The Blizzard of 2005 - Critical Mass

01-23-2005, 05:53 AM

As I sit here watching the Blizzard of 2005 in the Northeast, I wonder
if I should have purchased a snowmobile instead of a bicycle. I can
count on my fingers how many times I have been able to ride that bike
since October.

I have to go into NYC tomorrow (work related) and I can't even imagine
trying to park.

I am always reading about the NYC bicycle commuters...I know Critical
Mass started in San Francisco where people commute all year round.
They never have to give up months of riding because of weather
conditions.

Who could give up their car and commute by bicycle in NYC? I am trying
to understand Critical Mass as I am thinking of becoming a supporter. I
might try one of the Moonlight Rides in Central Park. (Next one in
February, weather permitting). I want to understand Critical Mass
before I become a supporter. It seems that there are passionate people
on both sides of the fence.

It also seems NYC has the most problems when they organize a ride. A
friend of mine was hurt on a critical mass ride in NYC. He lives and
works there. I am trying to figure out if Critical Mass is a good
thing or comprised of extremists of this sport. As we know, there are
extremists in everything and I try to support efforts that are within
the boundaries of at least "slightly realistic."

Maggie