I have been out of town for a few days and while I could not
send any emails I have been able to monitor the lively conversation concerning Critical
Mass rides. Sincere, honest, and polite exchanges of views are always welcome
among members. Please keep to those guidelines.
The Cycling Club?s Board of Directors has not taken up
this issue and I can only express opinions that are mine alone. Motorist?s
perception of cyclists will of course contribute to shaping their driving
habits while around us. They are not a group I would like to antagonize.
?He had the right of way? is not what I would like my epitaph to
read. I have never participated in a Critical Mass ride but a little
investigation shows that many of the points are with a great deal of merit.
Different conduct is present on different rides, some have been very law abiding
and peaceful however a great many have not. Web sites such as ?Critical-Mass.
Info? and ?critical-mass.org?, encourage
cyclists to break the law. The idea of only blocking 3 lanes of a four
lane highway is put forth as an example of being considerate of
motorists. Even one of our pro Critical Mass members has said that ?conflict
is inevitable?. In my opinion this is not the best way to get a
valid point across, especially to people that quite literally hold our lives in
their hands. Surely there are better and more accepted ways to make a
point. I believe if we as a group act more considerately we will be
treated more considerately.
Again, the Gainesville Cycling Club has taken no official
position on this issue and these opinions are my own.
Bob Newman,
President
Gainesville Cycling Club
