Critical Mass & Recent Seattle Events

Many of our constituents have undoubtedly heard something about the altercation that occurred during the June, 2006 Critical Mass ride in Seattle. If you haven't, more information can be found here.

Critical Mass, for the uninitiated, is a civil protest where bicyclists assert their right to congest roads - as vehicles do. It is done on the last Friday of every month in cities all over the world.

As with all protest activities, its participants run the risk of being cited for violating various laws and ordinances. Further, as an open and largely leaderless event the composition and conduct of the group can vary from very friendly and orderly to aggressive and conflict-oriented.

One of the more significant risks run by Critical Mass participants is the potential to "set off" an unstable motorist. The "car-nage" a road rage incident could leave in its wake would be stupefying to say the least.

Details are still coming to light in the Seattle incident with three King County Sheriffs, so Cascade has no official position at this time.

On the subject of Critical Mass, Cascade supports the right of cyclists to assemble and ride whenever and wherever they choose. However, we do not condone violating traffic codes or ordinances.

Update (7/27/06):
Critical Mass cyclists will not be charged: Seattle PI