Critical Mass Pictures and Stories

dublin | rights, freedoms and repression | news report Wednesday March 31, 2004 15:03 by Rory mckevitr at vodafone dot ie

Cyclists gathered

A small report on the first Critical Mass of the Year, 26th of March 2004. Contains a few pictures and a description of the event.

Gathering At The Garden Of Rememberance

The first Critical Mass of the year kicked off well on Friday gone, the 26th of March. The weather was mild but the evening slightly dark. There was an encouraging amount of cyclists out for the start of what promises to be an even better year for the critical massers and fun loving cyclists. One can imagine that the Mayday cycle (30 April) will be a big event which will draw in many more cyclists and most likely more attention and noise!
The route taken was a mixture of busy streets and quiet enough back streets. Two Gardai accompanied us on bicycles. Although it would seem they were not enjoying themselves! Shame but as usual there was no trouble and all had an enjoyable cruise around our city. At one stage 3 members of the same family cycled with us; the father, his wife and his daughter. Good to see
The spirit and friendliness of the cyclists is very apparent. For example I had purchased a fairly wrecked bicycle ( but as with most bicycles it has a lot of potential) from the Garda bicycle auction the previous day, complete with original locks and buckles.. As I attempted to create this run down bike into an almost roadworthy bicycle I was not having much luck. Yet I received the assistance I needed to stick in a new tube and get the critical mass out of the old banger. Thanks to the help of a stranger. Always a helpful hand or tool at this gathering (not protest) of cyclists. So put down Friday the 30th of April in your diaries for what is a worthwhile hour of your Friday evening. Of course if you also have time do sample a pint, juice etc in Conway’s afterwards.

Stopping For the Lights

Cruising

Darkness descends but well light cyclists brighten the roads