years, including from my own mouth. Critical Mass is the monthly bike ride that's part joy ride, part political rally. Starting at the Vancouver Art Gallery and then proceeding several hours through the heart of the city, it can now pull in a thousand or more riders who through their numbers take over any roadway they choose.

And as portrayed in filmmaker Robert Alstead's documentary You Never Bike Alone, the sight of those hundreds of bikes gliding in an unending column across the Burrard Bridge is a beautiful sight to see.

I'm a vanilla bicyclist. I meekly stick to the bike routes. I seldom ride at night. I wear a helmet and bike clothes from MEC and I always make sure I go forth with a pump and at least a bottle of water mounted on the frame. And on a Saturday night, when faced with a trip through the fog and cold from my home near the Fraser River to Tinseltown in the Downtown Eastside, I naturally drove my 18-year-old Isuzu putt-putt to the theatre to see the latest showing of Alstead's film. Many people, including writer Matt Burrows from the Georgia Straight, rode their bikes to the theatre, and you could see dozens of their bikes chained up to the railings outside the International Village Starbucks after the movie. It made me feel like I'd personally slurped down a tank of gas and farted it out as carbon into the atmosphere.

But their commitment, and Alstead's film, also made me like these people. Alstead, a frequent feature contributor to the Courier, has put together a compelling and intelligent film. Deftly edited and covering a lot of ground in 80 minutes, it maintains an entertaining pace while examining and celebrating Vancouver's bicycle activists, with the Critical Mass movement at the centre of it.

To his credit, he recognizes the controversy involved with Critical Mass and other bicycle radicals. At first, the police didn't know what to do with them and made the odd arrest. Car drivers were befuddled and angered when they blocked major thoroughfares. According to former councillor Gordon Price, providing some of the most fluid commentary in the film, Critical Mass has had no effect on civic politics or planning. Most councillors and city staff have never even heard of it, he says. The notable exception would be the NPA's Peter Ladner, who's seen participating in a ride in the film.

Even their natural constituents are uncertain. UBC's Bill Rees, a committed bicycle commuter who developed the ecological footprint idea, has never participated in the rides because he thinks they are politically counterproductive. In the film he recalls how he was stopped dead in his car by a Critical Mass rally as he was frantically trying to cross the Lions Gate Bridge to the North Shore to reach his ailing mother. No doubt, he says, other car drivers facing similar emergencies have also been frustrated if not exasperated by a road blocked by cyclists displaying a strong sense of entitlement.

They also have a strong sense of having their freak on, with colourful bikes and dress. Some are drawn to the rides because they'll support any cause going. Others see cars as the epitome of an industrial capitalism run amok. But most, it turns out, want to have fun and to enjoy biking in this city without fear of being run over by an SUV.

They're more goofy than freaky, and more charming than goofy. And what bad things can you say about that group of cyclists who occasionally ride naked through city streets in the name of making those streets safer and pollution free?

Critical Mass rides in some cities have fallen apart thanks to the tactics of deliberate confrontation with drivers and cars. According to Alstead, the Vancouver activists have practised peaceful responses to angry and potentially dangerous vehicle drivers and past harassment from police.

What's the secret to their strength? They've discovered the beauty of human-powered momentum on wheels. On an a sunny spring day, or almost any day, even in the rain, there's nothing quite like hitting the road with your bike. We could all do with more of it.

As the increasing network of bike routes in Vancouver demonstrates cycling has come a long way in Vancouver, even if it has a long way to go. Critical Mass, and the movements like it, might not be so much a cause but an example of that progress.

The next screening of Alstead's film is 2 p.m., Feb. 11 at Pacific Cinematheque. See www.youneverbikealone.com for more information.

published on 01/31/2007

back to top

CM in 2 hours

2007-01-26T16:49:00.000-05:00

Get on your bike!

PS Does anyone know how I can change the incorrect information to the right? I have looked all over for it and can't find the setting.

Dogs on bikes

2006-12-29T14:45:00.000-05:00

Here is an article on how to make a bike carrier for a dog. Sarah I don't know your email address, but I'm sure it could apply to cats or fish.

http://home.cogeco.ca/~vyorke/Bike%20Carriers.htm

Fixed

2006-12-28T11:30:00.000-05:00

I am thinking of building a fixed gear bike, hopefully to be serviceable while winter's still going since they seem like a good idea in the snow. Does anyone know where I can find good illustrated instructions?

Also what kind of hub is best and where should I get it? I am looking to do this as cheaply as possible although it'll probably end up being my most expensive bike. Can someone whose done this tell me how much I can expect to spend? Everything I find is in american dollars.

If I can get ANY bike together for tomorrow I will see youse then, but I'm not sure that's going to happen at this rate....

Cheers!

Ottawa Critical Mass Flickr photo group

2006-12-19T19:00:00.000-05:00

Hey guys,

I thought it would be interesting to have a flickr group for Critical Mass photos for the Ottawa CM. There aren't any photos up yet.. Anyone have some photos from the Ottawa CM they want to contribute?

Here's the link!
http://www.flickr.com/groups/ottawa_cm/

Also, I met a really nice guy in Melbourne who posted some interesting thoughts on taking photos at CM's, thought I'd share.

Happy riding!
Rob (currently hiding from the Canadian winter in NZ)

Facebook

2006-12-10T23:31:00.000-05:00

There is a facebook for Ottawa CM.

Quiz

2006-11-30T23:00:00.000-05:00

November's CM went really well. It was fun and chill and no one tried to bust us up.

This got posted as a comment I though I'd stick it on the front page as well.

I like you.

Do you like me?

[] YES

[] NO

I like potlucks.

Do you like potlucks?

[] YES

[] NO

I'd like to have a potluck after critical mass in December.

Would you like to have a potluck after critical mass in December?

[] YES

[] NO

Critical Mass in a week

2006-11-17T22:37:00.000-05:00

Don't forget that the next CM will be Friday Nov 24. Same time: 5:30pm Same place: Confederation Park

One for the scrapbook

2006-10-02T08:41:00.000-04:00

Regular rider Neil has written an article about Critical Mass. It's on the front page of the Peace and Environment News, which you can pick up for free all over the city.

Post your photos!

2006-10-01T22:34:00.000-04:00

I saw a lot of people with cameras at critical mass. If you have digitizing capabilities, please post a link to your pictures in the comments to this post.

Make us all feel like super stars!

Mitch Brogan

2006-09-24T12:48:00.000-04:00

"Biodiesel" Mitch Brogan, who Critical Massed with us all Winter and through part of Summer, was mowed down by a drunk driver in London, Ont where he now lives. London Commons has a post about it with more details, including how to send support.

As many of you already know, London activist and London Commons member Mitch Brogan was hit by a drunk driver while riding his bike last week. His was badly injured and has been in critical condition over the last week. At first because of some sort of a miscommunication we thought that his injuries were substantially worse, but today we have good news.

His neck was broken and he risked being paralysed from the neck down. Yesterday he started moving his arms around, but the doctors said that he had only a 10% chance of using his legs.

I'm probably going to go visit him in a couple of weeks when he's allowed to see people.

I'm so sad about this. Mitch has been such a good friend and lover to me since I met him a year ago.

I don't know if I'm going to be avilable for September's Critical Mass. I know I'm not the only friend he has here, so maybe someone would like to pass a card around to get signed or something?

Today is Car Free Day

2006-09-22T02:42:00.000-04:00

CM August: press and police, oh my!

2006-08-26T11:22:00.000-04:00

Turned out to be an interesting ride last night, with invlovement from the press and the police! Did anyone catch the news cast?

Critical Mass Friday 25 August

2006-08-21T21:37:00.000-04:00

Hey everyone,

Just to remind you, Critical Mass is this upcoming Friday. Bring you bike, longboard, rollerblades, skateboard, unicycle, trailer, tricycle, wheelchair or other non-motorised (exception for wheelchairs) vehicle and gather at 5:30pm at the fountain in Confederation Park (Elgin & Laurier, downtown Ottawa) for a super snakey ride. It's always friendly so don't worry if you don't know anyone else who's going, I promise you will by the end!

Is there a theme for this month? I dno't remember.

At any rate I hope to see everyone there!

Joy,
Gwen

Dear Ottawa Police

2006-08-09T12:22:00.000-04:00

Dear Ottawa Police Service,

In the last few days I've read two articles related to police targetingpeople who are cyclists. I'm concerned by what I read.

The first related to a "crack down" on people who cycle at night -- becauseaccording to the article police have found that they are a source of crime(might I add that I've never heard police announce a "crack down" on caruse at night). The second article, below, again describes how the OttawaPolice Service isn't making things easy for cyclists. In this case, yourconcern seems to be with cyclists infringing into pedestrian space. I would be very excited if you would show similar concern about carsinfringing the space of pedestrians or cyclists -- like those motorists whocut me off every time I try to use a crosswalk.

So my question for you is multi-part, and you may not be able to answer all of it right now. If anything, I hope to get you and your colleagues thinking:

1. Is the Ottawa Police Service is knowingly making these efforts to, ineffect, dissuade the travelling public from choosing to cycle?

2. Is the Service aware of the effect this sustained negative publicity toward cycling can have on the public's perception of cycling as a viabile choice for commuting or just "getting around?"

3. Does the Service understand that there are much larger issues than policing at play here -- notably public acceptance of this more sustainableand city-friendly mode of transportation/ healthy cities/ inviting places to live?

4. Are you going to start thinking about these broader issues when you undertake policing initiatives?

Thanks and warm regards,

A Bad turn on Pretoria bridge
David Reevely,
The Ottawa Citizen

Periodically, the Ottawa police set up on the Pretoria Bridge, which
ticketing people for biking on the bridge's sidewalks.

This month, the police are putting extra focus on cycling lawbreakers, apolice spokeswoman said on Friday, though she couldn\'t say whether they'd been particularly busy on the Pretoria bridge last week. Still, the Citizen got two letters complaining about it the same morning. Something wasdefinitely up.

The Pretoria Bridge is the easiest way to get a bike across the waterwaybetween Carleton University and the Ottawa River. It's low, so there's no steep uphill climb or stairs to contend with. All the other bridges (Bronson Avenue, Bank Street, Laurier Avenue, Mackenzie King) are so elevated that a cyclist has to circle around through roads and ramps that resemble highway clover leaves to get on and off; getting from the path to the Pretoria Bridge is more like taking a simple off-ramp.

When you reach the end of the ramp, the trouble begins. Unless you comeoff the bike path and hit a green light, the temptation to turn onto thesidewalk and keep your momentum is powerful. If you use the bridge sidewalkto get from the path on one bank of the canal to the path on the other, andobey the law in every way, you're in for a long dipsy-doodle around thetraffic islands at the west end. They're there so that turning a car fromPretoria Avenue onto Queen Elizabeth Drive (or vice-versa) is easy, smooth and quick. Pedestrians, pushing bikes or not, get the shaft.

If the police give you a ticket for riding on the sidewalk, there's nopretending you didn't see the signs. There are four, each set off by abrightly flashing yellow light. They all say "Please walk your bike on the sidewalk," which actually suggests not doing so is legal, if rude.

Even if the signs were firmer, it's hardly a fair fight -- like dropping the speed limit on a stretch of wide arterial road to 40 km/h for noobvious reason, then waiting to nab the speeders. The law's the law, but it's an ass.

I watched the bike traffic cross the bridge at an afternoon rush hour atthe end of last week. Most cyclists used the road; there are no bike lanes,but the road is wide enough to be generally safe. Of 22 who took theirbikes on the sidewalk while I watched, 17 rode and only five (including awoman and the young girl with her) walked them. Fifteen minutes there wouldhave yielded the police $595 worth of tickets, if they could write themthat fast.

Presumably the no-bikes-on-sidewalks law is to protect pedestrians,though the Pretoria Bridge\'s sidewalks are wide enough to accommodate both.An afternoon\'s cyclist-hunting would pay for a lot of paint. The city couldput lines on each of the bridge\'s sidewalks. Cyclists over here,pedestrians over here, problem solved. (Even without the lines, the hazardis nothing like that posed by pedestrians walking on the wrong side of thepaths by the canal itself; the National Capital Commission commandeered all the best cycling routes in the city yet refuses to take responsibility forthem as the commuting routes they are. But that's a different column.)

The new footbridge over the canal, midway between the Pretoria andMackenzie King bridges, is explicitly meant to take bikes. Wojciech Gryz, one of the project's managers, says the footbridge is to open at the end of September.

"It will be divided into two lanes, each two-and-a-half metres wide, and pedestrians and cyclists will share," Gryz says. "There won't be any signs, and they won't have to get off their bicycles."

So on the footbridge, it'll be OK for walkers and bikers to mix. On the Pretoria Bridge, it's a ticketing offence. The Pretoria Bridge sidewalk trap is a minor annoyance, but it's the sum of such annoyances that makes for a transportation problem. The Spacing Wire website (www.spacing.ca/wire), which reports on urban transportationand other uses of public space in Canada (particularly Toronto), last week mentioned an Singapore-based group called iwant2bike2work.org, a cycling lobby whose elegant mission is "To make bike commuting so convenient, it's irresistible." Wouldn't be a bad motto for a city transportation department desperate to lessen congestion.

Spacing Wire also notes that Toronto is starting an experiment with a bike-locker program. For $10 a month, you can rent a fully enclosed one-bicycle space at one of several strategic spots around the city, with a door locked with a city-supplied key. The idea is these lockers will bemore secure than locking a bike to a parking meter or post and leaving itthere all day, and will save riders the trouble of stripping off and hauling into work all the easily snatched parts of a commuter bicycle --seat, front wheel, air pump, water bottle, panniers -- that a lock doesn't protect.

Meanwhile, we're practically entrapping cyclists for doing something on one bridge that's about to be legal on another. Toronto is serious about non-auto commuting. Ottawa isn't yet.

David Reevely is a member of the Citizen's editorial board and a good-weather bicycle commuter.

Sharing Administration of Blog, ottawacriticalmass Email, DA Bike Collective Listserve

2006-08-01T11:33:00.000-04:00

Hi

A number of people who have taken the lead in administering some of the "tools" we use to communicate critical mass in ottawa are leaving the city this month (myself included). If anyone is able to help out by contributing to some of these tasks, we can ensure the sustainability of these important communication functions.

Specifically, I am looking for (1) more people to help administer the blog (there are already several in addition to myself); and (2) someone/ some people to check the ottawacriticalmass email regularly (mainly to allow new people to join the blog team by sending them invitations, as well as sending out reminder emails before the monthly ride)

The administrator of the DA Bike Collective Listserve, Martin, is looking for someone to take that over as well (which involves moderating certain emails as well as allowing new people into the list serve)

If anyone is interested please email ottawacriticalmass@gmail.com or dabikecollectiveottawa@lists.resist.ca

Cheers! Naomi

PS if anyone has other ideas on how to communicate critical mass better, feel free to respond/adapt/evolve. This is our ride, so we can make it happen!

Bike Lift (and other July CM photos)

2006-07-31T11:23:00.000-04:00

July 2006 Critical Mass Photos

I took these during last months CM, enjoy!

Address of Confederation Park

2006-07-31T11:09:00.000-04:00

Hi, in the last email sent round the listserve I forgot to add the address of Confederation Park.

It is at Elgin and Laurier, across from the Law Courts, right beside the Laurier bridge.

As someone noted in an email, we should probably try to include this address in future emails, and as I'm leaving Ottawa I wanted to put this in public space for others who will be sending out the emails for future rides.

cheers

naomi

--(email recieved at ottawacriticalmass@gmail.com):
Hi!

I hope to find the time to come out to aCritical Mass one of these times.
I would appreciate it if each time you announcethe Critical Mass, you don't just say "confederation park" but also say WHERE confederation park is, i.e. name two intersecting streets.
Looking up the location of the park would be one more step I would have to take before coming; providing that information would make it easier for me to figure out whether I have time to get there and I would be more likely to decide to come.

Thanks!

Psst ... Tomorrow is July Critical Mass

2006-07-27T15:21:00.000-04:00

Tomorrow is July Critical Mass

Friday July 28

Meet at Confederation Park
5:30pm
Ride Leaves at 6:00pm

Please join us for a leisurely ride through the streets of Ottawa,
as we protest car culture and reclaim the city streets for people.
All human-powered vehicle operators welcome!

the costume theme (if you like dressing up) is zombies and/or suits.

Planning August Critical Mass for Climate Justice

2006-07-27T11:09:00.000-04:00

Hello!

I'm a critical mass rider from Ottawa who is working with other cyclists andthe climate change action group Rising Tide to organize a continent-wideKatrina anniversary critical mass ride for the last Friday in August (the25th).

This was the day Hurricane Katrina reached hurricane strength.The idea is to remind people of the still ongoing crisis in the Gulf and thepotential for further catastrophic events from fossil fuel inspired climatechange.

We're looking for contacts with critical mass groups who want to collaborateon this, which would basically mean committing to organizing a ride markingthe day and hopefully:

1. Organizing a sign making making party for the ride ("More Cars = MoreClimate Change = More Katrinas", "Critical Mass for Climate Justice","Katrina was Environmental Racism", etc.).

2. Advertising the event to make it a big critical mass (we're developingdesigns for flyers, handbills, etc.)

3. Collecting funds at the Critical Mass ride to send to activist and reliefgroups in New Orleans.

4. Print out education stuff to hand out to people on the street witnessingthe Mass (we've got some of this in the works too.)

5. Spreading the word to Critical Mass riders in other cities.

PLEASE Let me know if you might be interested! You can write me backor email katrina@risingtidenorthamerica.org for more info. There will be alot more info at www.risingtidenorthamerica.org really soon as well!

Tandem Bike Stolen

2006-07-27T11:01:00.000-04:00

Hey guys,If you wouldn't mind keeping an eye out around the city for Kelly andBrenden's bike......email below from Kel;

Our tandem bike got stolen... which really really sucks. Brenden and I useit as a main source of transportation. It was stolen out of our backyard(near corner of Booth and Sommerset) between 11 pm and 8: 30am. It is white1980s norco tandem with 2 black seats (one racer style and one cruiserstyle). We're offering a cash reward, so if you see anyone riding it/ trying to sell it, please tackle them and be rewarded.

There are very few tandems in this city. Ours is mostly recognizable as having a big mountain-bike like frame.There are pictures of similar looking bikes here (except ours is old andwhite): http://www.norco.com/bikes/spec_tandem.htm

I've emailed basically everyone in the city that I know, but if you know anybike couriers or other folks that might take notice of a tandem, please pass this on.thanks,

kelly kellyfritsch@gmail.com

Tomorrow is SUPERHERO critical mass!

2006-06-28T23:35:00.000-04:00

Tomorrow, June 30, is Superhero Critical Mass. Come dressed as a superhero or anything else.

We meet at confederation park at 5:30pm and leave at 6:00pm.

Bring all your friends too!

Trans Cycling Odyssey in Ottawa!!!

2006-06-21T21:46:00.000-04:00

Trans Cycling Odyssey in Ottawa!!!
Sunday June 25th
Jack Purcell Park & Venus Envy

~Bike Ride~
2:30pm
Jack Purcell Park
Quick tour to Terry Fox monument, Parliament Hill & Human Rights
monument.

~Picnic~
3:00 - 5:30pm
Jack Purcell
speakers, collecting donations. food and drink

~Workshop/Speaking Engagement~
6:30pm
Venus Envy

This cross-Canada bike trip is designed to spread awareness
of transgendered issues and suicide prevention. The 3 month
long ride celebrates the life of Alexandria Tucker - a transgendered
woman who was born in St John's NL, lived & worked in Victoria
BC and took her own life in April of 2005. Half of Alexandria's ashes
were spread in Victoria, the other half were transported to St
John's by the Trans Cycling Odyssey.

The Trans Cycling Odyssey is one it's way back home. They are
running low on funds and so are accepting donations of gas cards,
dried pasta, size 8.5/9 vegan shoes etc. and of course - cash!

check with Venus Envy for schedule updates: 613-789-4646

or visit http://www.flyingtrannys.com/ for more info

June 30 Superhero Critical Mass (or whatever you want to wear instead)

2006-06-21T21:41:00.000-04:00

theme for june critical mass

2006-06-11T20:01:00.000-04:00

hey what about a theme for the june mass?

some suggestions so far: suits, race numbers, superheros..

Any others? Any favourites from those?

(email ottawacriticalmass@gmail.com to get access to post)

World Naked Bike Ride Next Saturday!

2006-06-04T22:39:00.000-04:00

Of course a lot of you have already heard about World Naked Bike Ride and maybe you're even thinking of coming out this Saturday, June 10, to Confederation Park - 2pm for body painting and decorating, 3pm for the Ride.

Here is some more information and pictures taken from some of the World Naked Bike Ride websites to give a better idea of the purpose of the ride, what it might look like and hopefully get some more people excited about coming along! Please explore the websites for more info on getting ready for the ride.

www.worldnakedbikeride.org

"We face automobile traffic with our bodies as the best way of defending our dignity and exposing the unique dangers faced by cyclists and pedestrians as well as the negative consequences we face due to dependence on oil, and other forms of non-renewable energy."

wiki.worldnakedbikeride.org

"Frequently Asked Questions"

Isn't riding naked uncomfortable?

Suprisingly, for both women and men, riding naked isn't especially less comfortable than riding clothed. When riding with clothes on you're often rubbing against the seams, so in some ways naked riding is comfier! Ride routes will often be chosen with less experienced cyclists in mind, so will avoid hills and be more leisurely in pace, increasing comfort.

Do I have to ride a bike?

No! Any sort of skates (skateboards, inline skates, rollerskates, rollerblades etc) are welcome too. You won't be able to keep up with rides travelling on foot, but any alternate body-powered transport is welcome and encouraged. Several events have people riding on skates, unicycles, tricycles, chopper bikes, tandems, recumbants and rickshaws. The only sort of bikes that would be unwelcome would be petrol-powered motorbikes and scooters.

Do I have to ride naked? Can I participate clothed or top-free?

The World Naked Bike Ride dress code is "as bare as you dare". How bare is that? How much do you dare? It's all up to you: you decide what you are comfortable with. The ride is clothing-optional.

No one is excluded or discriminated against based on levels of clothing, body paint, or anything else for that matter!

While nudity isn't required to participate in this ride we encourage you to challenge yourself. Wear as little as you can while still feeling comfortable about it. Last year, people came wearing shorts, bras, swimwear, body paint, masks etc. There will be plenty of people who will cycle fully nude, so don't feel that it is your duty to do this if you aren't comfortable showing all of your body. Respect your own boundaries, and go As Bare As You Dare!

What if I'm not thin, young, conventionally attractive, or have scars on my body etc?

Great! Please come to the ride! We'll all be there to ride with you in celebration of your body's strength and individuality. People of all ages, sizes, builds and appearances ride on World Naked Bike Ride. At the ride, you'll be treated with dignity and respect no matter what your body looks like.

What does it feel like to ride nude?

Just like it does with clothes but a bit cooler. Most riders also find it exhilerating, liberating, empowering... and downright hilarious!

Why would anybody embrace public nudity?

Non-sexualized, colourful and creative nakedness in uptight societies is a refreshing way to remind people of some of the fundamental freedoms of life that people have collectively handed over, without really thinking of the consequences. Its about body-positive values: living a healthy life in tune with, not against, our environment; respecting the natural beauty and diversity of human bodies; and establishing and projecting a positive self-image and rejecting shame.

Do I need to get a permit to ride naked on the streets in a large group?

How many Critical Mass (http://critical-mass.info/) groups seek permits to ride in the streets? Do car drivers get permits to cause traffic jams? Do you think you need permission to ride your bicycle with others? Isn't bicycle riding one of the most responsible and efficient ways to get around? Shouldn't local and national government be supporting people who encourage change for the better? Do you need a permit to swim naked at the beach or to sunbathe in the park? Think about it. Think about the implications of asking permission for your freedom, rather than granting yourself the right to live fully and completely.

It's one thing to work with officials or other community groups to make sure the event happens in a successful way if you are using city resources or community space, but quite another to ask for permission to use the roads that you collectively own with other tax payers to go cycling in a responsible manner.

Will I get arrested?

A common question that seems to be coming up is, what does the law say?

Yup, it seems that almost everywhere in the world riding your bicycle naked is illegal — but still we do it!

Most of the naked rides that we have done in Vancouver, have been, well pretty much naked, but Vancouver is a lot more tolerant than say Beijing or Riyadh.

If you feel uncomfortable going completely naked or you are afraid of any legal scuffles, here is some advice. Don't go completely naked.

Above, an artist produced this painting to invite the community of Seattle to mock the looming threat of police arrests of naked participants, including the Nekkid Bicyclists, during the 2001 Fremont Summer Solstice Parade. Pictures above and below appear courtesy of Gary David Yngve (http://www.cs.washington.edu/homes/gyngve/).

Here is why we have been getting away with it:

The laws on nudity are often incredibly vague and difficult to enforce

You probably don't need to cover up an awful lot to be legal. With the incredible transforming powers of a little body paint, liquid latex, a strategically-placed sock or duct tape you too can transform the average city-streaking wild naked cyclist into "the legal city-streaking wild naked cyclist". Be creative: a little imagination can change everything.

The laws on nudity also seem to hinge on something called "indecent exposure". The fact of the mater is that being naked is not "indecent". There is nothing indecent about a naked body. The only thing that is indecent are the laws on indecent exposure. Simon Oosterman of the Auckland 2005 WNBR says it best: "Stop the indecent exposure to vehicle emissions!" After all, the shame is on them, not on us!

There are many indecent laws that we the citizens of the world have to stand up to, especially those that infringe our personal freedoms.

Police do not want to be seen confronting a large group of peaceful naked people

It's too embarrassing!

World Naked Bike Ride is clothing-optional

Ride "as bare as you dare!"

Our best weapon is humour

This is a very important one. If you encounter police or any other aggression, do not reciprocate the aggression. Keep it light. It's tough getting angry at a colourful naked person on a bicycle.

Anger and aggression only returns anger and aggression.

None of our rides have been behind closed doors, we do them loud and we do them proud. After all, who would care if we did the ride in reserved nudist areas or where no one could see us? We advertise them in local non-mainstream newspapers. We are challenging social norms, we are challenging the template laws that tell us that what is right is wrong.

I have had many fun encounters with police officers, one of the most interesting was when this grumpy police officer came up to me and told me that he thought that what I was wearing was indecent. I looked him straight in the eye and told him that I thought his opinion was indecent. I was right — and no — I was not arrested.

Nobody has ever been arrested at any of the major naked cycling events in Vancouver, Spain or Germany. There have been arrests in Seattle during the Solstice Parade, but charges were dropped and police do not generally engage the naked cyclists during that event anymore. One of the other arrests at that event was due to an situation where one of the bicyclists accidentally hit a child on the parade route. Just bicycle responsibly and use common sense.

The only arrest that has ever been made at a WNBR event was on February 13, 2005 in Auckland. More info at the Enzyme WNBR web site

WNBR is not just a ride against oil dependency, its a ride for self-empowerment.

What does riding bikes naked have to do with protesting oil dependency?

We face automobile traffic with our naked bodies as the best way of defending our dignity and exposing the unique dangers faced by cyclists and pedestrians as well as the negative consequences we all face due to dependence on oil, and other forms of non-renewable energy.

It looks more like a party than a protest. Why should WNBR be taken seriously as a form of political expression?

Having fun and doing public outreach are not mutually exclusive goals. People see us on the streets and you can see the gears turning in their heads. People see a large group of cyclists and they think to themselves, what is this, why are they doing that? It won't take long for them to figure out that by doing something different, by immersing ourselves in lanes intended for cars and not for bicycles, by tossing our clothes and rejecting our shame, we are protesting a way of life which needs to abandoned.

We paint our bodies with political messages or beautiful designs to complement our forms. We pass out flyers informing the public about our message. We use portable public address systems or raise our voices and chant in unison

Getting people to laugh and smile is a great way to connect and share ideas in a non-threatening way. We realize there will always be the occasional grinch that just can't share the road with cyclists or stand the sight of a natural human being. Fortunately for us, their numbers are decreasing and ours are increasing.

Can I bring a placard, leaflets etc? What message should I communicate?

We recommend bringing something that communicates the messages of the ride (opposition to oil dependency and celebration of our bodies). You could paint the message onto your body (click here for a terrific photo of painted messages from Aukland's Feb 2005 ride, and inspiring use of stencils from the USA's RNC 2004 protests in NYC). You could mount a sign/object/flag onto your bicycle. You might want to wear a prop (mask, wings, tail, etc). Use your imagination.

Don't feel limited by the main WNBR messages. You can communicate opposition to oil dependency through a number of local-specific issues. You may feel strongly opposed to the UK and US led war in Iraq. It can be easily argued that this war wouldn't have happened if the world were no longer oil dependent. It would make sense to attend the World Naked Bike Ride in protest of the war in Iraq or any other conflict fuelled by oil dependency.

More Biking News

2006-05-31T18:21:00.000-04:00

From http://www.cbc.ca/ottawa/story/ot-driver20060531.html

Sentencing delayed in bicycle hit-run

The sentencing hearing for a man accused of injuring a group bicyclists after clipping one with his pickup truck has been postponed for two months. Richard Martin was found guilty in April of dangerous operation of a motor vehicle and for failing to remain at the scene of an accident after the incident in June 2004. A dozen Ottawa Bicycle Club members were cycling down Riverside Drive when Martin drove by the group in his truck, slowed down and then clipped the lead rider, court heard. The lead rider suffered two broken ribs and a dislocated shoulder, and four others were injured in the resulting pileup. During the trial, court was told that Martin, whose son was with him in the truck, laughed about the incident all the way home. On Wednesday, Martin's lawyer, Kimberley Pegg, argued her client had "no malevolence" when he sideswiped the rider. Pegg admitted her client had some responsibility for the incident, but argued it is "on the low end of bad driving."

The hearing has been postponed to Aug. 9.

This story was also on the radio this morning with an interview from the President of the Ottawa Bicycle Club.

I was shocked at how minimal the convictions were considering the impact described - the guy that was "clipped" broke bones and many others on that ride ended up falling in a chain reaction.

Isn't using a vehicle to injure people more like assault than dangerous driving?

Arrests in Winnipeg Critical Mass

2006-05-29T18:45:00.000-04:00

Cops haul in Bike Activists

Monthly Ride Gets Ugly

Sat, May 27, 2006

By ADAM CLAYTON, STAFF REPORTER

A bike ride through the streets of downtown Winnipeg ended in chaos and arrests yesterday.

Members of Critical Mass Winnipeg -- an activist group that promotes bicycle use over automobiles -- claim police used excessive force when several cyclists were arrested near the provincial legislature.

Police followed approximately 50 cyclists -- many dressed in costumes in what was apparently a display of self-expression -- along their route before trying to arrest some members near the corner of Donald Street and Broadway around 5:30 p.m.

Melanie Howe, who was taking part in the monthly bike ride, said she wasn't sure how everything started. Earlier, police stopped traffic at the corner of Portage Avenue and Main Street so the cyclists could proceed.

"I saw several cops chase after this bicyclist and grab him in a headlock from the back," said Howe, who wore fairy wings and antennae. "I saw one fellow with a cop's knee on his head; he was being pressed to the ground."

JAWING

Shaun Martin said police and some of his fellow cyclists were jawing at one another before all hell broke loose.

"People started arguing with the cops. There's some anti-establishment sentiment going on here. I guess some guys got aggressive and things got out of hand," he said. "It was just crazy. Absolutely crazy."

Police Insp. Steve Pilote said five adults were arrested in total and face traffic-related charges in addition to possible charges stemming from the scuffle that broke out.

Critical Mass members, who gathered outside the Public Safety Building following the arrests, said some cyclists were injured and one might have suffered a broken leg but Pilote said any injuries were relatively minor.

"I don't know of anybody that has any injuries that were of any consequence," he said. "I would expect there might be some scrapes and bumps on both sides but nobody went to the hospital or anything like that."

Several Critical Mass members were arrested earlier this month for allegedly disrupting traffic to protest Operation Charging Bison, a military exercise that took place in Winnipeg.

http://winnipegsun.com/News/Winnipeg/2006/05/27/1600823-sun.html

Ye Cycling Pirates

2006-05-24T07:47:00.000-04:00

This friday may 26 be the pirate critical mass

So I shall tell ye now the long and the short of it: This
Friday it will be six and twenty days of May (May 26th) as we here
know it to be the last friday of the month cycle. So then it shall be
a pirate Critical Mass this month only. We Ride for one and all to
join in to or walk the plank (just don't drive a car there!)

We shall Meet on the "X" spot at Confederation Park. We shall
parley there around 530pm I say but I reckon we won't be leaving until

6pm on that eve. We hope to ride to Cape of Good Pedalling, where the
Car-Free Island that we will create by riding together gives us the
bounty of safe and comfortable cycling.

Come as ye will, festooned in pirate gear for all to see,
bring flute or drum or any noisey thing you can carry to inspire the
imagination. Not just bicycles but all those who sail under their own
wind are welcome, skateboards, wheelchairs, rollerskates etc. We set
out at 6 PM sharp rain or shine so ye best come prepaared!

- Remember, We Don't Block Traffick For, We ARRRR Traffick!!

Three Weeks to World Naked Bike Ride!

2006-05-22T22:06:00.000-04:00

further discussion on CM this wednesday night

2006-05-14T15:01:00.000-04:00

anyone interested in meeting to discuss some of these strategy issues for critical mass is invited to come out this wednesday night at 7pm, at 279 flora street (at percy). please pass the word along,

and if you can't attend but are still interested in getting some ideas out there please have your own discussions, use the listserve, or post to this blog! (email ottawacriticalmass@gmail.com for access).

(Dinosaurs Against Fossil Fuels)

Do You Want to Post?

2006-05-07T14:21:00.000-04:00

If you want to post, please send a request to ottawacriticalmass@gmail.com and you will recieve a reply invitation to join the team, and you will be able to post. Note that you must have or create an account with Blogger.com in order to do this.

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You're Right - cycling is dangerous

2006-05-05T18:30:00.000-04:00

This one hit a little too close to home ...

Cellphone distraction cited in B.C. cyclist's death

CBC News

http://www.cbc.ca/story/canada/national/2006/05/04/driver-cellphone.html

Commuter Group Ride to Work

2006-05-05T18:18:00.000-04:00

I currently bike to work from Bank/Sunnyside to Bank/Laurier. I have tried biking straight down Bank St., since this is the most direct route, but every time I do this ride I find the experience unenjoyable because cars drive very closely to me.

I more often bike along the canal to Lisgar where I bike back to Bank St. This does not take me much longer - maybe about 10 minutes.

I feel frustrated by my intimidation to ride down Bank St. and I wanted to do something about it.

I would like to start a commuter group ride to work. Ideally I would like it to be every day (to and from) but maybe we can start by testing it out one day a week.

If anyone is interested please let me know!

We could meet at Bank/Sunnyside (NW corner) in the parking lot at 8:20 a.m. and head downtown shortly after.

After work we could meet at Bank Laurier (SE corner) in the parking lot at around 5pm and head back down Bank St. towards Sunnyside.

let me know your thoughts!

More Discussion From Neil

2006-05-03T00:19:00.000-04:00

Flame war aside, some good points have been raised here. Friday’s Critical Mass was the first I’ve ridden in, and I think it’s a positive event with a good message. I also think that some things that shouldn’t have happened, happened.

When we ride as a large group we attract a lot of attention to ourselves. That’s the whole point of Critical Mass. It also means that we need to be doing things safer and cleaner than any other time we ride. It wouldn’t take much to make the event a lot less of a nuisance to drivers and pedestrians without compromising its spirit. If we want to turn to police who stop us and say we’re not doing anything wrong, then we better make sure we aren’t.

The city says everyone on a bike needs a bell and a little reflective tape on their front and rear forks. Spending six or eight dollars at MEC or a cycling store will set you up with these. If there are people on the rides who really can’t afford them, maybe some of the riders with more income can chip in and pick up some bells and tape to distribute.

While you’re at it, get a helmet. You can get a perfectly good one for about fifteen bucks, it shows everyone you’re safety conscious, and it could save your life if something does go wrong on the ride.

The city also asks us not to ride on the sidewalk. We all do it now and then, but let’s avoid doing it on the rides. There are enough of us on the street that getting hit from behind isn’t a real danger, and we’ll avoid getting pedestrians angry.

Whenever we’re on a street with more than one lane in each direction, let’s keep at least one lane clear so that traffic can pass by us. It’ll annoy fewer drivers, and they’ll get a great view of us as they cruise past. If what I saw Friday is any gauge, some of them will smile and wave. There’s really no good reason to ride in the oncoming lane, as a few people did. It’s not safe, and I can’t see how it improves the event. As for running red lights, it’s probably impossible to avoid it completely.

For the non Critical Mass riders who are reading this, I’ll explain quickly. The whole point of the ride is to travel as a group, and from time to time a light will change as the pack is travelling through an intersection. This means some of us have to run the light to keep the group together. In order to keep things safe, some riders usually line up on either side of the intersection and “cork” the traffic, just until the pack gets through. We don’t do this to piss people off, we do it to keep riders from getting hurt.

On the other hand, if a light turns red as the group is approaching an intersection, STOP! Use the pause as a chance for the riders to re-group and re-organize. Running the light isn’t safe anyway. If you are corking, be nice about it. Smile and wave, even if the drivers are honking and frowning, and always say “thank you” as you ride away.

If the worst should happen and a motorist decides to start trouble, DON’T ESCALATE THINGS! Hold your ground till the pack gets clear of the intersection, then ride away. Don’t flip them off, don’t yell; heck, don’t look angry if you can help it. And of course, do NOT start a physical confrontation. No good will come of it.

If the cops show up, PLEASE don’t instigate. Get out of the way if they drive up with their lights and siren on (same goes for any other emergency vehicle). If they stop you, be polite and answer their questions. If you’ve followed the other suggestions I’ve made, you’re not doing anything wrong anyway, and they have no grounds to fine or arrest you. And it should go without saying that talking shit or shouting “more bikes, less cops” does us no good at all. The whole point of what we do is to promote bikes and bike riding in the community at large. If we want the community to treat us with respect, we need to show respect to its other members. Let’s attract attention, but let’s be smart about it.

Critical Mass is a monthly bicycle ride to celebrate cycling and to assert cyclists' right to the road.

2006-05-02T12:43:00.000-04:00

In the interest of having a better-informed conversation about Critical Mass, I have posted the following regarding what the ride actually is. There appears to be quite a lot of misinformation about the purpose of the ride!

Please Visit http://critical-mass.info/ for more information

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. This site attempts to be the most complete guide to local Critical Mass rides around the globe.
Critical Mass has a different flavor from city to city -- there's a big variety in size, respect of traffic laws (or lack thereof), interaction with motorists, and intervention by police. So if you want to know more about Critical Mass, you'll really need to find out what your local ride is like. For those who must know more right now, here's a link to Phoenix, Arizona CM, which I suppose is a "typical" CM ride, if there is such a thing.
Critical Mass has no leaders, and no central organization licenses rides. In every city that has a CM ride, some locals simply picked a date, time, and location for the ride and publicized it, and thus the ride was born.
CM is an idea and an event, not an organization. You can't write to "Critical Mass" -- certainly not by writing to me.
Some CM riders try to tie up traffic as much as possible and be otherwise confrontational with motorists. Such riders are missing the point about Critical Mass. CM is a celebration of cycling, not a war against motorists. CM is about asserting our right to the road, not denying others their right to the road. Those who want to play juvenile games are encouraged to stay at home instead.

Cheers

Naomi

I have an awesome idea guys!

2006-05-01T15:37:00.000-04:00

Get this:

How about every friday we get a large bunch of tree hugging hippies together and ride our bicycles all through the downtown core disrupting traffic and pissing other drivers off! And if anyone tries to stop us we can bust a few mirrors off eh!! We don't need to follow traffic laws! We are cyclists! We can do what we please!!

WHO'S WITH ME!!

2006-04-28T21:34:00.000-04:00

Flower Power Critical Mass Friday April 28

2006-04-26T17:50:00.000-04:00

THIS FRIDAY (APRIL 28)
FLOWER POWER CRITICAL MASS SPRING HAS SPRUNG

this friday, april 28, is critical mass.
meet at 5:30pm, leave at 6pm from Confederation Park (Elgin and Laurier).

suggested theme this month
is spring flowers: bring and share
bright flowers spring forth
streets full of biking skating
we roll together

come on out for a relaxing fun party
in your city streets. a comfortable ride for all riding
sensibilities, enjoy a safer riding experience with less cars,
as we temporarily displace the automobile and imagine
a healthier city. rain or shine

Theme inspired from March Vancouver Critical Mass. Above Poster inspired the theme. (notice one of the drivers has escaped the car and the rest are smiling)

Message from Bicycle Parking Guy

2006-04-26T17:49:00.000-04:00

To Whom It May Concern:

I would like to introduce myself, my name is Mike McCann. I am the manager for the Ottawa bicycling parking program. I am responsible for providing bicycle parking for the city’s cyclists, and from looking at your blog, you are a fellow bicyclist along with many of your followers. We can provide bicycle parking for the city by offsetting the cost of the racks by selling advertisements to local businesses. However; if a flyer is placed on the rack or graffiti then the business owner may not wish to continue. The overall effect of this would be a loss in the amount of bicycle parking provided to bicyclists, such as yourself. Therefore, I am kindly requesting that your group refrain from placing ads on the bicycle racks along Bank Street and Elgin Street and on any further bike racks for the reasons stated above.

If you wish to speak with me in person about this issue please do not hesitate to respond to this email.

Thank you and have a great meeting on Friday.

Best regards;
Mike McCann

Roommate needed for a bike friendly house!

2006-04-12T23:11:00.000-04:00

Hi Massers,

Three of us are moving into a house on May 1st and our fourth roommate just pulled out. So, if anyone is looking for a place for May 1st, or even June 1st, or knows someone who is, please let us know!

The house is on Flora. It's a four bedroom, with a large kitchen, full basement (for bikes!), laundry and small backyard. The rent is 350 each plus utilities (gas heating). We're in a one year lease, starting May 1st.

Call me or send me an email if you know someone who's looking or have questions. thanks!

Heather
521-3808
hhunter@connect.carleton.ca

Word to the wise

2006-04-03T03:27:00.000-04:00

hi there!

just a word to to the wise. i would not post the login info for this blog because someone could just come along and delete it. so to whoever runs this blog i think you should post the email address for the blog and set it up (settings->email) so that whatever is sent to that email gets published...

you should also encourage people to upload their images to flickr with a unique tag after they ride to make the community stronger.

just my two cents.

March Mass - Impressions & Pictures

2006-04-01T17:11:00.000-05:00

It was an unusally warm day for the March 31st ride, with the temperature going up to 20 in the afternoon. Rain was expected in the evening but still between 45-55 people showed up (I thought at least that many!) making it one of our best turn outs since November, and the rain didn't materialize until much later. The pictures I am posting are not the greatest, hopefully in the summer we will have better pictures when it's not so dark.

One of the highlights was doing a bike lift at Sussex and Rideau. (I didn't get a picture though) It was too short to really piss anyone off - they were too busy wondering what the hell we were doing. Very exhilarating. We did another one at Laurier and Elgin at the end of the ride.

We did venture into Vanier on Montreal road, though we turned around pretty quickly. Maybe next time we can go further, though if we could figure out how to spend less time on the same road (Rideau to Montreal) we might be able to avoid some of those crazy people that passed us on the wrong side of the street.

At the end we circled the fountain at Confederation.

Many of us headed over to 61 Argyle to share food and drinks after, which was a nice change from trying to cram into busy bars. Let's all make an effort to reach out to our friends and others in the community to make the next ride even bigger! Cheers, Naomi

March Critical Mass

2006-03-28T22:53:00.000-05:00

Feburary 24 Critical Mass

2006-02-22T22:17:00.000-05:00

This is a bicycle.

On Friday the 24th, the last Friday of February, find one to ride in Critical Mass!

Other notable options are skateboards and rollerskates (see below).

Bring yourselves and these human-powered transportation devices to Confederation Park at 5:30 pm.

The ride will leave at 6:00.

All are welcome!

Critical mass goes to parliament

2006-01-29T08:51:00.000-05:00

Citizens for Safe Cycling seeks input

2006-01-21T03:13:00.000-05:00

Hi, massers!

My name is Charles Akben-Marchand, and I am President of Citizens for Safe Cycling (CfSC). Many of you know me from parties on fifth street.

CfSC has been around since 1984, and we work to encourage and improve cycling as a mode of transportation.

Anyhoo, I would like it if someone (or if the group collectively) could write a review of the Critical Mass rides in Ottawa for our member newsletter, as we would like to solicit our members' opinions to create a position towards the rides. The deadline for the newsletter is February 1st, so if you want to get a review after this month's ride, you'd better do it quickly!

For your collective convenience, I have created a page on my friend Vic's Wiki ("Viki"), that you guys can use to discuss Critical Mass things or potentially write an article in a way that is more convenient than through Blogger.

There is plenty more informaiton on CfSC on Viki and on CfSC's website, and if you have any other questions or want to get involved with CfSC, you can e-mail me at president -at- cfsc.ottawa.on.ca.

Happy riding,

Charles Akben-Marchand
President
Citizens for Safe Cycling.

The Peoples Mass

2006-01-17T16:35:00.000-05:00

just some thoughts

The november mass was awsome, it was soo good to have so many people out there. I was just reflecting on it recently and thought maybe i would share. firstly every demo or event always has kinks to iron out and lessons to learn from, to me thats half the draw or participating. we may not see a dramatic rise in the amounts of bikes on the streets immedialtely but we can certainly see the change in and learn how to be sustainable in how we organize, and live together right away.

Some ideas might me, developing a regular format for the start of the each mass where a person (it could rotate) volunteered or is elected to be the facilitator of that fridays mass. They open the event welcome people, explain what it is, tell a joke, a piece of news for the day, share a note about safety, or a question etc. they ask the mass what area of town they want to ride in that night, and there is a show of hands or by volume where people want to go. They ask if we have some people who want to do corking tonight. Then we all head off.

In the streets, when the mass comes to a stop, because we don't know which direction to go, the facilitator holds a really brief street council where essentially you ask the mass to decide left or right, or perhaps if they want to head to another area. The facilitator does not get to vote they just offer up the question, to keep it unbiased. Take comfort in numbers if you have them, the street is yours own it, it happens all the time with accidents etc.

I also really liked the idea about puppets, and about being friendly even when you are blocking a vehicle. Its would be awsome to hand out pamphlets about bikes, or about critical mass.

Another thought was on media attention, once it gets rolling with consistent people we could definetly write press released and send them out to the media outlets, student papers etc. and newspapers. At that point it would be good to think about jail support or what happens if the police come as well.

Anyway these are just thoughts, keep up the good work.

Allan

December Mass

2005-12-31T15:22:00.000-05:00

This month we were four riders strong! The procession began at Confederation Park and I joined the riders on Elgin St. We rode two by two and took up the whole of a one-way street for about two blocks until we decided to get onto O'Connor St. and get honked at while riding one by one on the side of the road by cars. A good critical mass bike ride was in order. I started singing Frosty the Snowman but I forgot the words and my voice sort of trailed off. I started thinking how much I had been looking forward to another Critical Mass after the large group ride we had in November. The four of us spent the young night comparing reflective wear and blinky lights and then we each drank a couple pints. Rob certainly had the most visibility to other riders and cars with his plethora of lights and reflective tape. Then we made stops at our respective houses and got a bunch of food together. We rode to Mooney's Bay to Mitch's house and made a gigantic pot of chili with cheese and chips.
In the morning we discussed bikes and biking. Gwen suggested flyering bike handlebars with handbills for the January Mass. I have a poster at home that I need to tweak and mass produce for raising awareness of the ride. I also had some thoughts about what I planned to do as a member of the Bike Collective.
I was wondering why the turnout for Dec Crit Mass was so small. People were probably out of town, maybe some were busy with other plans or with family, and maybe some people were uninterested in coming out to another mass... maybe they were disappointed with some of the kinks in the previous ride? I hope that the next mass will be a "critical mass" and not just four hopeful bikers decked out in reflective garments eating chili. I was proud of the turnout and engergy of the November ride, I was looking forward to new chants, I was hoping for bike advocacy strategy and events. Let's all make this happen, Ottawa!

Sara Pishva
PISHVAatGMAILdotcom

pedestrians & puppets

2005-12-06T22:53:00.000-05:00

so i got told off by a pedestrian during critical mass and rightfully so as at some intersections we were treating them like jerks (read cars) and pretty much running them over. pedestrians deserve our repsect so hopefully the next opening bit can talk can include a reminder of that instead say the sexist shit. it would also be good to accomodate public transportation as cycling is not a choice for everyone.

oh and if anyone is up for some PUPPETS on WHEELS next time let me know
wallenergy@canada.com

steve

Who Should Cork?

2005-12-02T13:32:00.000-05:00

Recently I have noticed some comments about corking that I think, as a community, we should discuss. So here are my two cents, and I hope others will respond so we can reach some consensus before future rides.

The issue is, who should cork? Some people think it's safer if the experienced couriers take on this role, but I've been to many masses before where the idea is that everyone does it.

I think it's much LESS safe to only rely on only a few people because (1) having people ride from the front to the back at high speeds, at every intersection, is not safe - maybe it works in a pedestrian march but not for a bike ride, and (2) in terms of watching out for cars that could threaten the ride, more eyes are better. It's not as if we don't all do that everyday when we bike!

And frankly, cars are way less likely to get pissed and ram bikes if their corker is calm and smily, be they couriers or anyone else. If it appears that a certain group of people are corralling the whole ride, that gives the police and angry cars a focal point for their anger. If the corkers are always different, emerging from within the ride as necessary - how can they stop or get angry at that? It is more organic, more sustainable and stronger.

I'm not trying to bash couriers here, nor to promote a single image of them. I'm just saying that if the reason that we want couriers to cork is because we imagine that they fit into this certain stereotype (which they do not), and that stereotype is somehow better or safer to be doing ALL the corking at the ride, well I think that's wrong. But also let me say that those who did cork at the ride in November were generally very good and helpful so I'm not trying to aim any of these remarks at any individuals in particular.

This is not an issue of couriers vs. everyone else, it's an issue of people taking responsibility for the critical mass, and I believe it comes to the heart the ride's entire message - that it is not run by any one person or elite group of people, but owned by everyone. Everyone corking means we are all taking responsibility for the safety of the ride, and it is not complicated or difficult, anyone can learn how to cork just by watching. There may be some that choose not to do it regularly, but I think that, for safety, everyone should at least know how.

I welcome others to respond!

Naomi

Critical mass photos

2005-11-27T22:46:00.000-05:00

I was a first time participant at the mass last Friday. I had a great time. I was impressed by the attitude of the riders and the drivers and the positive responses we received.

I took a few photos of the ride, I hope to get a few of the oncoming riders in upcoming rides. I have brightened up the smaller images a touch as they had turned out dark. The original images can be found via the large links.

Ottawa Critical Mass November 25th 2005 Photos

A friend of mine noted we weren't sure whether to stop for pedestrians or not. I think we should, they have the right of way. However, this can cause confusion in the mass. It's a paradox! I think we can come up with some good ideas on how to deal with this. Any thoughts?

Keep spinning,
Rob Y.

postives, and a negative

2005-11-26T11:02:00.000-05:00

Hey, all

Last night was my first critical mass experience, and I just wanted to say that I had a great time. I think all the attention to safety was really great, as was the sharing and helping that happened beforehand to get everyone's bikes in darkness-appropriate riding shape! The experience overall was a pretty wholly positive one. I'm really looking forward to future rides and seeing more of everyone in the future!

Now, far be it from me to focus on the negative, but I just think it's important to address something that came up last night. I was extremely dismayed, and surprised, to hear the sexist comments made before the ride as we were assembled at Confederation Park. That is to say, the "messengers on the outside, girls and people who ride slower on the inside" remark. I missed the exact nuances of how it was phrased, but in any event- that's some serious bullshit, y'all.

Gender essentialism: the belief that due to circumstances of biology, men and women are "naturally" different in terms of character or ability.

As far as I can tell, gender essentialism has nothing to do with
a) being against cars
b) loving bikes

As far as I can tell, having a vagina doesn't determine whether
a) I am against cars
b) I love bikes
c) I should be able to feel comfortable in activist communities
d) I ride my bike slow or fast

As was said at the time- we're all here together because we're against cars. I'd like to think we're also all against misogynst garbage. There's no place for this kind of nonsense in a "movement" that's trying to make the world better. Thanks.

- Pamela

Tonight!

2005-11-25T11:33:00.000-05:00

Hi Ottawa Bikers.
I will be bringing lots of treats to Confederation Park. Day old muffins, mmmm...
Does anyone have reflective tape to bring and share?
I'll be on the lookout for noisemakers and whistles and bells today that we can all use, I hope others do the same.
-Sara P.

ottawa critical mass

Critical Mass Ottawa: Summer 2011 Edition

Ottawa Critical Mass 2011

Critical Mass in the news...

September Critical Mass

July Critical Mass

April Critical Mass

Critical Mass is Back!

November Critical Mass

Halloween Critical Mass 2009!

September Critical Mass

90% of cyclist deaths are caused by careless motorists.

Synchronized Cycling!

Let's ride bikes!

Spring Critical Mass 2009!

February Critical Mass

January Critical Mass: This Friday!

November Critical Mass

Halloween Critical Mass

September Critical Mass

Today is Critical Mass

Ever wonder how easy it is to steal a bike?

Critical Mass: This Friday!

Poland gets mega-highway for bikes

Critical Mass 1887

May Critical Mass

Last Friday of Every Month!

It's Earth Day!

Critical Mass: Spring 2008

Critical Mass: It's This Friday!

Berkeley's Bicycle Boulevards

Do you remember the month of September?

Critical Mass: Halloween Edition

Hintonburg Daily Mass

Critical Mass is This Friday!

Critical Mass This Friday!

Copenhagen: This is what's possible.

Confederation Park is CLOSED

Car and Commandments (Seriously)

Cars and Danger

McGuinty raises concerns after latest highway crash

*~ World Naked Bike Ride - Saturday ~*

May Critical Mass Photos

Today Is Critical Mass!

Who reads this Blog? And other administration issues

Animal Mass this Friday!

Cycle-Screening April 22: YOU NEVER BIKE ALONE

We are traffic

Article and Response About a Vancouver Film on Critical Mass (That I hope we can bring to Ottawa soon)

CM in 2 hours

Dogs on bikes

Fixed

Ottawa Critical Mass Flickr photo group

Facebook

Quiz

Critical Mass in a week

One for the scrapbook

Post your photos!

Mitch Brogan

Today is Car Free Day

CM August: press and police, oh my!

Critical Mass Friday 25 August

Dear Ottawa Police

Sharing Administration of Blog, ottawacriticalmass Email, DA Bike Collective Listserve

Bike Lift (and other July CM photos)

Address of Confederation Park

Psst ... Tomorrow is July Critical Mass

Planning August Critical Mass for Climate Justice

Tandem Bike Stolen

Tomorrow is SUPERHERO critical mass!

Trans Cycling Odyssey in Ottawa!!!

June 30 Superhero Critical Mass (or whatever you want to wear instead)

theme for june critical mass

World Naked Bike Ride Next Saturday!

Isn't riding naked uncomfortable?

Do I have to ride a bike?

Do I have to ride naked? Can I participate clothed or top-free?

What if I'm not thin, young, conventionally attractive, or have scars on my body etc?

What does it feel like to ride nude?

Why would anybody embrace public nudity?

~ World Naked Bike Ride - Saturday ~