15 Years Of Critical Mass

"What began with four dozen bicyclists riding together up Market Street on Sept. 25, 1992, has turned into a monthly happening that regularly draws thousands of participants pedaling along the streets of San Francisco, at times drawing both praise and scorn."

"The monthly Critical Mass rides are part political statement and part roving street festival and now are firmly part of San Francisco's cultural fabric."

"Critical Mass has no organized leadership. The rides are promoted by word of mouth and over the Internet. The only constant is that they are held the last Friday of the month and start around 6 p.m. at Justin Herman Plaza at the foot of Market Street. The routes are fluid, often determined on the spot."

"The rides on occasion have erupted into clashes - some verbal, some physical - involving cyclists, police, motorists and politicians. But they also have served to raise awareness that the streets are not just for the benefit of the private automobile."

"In the past 15 years, bicycling has become less of a fringe movement in San Francisco and more, well, middle of the road. The city now has 126 miles of designated bike lanes and paths, and commercial developers are required to provide secure bike parking. Muni buses are equipped with bike racks."