Originally Posted by oldsprinter
I reported on a CM ride for a small Sydney newspaper about 12 years ago - riders blocked a street in Newtown. What many people there didn't see was that a group of riders refused to let an ambulance with its lights flashing pass through. It was hard to see the event as great for increasing awareness of cyclists when that sort of thing happens.
Yeah, I believe that sort of thing can happen but as with drivers the outcome of a situation depends on the individuals involved. I was at a Critical Mass ride in Chicago where the group was slowly filtering through the Milwaukee/Damen/North Ave. intersection, one that is known for its gridlock. An ambulance rolled up with its lights on and within seconds a path was cleared and the ambulance went on its way. I somehow doubt that would have happened as quickly if the intersection was filled with cars as it usually is.
I think Critical Mass has potential but it also attracts the type of people who want to make trouble for no reason.