Critical Mass event set for May 1

Cyclists in Riga are planning to participate in the cycling event called "Critical Mass" on May 1, reports LETA. This is an unsanctioned mass event where the riders will embark on spontaneously chosen routes throughout the streets of Riga.

An invitation to participate in the event is being run on social networks, calling people to gather on the Brivibas Street square at Daile Theater May 1 at 1 o'clock in the afternoon. The participants of the event want to draw attention to the cycling infrastructure problems in the city and to urge people to take action in order to improve the situation.

This year, mayor of Riga, Nils Usakovs, has decided to join.

"In the past, we had two options - the ride organized by the State Police and Critical Mass. I participated in the ride organized by the State Police, but this year the decision was made to cancel it, and in this situation, it is only logical to join Critical Mass. It does not matter where you cycle," Usakovs said, stressing that he will take part in the event abiding by traffic regulations.

The number of the participants in "Critical Mass" is growing annually, reaching several hundred people, and such events are taking place in many places in the world; however, not all support it because the cyclists tend to move about spontaneously, sometimes neglecting regulations and causing a temporary nuisance.

"Critical Mass" describes itself as a community of people who, by riding their bicycles, want to raise a question: "Why does our city have so few locations for relaxation and mutual gatherings, without the endless buying and selling? Why do people form their lives around automobiles? What could the potential future?"

"Critical Mass" stresses that the foundation for everything is joy, which cycling provides. "Critical Mass" is a celebration and an opportunity to show one's attitude and to support the cycling culture.