Whats up with Ridazz, Am I wrong?
Thread started by
md2 at 11.11.06 - 3:41 pm
Not sure what happened when I first posted this, but I wanted to get some feedback on what you all think.
Since the transition with organizers, it seems that MR has been less fun or whatever....
Why the transiton occured has always been a ??? but it seems like the OG's had some conceptual issues with how the rides occur and what they envisioned. we saw the futile attempt to implement rules/suggestions....(rememeber the stay to the right 2x2 buddy ride). All failed and I guess they felt responsible for whatever occurs on this ride, because they started (which is wrong).
Though all the suggestions were well meaning and intended to protect riders and ease some person(s) mind...I think the reality of the ride is that: corking will/should occur, we can/will take up lanes and most debated, yet easily understood...riders will fight with drivers.
No big deal...
Yet we all hear the pseudo-psyche students, mention the "mob-mentality"...and thats the only reason riders act tough. Hmmmm, what mentality are drivers acting from? Do they suppose all other drivers will back them up? I never expect other riders to back me up...I think we should, but in general if you grow up in the surounding areas you know whats up, but this is the individuals fault not the organizers (we're not 12, though we can act that way, which we're entitled).
Anyhow, so we got fed all this stuff about the rides getting too big and that little rides are more fun, so start your own, etc....
I think thats true. Small rides with friends are more intimate....but Ridazz brings out more hot chicks than my rides, so Im a little partial to our monthly meeting. (i think bi-monthly now)
I think thats what confused me the most....this was only once a month...why was it such a significant issue for the organizers then and now?
Then other issues arose that had me question the legitimacy of their struggle:
1. The pier ride. Get there how you can. Im not an organizer, but Im fairly aware of the people who do MR. These are hardly commuters nor hardcore riders. Some only ride for MR. So people claimed to be so concerned and worried, yet they felt comfortable enough to encourage people to fend for themselves on the L.A. streets (the safest of all). Thats cool...Id didnt like the idea anyway.
2. No corking + bad neighborhoods =: this sort of bugged me. When you know that no corking will break up the ride and you dont want to wait for other riders, dont plan a route through semi-bad or bad locations, especially where people are more territorial and or you already know drivers get mad. Why leave people who dont know L.A. streets, stranded on them? I think you get my point on this: we should stick together.
3. Day of the Dead Ride: Come on! who decided the route? Either it was a pretentious rider(s) or someone who just didnt give a shit about the people who ride. the ride got so broken up and so many turned back, it was like what the fuck? Nobody was excited, I saw more people panting, waiting for the hills to end. Im not retarded...if I know my friends ride beach-cruisers, bmx, or are old...Im going to make sure I included them in my route planning. This ride catered to people who ride regularly or just persons commited to finishing rides. We know who shows up...what are we trying to do in breaking up these rides.
In think I wrote enough (too much)....
Look Ridazz is great in its frequency and no disrespect...I appreciate the organizers faithfulness. Many persons are being turned off because they dont feel safe anymore....
I think we need to remember what the ride is and what can actually be accomplished. We cant create rules, etc...you can suggest shit, but dont feel responsible if people dont listen, they are grown. We need to try to keep the ride together and show people that we really do care about them and that we have them "in mind".
I could be wrong.
Mrkd
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Nobody really gives a shit about what somebody else thinks, you put it out there and go on.
There are plenty of other rides out there and natural selection will occur. I personally am beginning to enjoy my solitary rides more and more after going on a few of these many rolling parties on wheels.
Its tough planning a route, and you can't please everybody. If you don't like it, move on, or whine and complain, make enough noise and get involved and orchestrate a change whatever, I gave up a long time ago trying to change peoples minds, they're going to do what they want to do. And if you don't think "mob mentality" is running the show on these rides, well good luck.
Newbies keep coming out of the woodwork, which I guess isn't surprising for a city of this size but I don't know how they hear of these rides, I don't think its from the internet though.
dave11.11.06 - 4:50 pm
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In response to Ridazz getting turned off, I saw more Ridazz last night than have been at Midnight Ridazz in a long time.
also I loved the route, i fell 4 miles behind fixing my camera and was able to catch up. thats why there are 2 stops along the way. the pace was pretty fast this time and The total route was about 27 miles so sure plenty of people were tired. But from the large amount of people i talked to which was well over a 100, they were super stoked about the ride, hills, experience. Especially since the route had very little traffic.
As for Midnight Ridaaz OG, There are so many people with a vision of how the rides should be, and thats why this website exists so you can create your own Midnight Riddazz rides.
And for Safety, I never feel safe on my bike.
Also check out Ride Arc, its sweet, a tight group, smaller and always together. If one person gets a flat everybody stops.
studiodrome11.11.06 - 4:57 pm
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I dont expect people to change...nor do I think people will stop going...i was refering to what seemed to be a change in rides.
I remember rides being more interested in keeping the group together...which was fun because we were able to stop ang mingle, drink, etc....
It tought with a 1000 plus. But when you have checkpoints and shit, it helps people get back with friends etc....
I just dont think the ride is about the group anymore.
I do think mob mentality exists, I dont think its the driving force in MR. People are excited...I gaurantee if I get in fight with a driver, there are more people that will break up the fight, than those that will jump in. We're not there to fight...some people just feel safe talking shit, just as drivers feel safe talking shit from their cars.
Im not trying to diss the ride...one of my main questions, which probably didnt come across well, was: do you think the rides are different now? That they use to be something more united, in terms of the group? For me those were the most fun. I thought that was the shock value for pedestrians/driver/ and us. Seeing everyone together, not just in the beginning.
Anyhow...I thnk we need to support the ride(s) and each other....I look forward to various themes, etc....
Take care and be cool...and if you can, be sexy (i believe you).
md2
md211.11.06 - 5:43 pm
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I guess no one really disagreed yet in this thread, but I think corking is definitely an important part of the ride in terms of keeping everyone together and safe. Having cars in the middle of the pack SUCKS! And I definitely hate when a sweet group of 400 gets whittled down to 15 because everyone starts getting so spread out.
monovsstereo11.11.06 - 6:02 pm
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With huge rides like the "La Noche" ride last night, people are bound to get split up. It was a long route, but who cares? If you are a hard rider you'll finish the whole ride from start to finish. If not, then you split off whenever you want. I consider myself a fairly strong rider, but I decided to stay back and try to keep people together and make sure they didn't miss a turn.
Oh, and my dad is 52 and was riding a cruiser last night... he finished the whole ride.
The organizer of each ride pretty much has no power if people want to speed off and split from the back of the pack, and thats where "mob rule" comes in. If a small group of people decide they want to take off, then its gonna happen no matter what.
Be happy that you live in LA because there are A TON of different rides to suit your taste.
Mr. Raymond11.11.06 - 6:14 pm
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My experience with organizing the Riot on Sunset, Pajama Party, and the Horror ride, is that it is a lot of work. Those rides only had about 200 people on them. I know that I did feel a certain sense of responsibility for the welfare of the ride.People are going to do what they want, but there are also people who place a certain level of trust.
I agree there was a shift. I think the shift took place when the Ridazz I know were like hey, we need help, it's getting to big. Another Rida I know told me about a ride he kept the rear on and said it sucked, and had to change like 10 flats in the first couple of miles. I think it just is becoming to much for the few who are willing to put in the work.
My personal belief is this, if you believe corking is necessary and more safe, a strong rider, it's your responsibility to do it. If only a quarter of the group would cork a couple of times, it would not be such a burden.
The same goes for helping riders with flats and such.
I think everyone should have their turn in organizing.
MR is getting more and more attention from people in LA and the media. The cops are all over it. I think unless we consciously decide as a group to have safe, directed/organized rides, something bad will happend and legistration and or law enforcement will intervene. I don't want LA to become Manhatten. I like the freedom to ride where ever I wish.
I also don't like when drivers are beligerent or when ridazz are beligerent with drivers. My experience is so much better when people are smiling. I think being patient with those who don't understand will get us there.
I thought the ride last night was one of the best yet. My legs still hurt!
From the pole, most people want the rides to be between 20 and 25 miles.
Oh well, my 2 cents.
Anyone have an extra spoke card, I fucking lost mine.
anonymitytheif11.11.06 - 6:19 pm
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i enjoyed the ride last night but my only comment would be that on several occasions i overheard a bunch of people complaining while going thru intersections that "someone needs to be corking etc" but they themselves not doing anything about it. not sure if these are first timers or not but if you see a ride getting split up or an intersection that needs to be corked...then cork it!
93mm11.11.06 - 6:26 pm
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Here are a couple of solutions to the grouping problem:
1) 3 packs. Beginner, Novice, Speed-Racer. Each group is led by at least 4 experienced riders. Beginners take off at 9:30. Novices take off at 10:00. Speed-Racers take off at 10:30. After each stop we split up the take off time by 30 minutes as well, or maybe 20 or 15. Whatever works.
2) Create 2 Similar routes. One complete route and one route with shortcuts for people to catch up. The strong riders will go the complete route and the people who are at the back of the pack for whatever reason have the option of cutting ahead.
What does ya'll thank?
Mr. Raymond11.11.06 - 6:42 pm
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splitting the start for slow medium and advanced is a great idea.
it's really going to come down to some issues of obeying traffic laws guys like it or not... there are several ways that rides will get cut down and the worst way is the way it went down in manhattan in which the cyclists got the entire city to work against them and lost any hope for support in resisting the laws that restrict group rides.
Roadblock11.11.06 - 6:47 pm
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Thanks for adressing my question(s)...
Im all for obeying laws...to an extent.
Maybe Im a little too philosophically motivated with MR. I think it can really express a tension that occurs in city-life.
When you're poor, struggling, young, etc...what do you "have". the very city you pay rent/ taxes, etc...is policed, over-run by vistors, catered to tourists, the wealthy, etc....
Thats all good...they help the city thrive, if this is how we want it to thrive.
However, once a month (strictly speaking about MR), we in a way take back L.A. We show our presence and give our middle-finger to certain laws, the overpowering traffic (who by the way do the same to us, 29+ days a month) and just have fun.
What is life about? What are we supposed to do in our city? Do we just work, spend and sleep?
I started riding BMX as a kid like most riders. At 12 I started my first job working at pro triathlon bike shop (back when dave scott/ mark allen/ greg lemond were my heros).... I did triatholons, MTB, etc...it was great. I had so much fun.
I got into drugs, stopped riding...and here Iam many years later, not caring to race or anything, but just commute and f-around.
Those who grew up with cycling know that there are so many elements to the sport. I dont consider every rider a cyclist nor commuter.
Yet what happens when we get together? Its not about our history, skills, speed, knowledge, bike, who knows who, etc.
I think the rawness whether people see it or not, is that this is how they want to live: free. Let me enjoy the streets I see everyday. Let me just fucking ride my bike without some rich fuck acting ike he owns the road...tonight I own it. The truth is..I dont. So there is something psychological going on, but I think MR is what is missing in the city--a place, an event, for people to go to where they can have fun, be safe, be friendly, and not spend a dime.
Where else?
This is my fear...in losing MR. I could careless to fix the supposed "mob mentality" and people talk about it as if they really know what they mean...let alone if it is even real psychology (or if psyschology is real for that matter). Im not interested in obeying traffic laws, except when Im riding alone or in smaller group
****I only think corking should be done with MR****
If you want corking to stop...then wait for other riders...we cant please all, but Ive been in the front and have asked people to stop...many dont care. We need check points. People come to be with the group and I come to be with them.
The authorities wont stop this....this is L.A. not Manhattan....they cant patrol everywhere. Plus our congestion is very small and insigniifcant compaired to an NY street. Ive received a ticket on a ride, Im not blaming the organizers.
I mean come on guys...this is just a day or two out of the month...we should be free and the truth is, people are being safe.
Just ride...for one night...and lets do it together...
Plus...when the ride gets broken up, it implys that not all the girls are around me...this cannot be allowed.... I demand change.
md2
md211.11.06 - 8:58 pm
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I love the shortcut idea. That was one of the cool things about the Pier ride. When we met up at Trader Joe's I felt like a soldier in the Red Army closing the pincers around Stalingrad.
DuckLionDog11.11.06 - 8:59 pm
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Thief,
I've got one of each of the four types of spoke cards from last night. I'll be at Sins n Sprockets and probably the 50s ride as well and I'll have a card for you.
Mr. Raymond11.11.06 - 8:59 pm
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Corking is good and bad. If you cork for a couple minutes and the motorists are patient, fine. If you're corking for 10 minutes or more, their patience runs thin.
I saw a dude last night that was sooooooooo dedicated to stopping the cars that he decided to stop one of them while they were in the path of our right lane which created more of a problem for his fellow riders. No need to stop a motorist while they are blocking our path... let them go. After that he went ahead and hit the car. Thats just bad news.
Sometimes certain ridazz want to be confrontational for the hell of it.
Mr. Raymond11.11.06 - 9:12 pm
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MD2,
you are not wrong. MR has changed, and there are some things that need to be fixed. My understanding of MR was it was be designed to be:
safe, inclusive, fun and a way of promoting and experiencing LA bike culture.
Last night people (lots of people) got separated from the pack and we're riding without the safety of a group through heavy car-traffic areas and through potentially unsafe parts of town.
I think separating into fast/medium and slow groups is a HORRIBLE idea. The whole point of the ride is riding together with a massive group of people and meeting new folks.
The more the group stays together -- even 1000 people -- the easier corking is. Also, last night's ride went down alot of heavily driven streets -- Griffith Park Blvd., Sunset, Ceasar Chavez, etc. -- the more time the routes spend on smaller side streets the easier dealing with cars is.
Lastly, it sounds like folks posting on here want to show they're hardcore. If you can ride 30mph uphill on a fixie you built out of clay, that is awesome. But, MR is not about being hardcore -- it's about fun and being together -- you have 30 other nights a month to be hardcore.
I think MR should return to some old standbys:
*Keep the group together.
*Stop more frequently
*Cork.
*Shorter routes on smaller streets
*Be hardcore on another night.
'No ridazz left behind' is the ethic and when it's there the 'helping out' vibe is infectious. It becomes a community on wheels and it feels incredible -- which is why we all get so passionate about it -- every ride should aim for that feeling.
blackbike11.11.06 - 11:13 pm
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I think 2 pitstops last night was the perfect amount. The bridge stop probably wasn't the best logistical point, but definitely an awesome stop in other ways. Anyway, I think 1 stop every 10 miles or so is about all that is needed, but I wholeheartedly agree with corking and trying to keep the party together.
monovsstereo11.11.06 - 11:28 pm
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As far as splitting up groups of riders into different groups goes, I doubt that will work. Most people don't want to admit they are slow, or are not in shape. This is especially true with males when amongst females. If the different group idea was to work, it would have to work on its own. This is normally accomplished by a natural "pecking order" being established, where faster riders naturally move towards the front and all other riders fall into place where their speed, endurace and skill situate them. I noticed at the stops Friday night where a lot of the slower riders moved towards the front of the pack only to be quickly passed after a restart. This is one of the charms of the Midnight Ridazz because everyone gets to ride with everyone. It kind of forces the issue and the more experienced riders should (yeah, should) have no problem weaving their way through slower or less skilled riders. If they can walk and chew gum at the same time, they should be able to ride and converse at the same time (unless on a friggin' smell phone).
Just my $.02
Jeronimo11.12.06 - 12:13 pm
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hi. corking is bad. corking is necessary. corking will be subject to debate as long as there are mass rides. so what can you do? implement rules? Laws already exist that state corking (blocking traffic and running red lights) is illegal. There really is nothing you can do when people feel empowered to do what they feel like doing. Add certain elements, such as mob mentality, then individual judgment can get hindered. What can you do? Send everyone that rides to an education camp? That'll never happen. We live in a state the re-elected Arnold as Governer. My point? In general, people make bad decisions. En masse, bad decisions magnify and results with accidents & incidences. What can you do?
I only have ONE suggestion for future MR rides. Have the Start and the End be the same place. MR has mass appeal, and for many, MR will be their first time going more than a couple miles.
the reverend dak11.12.06 - 12:15 pm
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I spent a great deal of time and submitted my opinion,maybe it was something I said, Is there censorship on here?
I went on and on how MR is a kickass,social way to tune the spirit along with 1000 strangers.
How we need to compromise for the greater cause of the ride..
My suggestion was :
HAve two acceptable ending spots on the course.
Fisrt stop = Where we all end up and collude to show that we are all on the same team and all those that can not keep going for different reasons can end there "guilt free" because it is accepted that not all ridazz can go the 25- 27 mile ride
We say our goodbyes
Second stop= all those that can keep riding will mount up ride as the second group to second spot.
This will lessen the amount of ridazz that:
1) randomly drop of cause they cant make the whole ride
2)turn back
3) most important- will keep the different types of riders coming back to the MR which we all look forward to.This would not discourage those that want to keep riding but can not do a 30 mile ride.
All about keeping it together. I personally enjoy riding with 1000 strangers that you would not hang out with on a normal scenario.
Slow ones,fast ones, in shape, out of shape,getting in shape.
Strangers yet we all feel we belong when we ride every second Friday of the month.
deesimple11.12.06 - 2:04 pm
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This was only my 3rd MR, so I'm still a newbie. I really enjoy the rides but I think that a couple of points here are important from a newbie's perspective.
1st, there were a lot of hills on this last ride, I mean a lot of long hills. I ride a chopper/cruiser, and while I can make the hills it isn't the most pleasant thing in the world. I'm not saying to completely avoid hills, but just go easy on them.
2nd, the whole reason I come to the MR's is to ride in a group, I don't think that the rides should be split or have different endpoints. That defeats the whole purpose of what attracts me to the MR's in the first place.
3rd, I live in west LA, so I have to drive to the startpoint (my bike won't fit on a bus rack). This means that it is very convenient to end in the same place that I started, I'm sure that other people who have to drive agree.
This is just my 2 cents, not demands, not whining, just suggestions from my POV.
tathagata11.12.06 - 5:45 pm
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censorship? did something get deleted?
Roadblock11.12.06 - 7:39 pm
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I posted a comment yesterday yet I can't find it...I dont think I took that many pain killers.
Altough, I am convinced that there is a technical explanation..my first tought was " Was the MR site having bugs"
No harm done ..
Im glad to see all you posting your opinions..its great.
deesimple11.12.06 - 8:00 pm
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wow really? as a far as I know I'm the only one able to delete. what did the comment say? maybe it was a glitch... but highly unlikely... the only thing I deleted recently was a guy who accidently posted a new comment instead of a reply and asked in the thread that it should be deleted... I dont believe in censorship unless there is something really offensive like something overtly racist or sexist....
Roadblock11.12.06 - 8:14 pm
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In response to the driva to ridazz, I drive in from behind the Orange Curtain to attend. When a ride does not end at the same point it began at, you basically have two choices. You can ride back to your vehicle at the end of the ride, or arrive early and ride to the start point from the ending point when those points are published. It's that easy and CARmically correct to ride the extra miles because you drove to get there. As far as your bike goes, hunt around a few garage sales and pick up an old Schwinn 5-speed, fix it up and ride it for the next 50 years. Leave the cruiser for the flat Ridazz events and the beach bike paths. The coolest bikes are the ones that get you from point A to Point B without smoking you.
Jeronimo11.12.06 - 8:39 pm
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I think from now on it might be wisest to post routes ahead of time using gmap pedometer. just for the second fridays. the other rides can do as they choose but for second fridays lets publish the route from now on what ya think?
Roadblock11.12.06 - 9:04 pm
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forgot to mention, gmap pedometer has an elevation grid for the route. that should help to inform the vertically challenged Ridazz, infact that could help trhem plan and discuss alternate shortcut routes.
Roadblock11.12.06 - 9:11 pm
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That's what i figured and I agree with your policy on comments.
Thanksfor caring Bro
deesimple11.12.06 - 9:18 pm
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no problem and congrats to all you guys on planning a really thoughtful ride. any chance you could post up a better (non fuzzy ) shot of that last spoke card? people were mobbing me for those things!
Roadblock11.12.06 - 9:27 pm
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Well, one argument against preposting the route is that if the lapd is monitoring this site, preposting might ensure that we have a constant police presence wherever we are. Of course there's nothing preventing them from tagging along currently and I'm probably just being too paranoid maybe.
I don't know, maybe some ridazz might feel more secure with a police escort. I'm sure the LAPD would appreciate it if we pre-posted routes.
Also pre-posting allows people to make suggestions on the route. Others like surprises...
dave11.12.06 - 10:26 pm
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Well whoever is doing the ride could simply post elevation stats and the distance from the finish to the start without giving away the actual route.
monovsstereo11.12.06 - 10:37 pm
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I've always liked the "surprise" of the route and consider it one of the hallmarks of the Ridazz experience, although I think publishing the end point of the ride is helpful information to have in planning one's evening. I always ride to & from the ride, but maybe I'm lucky; I live in Echo Park.
For those that find the the rides are long or hilly, all I can say is, keep riding, ride more, push yourself just a little and you'll quickly get stronger. Heck, I'm almost as old as Mr. Raymond's dad!
mr rollers11.12.06 - 10:46 pm
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I'm a little tired of all the whining about the route. It was a great ride and the hills were short. I am out of shape, but getting much better due to riding MR the last six months. I have even started riding to work once or twice a week - that wouldn't have happened without MR. Yes, I fall behind - but I don't stop and rest for more than 10 minutes to get a head start. I still finish near the middle of the pack and I can't say that I'm pushing myself that hard. I am a turtle, not a hare - and I love the rides. I am going to put my head down and push through and not get off of my bike for any fucking hill. I think its strange that I can push through a ride and riders that are 20 years younger and 100 pounds lighter are complaining. MR is more mental than physical - don't change the rides to pacify a few.
wozzeck4211.12.06 - 11:03 pm
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Dear dave,
In regards to:
"2. No corking + bad neighborhoods =: this sort of bugged me. When you know that no corking will break up the ride and you dont want to wait for other riders, dont plan a route through semi-bad or bad locations, especially where people are more territorial and or you already know drivers get mad. Why leave people who dont know L.A. streets, stranded on them? I think you get my point on this: we should stick together."
When you say bad neighborhood I suppose you mean those lacking Starbucks. And yes, on Friday we did ride down many streets without a Starbucks. From my experience of riding in massive rides over the years, the Eastside, South LA, the Nickel, (and other places where real people can be found) has always been the most receptive to us. Think of all the people waving, cheering us on, mariachis playing for us. It is when we head to the Westside that people get territorial, I think of all the hollywood wannabes going out to clubs, who think roads are only for their Rangerover, and want to run us down. I think you get my point on this: Some of us should try to ride into other neighborhoods more often.
TAR11.12.06 - 11:47 pm
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"When you say bad neighborhood I suppose you mean those lacking Starbucks. And yes, on Friday we did ride down many streets without a Starbucks. From my experience of riding in massive rides over the years, the Eastside, South LA, the Nickel, (and other places where real people can be found) has always been the most receptive to us. Think of all the people waving, cheering us on, mariachis playing for us. It is when we head to the Westside that people get territorial, I think of all the hollywood wannabes going out to clubs, who think roads are only for their Rangerover, and want to run us down. I think you get my point on this: Some of us should try to ride into other neighborhoods more often."
what TAR said!
Roadblock11.13.06 - 12:25 am
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Wozzeck,
Amen brother! Its not only about riding and having fun, but getting into better shapel. Keep riding and your complaints will disappear. Ride! Ride! Ride!
Oh, and I've got the laminator in case someone needs it.
Mr. Raymond11.13.06 - 12:41 am
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Raymond can I grab that from you? you gonna be at rite aid tomorrow?
Roadblock11.13.06 - 12:50 am
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to wozzeck42,
I totally agree with you. Midnight Ridazz is more Mental than Physical. If you are a total tourist to Los Angeles and have no idea where you are, map or a compass will do. Also if its your first ride in a long time or you're totally out of shape chug water instead of beer.
I'm also down with what Mr. Rollers says, and down with what Tar says.
and to conclude...
Midnight Ridazz isnt Disneyland, you're not going on the Space Mountain ride every visit. If you're scared, ask someone for help.
if you're not having fun, snort some coke and pass along. If you are not meeting enough people, bring a megaphone. if you cant make a hill hang onto a seat post.
studiodrome11.13.06 - 1:33 am
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I THINK YOU'RE ALL MISSING THE POINT! NO RIDA LEFT BEHIND!!! I DID MY PART BY LEADING A GROUP OF RIDAZZ TO THE MERCADO AND GIVING THEM DIRECTIONS ON HOW TO GET BACK.NO THANKS TO THAT GUY WHO WOULDN'T GIVE ME A SPOKE CARD BECAUSE I DIDN'T BUY HIS FUCKING SHIRT!!!! I STILL MANAGED TO RIDE THE ROUTE WITH MY THIRTEEN YEAR OLD SON AND STILL HAD A GREAT FUCKING TIME!!!SO THERE'S MY WHINE AND TAKE THE GOOD WITH THE BAD AND RIDE ON,MIDNIGHTRIDAZZ FOREVER!!!!
fixxed111.13.06 - 7:16 am
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That was my fault he didn't hand you a spoke card. I was the guy selling the shirts and I told him those specific cards were for people who had shirts. Sorry about that. I'm going to try to hunt down some more spoke cards. Anybody have some?
No rida left behind is nearly impossible with thousands of people, especially when only a select few are willing to help out. I was at the back of the pack from State St. to the Mercado because I was literally pushing a girl along while riding next to her. She was having a tough time!
No rida left behind can only go so far because we can't push every single person along the way. Its their duty to ride stronger as they become more experienced.
Next ride I'm going to tie a rope to my bike and tow people like duckliondog suggested.
Mr. Raymond11.13.06 - 8:30 am
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dear dave?
I scrolled back up through the messages and it wasn't me.
I think I've been to starbucks maybe twice in my life. I don't like paying three bucks or whatever it is for a lousy cup of coffee.
Neighborhoods are what the residents make of them, I have no problem with any of the neighborhoods the Ridazz have pedaled through, it's one reason I go on these rides is to visit areas of town I've never been to. I've lived in LA for over 40 years and there are still many interesting places I've never seen. I'm fascinated with the places we've rolled through.
I whined about the hills.
And by the way, I'm older than Raymond's dad.
dave11.13.06 - 8:44 am
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APOLOGY ACCEPTED!!! BUT WE AS RIDAZZ STILL HAVE TO LOOK OUT FOR EACH OTHER,NO MATTER WHAT!!! DON'T LET THE TRUE SPIRIT OF ''MIDNIGHTRIDAZZ'' DIE JUST BECAUSE THE RIDE IS GETTING BIGGER.IT IS MORE IMPORTANT THAN EVER TO FOLLOW AND ADHERE TO THE '' NO RIDA LEFT BEHIND '' PHILOSOPHY!!!! PEACE AND LOVE, HENRY A. CORONADO
fixxed111.13.06 - 8:46 am
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Mr. Raymond,
See you at sins and sprockets!
I think all this discussion is awesome, but I too fear a fizzle out.
Maybe we should all get together and draft a manifesto of sorts.
Define our philosophy and communicate as much of the details as possible.
anonymitytheif11.13.06 - 8:55 am
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The ride was great, good turn out, Lets move on and focus on the
All City Toy ride..lets focus..
I just wanna mention on Raymonds behalf that the idea to give out specific cards to ridazz that bought a T shirt was to thank them.
Raymond was not looking to make a profit.
The guy that did not give you a card was just trying to help.
Fixxed1 - I was back and forth and did see you and your son when you were at 6th and Central. I think you guys went back up towards downtown. I had extra maps which I was trying to distribute thru out the ride I wish I knew you did not have one. The guy that did not give you a card was just trying to help.
deesimple11.13.06 - 8:55 am
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ALL IS FORGIVEN!!! LET'S JUST RIDE AND TAKE CARE OF OUR BABY ''MIDNIGHTRIDAZZ''!!!! PEACE AND LOVE, HAC
fixxed111.13.06 - 9:04 am
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We made lots of cards for all ridazz but they flew fast
deesimple11.13.06 - 9:04 am
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Oh, age and infirmity is no excuse. Maybe because I smoke and for sure its because I don't ride enough. Could have been my misspent youth, or my dissipative life style.
Another reason I go on these rides... is to look at peoples bikes and the people in general. I followed this one guy for quite a while with an artificial leg that was spinning along with the best of them, I watched another girl spinning along...I don't think she knew she had more than one gear or maybe she was afraid of or couldn't shift, whatever. People always amaze me.
Hey, just put your ride out there and grow some thick skin, opinions are like, what is it? Everybodys got one.
dave11.13.06 - 9:16 am
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How is the fallen rider, the one who needed the ambulance?
nameisbauer11.13.06 - 9:38 am
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Just Curious,
were there ridazz left behind on this ride?
studiodrome11.13.06 - 10:51 am
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Thief,
Great idea about having a manifesto. I think all points of view can be included somehow if we all get together. Also, everyone posting on here should be helping the rides move along. I don't expect newbies to stop and help people out, cork, point people in the right direction, push people along, change flats, or hold up the rear, but the majority of the people getting involved in this discussion should be contributing during the actual ride. I seriously will be towing people on the next ride!
I think Dee will be at Sins n Sprockets and he may have some spoke cards as well. Is this right Dee?
Some sort of group meeting would be a great idea.
Roadblock,
What do you think about a manifesto?
Mr. Raymond11.13.06 - 10:59 am
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I think we've all determined that there are strong riders, weak riders, complainers and non-complainers. Corking helps and corking hinders. This thing is never going to be perfect. It's impossible in a group this size. Let's focus on solutions that can appease the majority.
Example, posting the route seems like a good idea (other than cops knowing exactly where we are going – but it’s not hard for them to figure that out and follow us anyway). For those that want the route to be a surprise, don't look at it until you get your spoke card. This may weed out some of the people who think the ride may be too tough, and give some of us carless folk some advance notice to figure out how to get home.
Also, what about some volunteers for each ride that are willing to ride cleanup. Experienced riders who are willing to ride as the last riders on that particular ride to make sure anyone with a flat or any other bike problem can get back on the road quicker. They can also help push the laggers along. The reality of a ride this size is that some people are gonna need help, and there have to be some willing to give up part of their evening of riding to help someone else get through it. You’ll meet some new folks and get them pumped about riding. That doesn’t sound like a bad evening either.
I think as far as corking goes, in a group this size it’s much safer for everyone if we cork. We are out there showing people we have a right to the road too, and that biking LA is possible. The corking and the numbers of riders helps show that it’s more of a demonstration rather than a daily occurrence. I think for the most part, people will understand. If we stop at every light, the ride will be so split up, that riders will be rolling in to the end point for hours. Maybe shorter lengths between stops will help keep the pack together a bit more. The longer we go between stops, the more spread out the ride will get. I also like the idea of using stops as alternate starting points. This can help keep numbers down on parts of the ride, which in turn will help keep the group together a bit more.
Okay I’m rambling too much.
BTW, the manifesto is a great idea.
brassknuckle11.13.06 - 12:07 pm
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i can't spend time reading such long posts.
We all have the responsibility as individuals to be safe cyclists just the same as drivers have the responsibility to be safe. We are considered the same as a motor vehicle and must obey traffic laws.
Be safe and courteous while raising the public's consciousness about bicycle safety and alterative transportation options, that's what it's all about.
eric11.13.06 - 12:22 pm
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After posting a couple days ago and returning and reading all of the other posts, I think we should agree on two simple things:
1. Let's work to keep the ride together.
That's what MR is about, riding together. Riding together maintains the spirit of inclusiveness & solidarity and makes a bigger statement to the drivers & neighbors we pass.
2. Let's cork.
It helps keep the ride together and it makes things safer. I think the idea of before the ride designating some people to cork is a GREAT idea.
Even Lance Armstrong rides with a pack of homies around him diverting traffic.
blackbike11.13.06 - 4:31 pm
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I'll follow the law wherever possible because the only way we'll ever be accepted as making a legitimate statement is if we're within the law. The best way to get on the right side of disapproving authority is to be impeccable in spirit and action. Always be safe, always be legal, always be courteous. If we block traffic and cause gridlock we're sure to be seen as a nuisance rather than an alternative.
eric11.13.06 - 4:51 pm
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I'm off the opinion that
not corking is going to cause more gridlock and generally be less safe than corking and sticking together.
monovsstereo11.13.06 - 5:34 pm
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( Puts a CORK into this discussion )
Joe Borfo11.13.06 - 5:40 pm
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Two Cents:
I think corking is good to keep the large group together...
but when the group gets spread out, I can't see corking 10 cars to let 3 bicycles go by...that would piss someone off for sure...
I think corking the front is good, but the question is how do you keep the group together in the back? Maybe there should be some experienced riders in the front, to lead the way...some experienced riders in the middle to keep them close to the front, and some really gutsy people in the back doing "sweeping"...
Mathematically, if one group was riding at 20 mph, and the other group was riding at 15 mph...in half an hour, we would be stretched out to 2.5 miles!! There's no way you could cork that many people back together...
Maybe there should be some way to communicate with the front, to let them know to slow it down a little, or to find an impromtu stop point, to let the group collect itself..
I stopped to help some people fix their low aired tires...it took us a while to catch up to the back of the group, but we did it...It's a good thing I basically knew which direction to head, because we were down 5 minutes, but the main pack had scooted off...and the riders I was with didn't know which way to go...and we had red lights and cops giving out tickets to deal with...
Is there a corking 101 class? I've ridden a lot, but I have no idea when or how to do it...
and personally, I like how the group ebbs and flows, and how you can go from the front to the back in a matter of minutes...and I think if everyone is responsible and if the experienced riders keep an eye out, everything will be cool...
adrian11.13.06 - 5:43 pm
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are we all drained by this discussion yet?
if you plan to throw a ride then you're the one that gets to decide how it will go. lets see who will volunteer.
Mr. Raymond11.13.06 - 5:50 pm
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Undercover Ridazz is coming up, and is a great opportunity for anyone interested to get your feet wet in making the ride of your dreams.....
Hit me up crystalmoore3@yahoo.com or post suggestions on the thread for Undercover Ridazz....
anonymitytheif11.13.06 - 6:03 pm
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I prefer the term guidelines to the word manifesto...
I'll throw my 2 cents in though.
I believe we should cork for exactly 1 light. Then the next pack has to stop at the red. Believe me, riding with a small click of 75-150 is still really fun. Though I forsee this creating packs of 100-200 in practice.
My main fear is that generally we don't obey lights when we're stopped at one. Seems like as soon as there is a break in cars there are the ones who are just not patient enough to wait even though it helps fellow fisrtime ridazz by keeping them close by..
Serisouly what's your hurry everybody? When you are stopped at a light it's so much safer and more desire-able to slower ridazz if you fast ridazz would just wait it till the green whilst they catch up. seriously. besides that is extremely dangerous. by running the light you expose ridazz to raw traffic. we usually have the advantage of a buffer of cars already stopped for us. if we run a light at the beginning often there is running traffic. I saw someone run a light and almost got hit hard. barely got past a speeding car who skidded in a stop to avoid him.
We need pace makers. I elect Big Bike Dan. The guy's got great pace and he provides music. Then there's that other homeboy whom I don't know his name but he has a stereo too. That homie can ride with the back crew or visa versa whatevers clever. Pacemakerzz
Who corks?
My idea, corking duties automatically go to those at the front of the pack. automatic the first 4 ridazz have to stop and cork. they then go to the back and are encouraged to ride to the front again. the next time it goes to the next in line ridazz. bam.That's it. no sweeper teams.. I'm a huge fan of making this ride democratically fun. meaning, everyone including the ride leaders are able to have relatively small duties and therefore more fun.
Roadblock11.13.06 - 7:44 pm
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Geez, and I thought I make a lot of noise.
My opinion? Publish the start and end points, nice to have someone point the way at turns, cuz finding your way by the back of a spokecard is bull in the mid of the nite. and fewer hills, not no hills, just fewer, the rest will sort itself out, despite, or inspite of, all the glorious planning.
Didn't anybody get a photo of the start? The view up Los Feliz of all the jammed ridazz was unreal. Just like the San Diego fwy during rush hour...
dave11.13.06 - 8:03 pm
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Fixxed1: please remove your capslock, it is fucking annoying. It is like screaming at someone sitting next to you. It is visually loud. And not in a good way.
prendrefeu11.13.06 - 10:25 pm
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Where is the Nickel? Is there really a neighborhood in LA that people call the Nickel? All I could think of was the 5 freeway.
liquidpremium11.14.06 - 1:24 pm
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HEY PRENDREFEU, I'M SORRY MY CAPSLOCK ANNOYS YOU BUT GET OVER IT!!!
fixxed111.14.06 - 3:23 pm
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Come on , Stop that shit, keep it civil guys.
Thru out the site you have not seen any display of anomosity..Its all love.
Lets keep it like that.
Be the Better Man..
deesimple11.14.06 - 4:28 pm
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Raymond,
I do have a few un laminated cards
deesimple11.14.06 - 4:29 pm
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yo dee i can laminate those if peeps wante em...
eric11.14.06 - 5:16 pm
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Yeah, lets laminate those extra cards. Which cards are they? I was gonna give up one of the cards I've got, but if we can get some of those other ones laminated that would be cool so I can keep the memories.
Mr. Raymond11.14.06 - 5:59 pm
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I onlyh have 15 of the ones that have the whole design on it, same as shirt
deesimple11.14.06 - 7:30 pm
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Sweet! I'll need one of those cuz I'm handing mine off to someone that didn't get a card yet.
Mr. Raymond11.14.06 - 8:17 pm
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So I started the thread and havent looked at it in a while, turns out it turned into a bit of discussion...
I hope a few things happen:
1. I hope we try our best to keep in perspective who rides MR and plan routes accordingly, so that we can keep most of the group together.
2. I really wish people would abandon this stupid attitude about being a stronger rider vs weak riders. What happens when I compare your asses to Lance Armstrong (are you weak or strong, assuming hes sober)? Its a foolish distinction and its opposite of what its ever meant to ride a bicycle. MR is about community and support. Plus I see a whole list of dope riders in the back, just chillin....why? Because thats what MR is about. I tend to disbelieve those that need to bragg or distinguish themselves.
3. Lastly, I think having the group together will keep all the beautiful women who are on cruisers too, within the group. This thread has been encouraging, since many fellas are so strong and eager to use MR to train for the next Paris Roubaix that they will be too focused on their calves and cadence to cock-block. Ladies, lets have fun, enjoy the scenery and share a drink or two.
md2
"Hardcore riders arent looking at MR for conditioning."
md211.15.06 - 5:59 pm
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dude get a grip.
eric11.16.06 - 9:11 am
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Well md2... nice of you to drop back by and check out the fire you started. Guess we'll see you in a few more days when you come back for your next hit-n-run?
Agent Orange11.16.06 - 5:18 pm
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After seeing a ridda come within inches of getting hit broadside by a car last Friday night, I would encourage everyone to stop at the stoplights when the group gets spread out.
We can then form another - smaller group, and are once again riding in numbers. A group of 10 to 20 riddaz is still better than running a red light on your own.
BillyB11.16.06 - 6:33 pm
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Ridazz Roulette!
