Thread started by lackflag at 11.20.10 - 7:18 pm

Hi alexdc,

I think you are correct in pointing out that running reds and the COD are taboos that illicit a very emotional responce from motorists. Of course many everyday motorist behaviors that endanger cyclists illicit an evan stronger emotional reaction from cyclists. I fully understand that one of the goals of LACM is to LOUDly proclaim to motorists that WE ARE HERE and we DEMAND that you acknowledge us. The goal is good, the message is right, the manner in which it is made however is counterproductive.

In my opinion the best way for LACM to impact the car culture of LA and effect a paradign shift is not to ride in a large MASS but to ride period. Some folks have suggested that all you need for a Critical Mass is 1 or 2 cyclists asserting thier right to a lane. Can you imagine the impact of 2000 cyclists riding in groups of 10-20 going in all directions on dozens of different streets simultaneously? A motorist traveling down one street sees this...and when he turns onto another he sees another group....than another...than another. The same motorist sees cyclists all night long and not just for a few minutes as part of a passing group (like now).

Not only do they see these groups of cyclists they see them following the rules of the road, only taking the right lane of traffic (thereby sharing the road), and basically interacting with them the way they should every day of the week?

What an impact that would make!

Of course not all participate in LACM for political reasons so social change may not be a goal...but if it were...





Sgt. David Krumer
responding to a comment by alexdc
11.20.10 - 9:34 am