Monday, November 2, 2009

Critical Mass

So for a long time (being the time since I moved to sf) I didn't understand what Critical Mass is/was/could be.

I understand that people ride their bikes as a means of transportation. Good for you. There are also people who walk and ride transit.

But why does critical mass feel the need to inconvenient those who are contributing to the greater good of the rest of san francisco?

Example #1 - walking down 2nd street to watch my bus. Not in any hurry. In fact, at this point you can think of me as someone who walks to work. The white man appears on the other side of the street and I can't cross. I try. And try. And the second that I put my foot in the street I need to retract it within second to avoid being run over by a bike.

Now I understand that they are trying to prove a point, or that @ a point in their history they were attempting, but seeing them act a fool made me loose all respect to them.

Red lights aren't only for cars, they are for anyone using the traffic lane. And to add to it, if they want more respect shouldn't they act more respectful?

Example#2 - finally on the bus, ridding down market to get to the cable car. Not rare when I stay at work late...

I get on the bus after weaving through cyclist only to have the attack all lanes of market. Again, I think I understand their quest, but why punish those who are ridding the bus. Maybe some of us don't know how to ride a bike. Or don't have a place to store one. Or for whatever reason they just don't ride a bike. Are we muni riders supposed to suffer and not be able to get home because of the bus people?

I wish someone could explain to me the point behind riding around san francisco and causing hell for everyone. I see that they are trying to make a point but maybe if they were more vocal about their cause or nicer to people they might get more respect.
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