It is a safe assumption to state that you stumbled across this site for one of three reasons. Either, 1) You think Critical Mass does, indeed suck, and you would like to find out more information why your pre-existing view is correct; or 2) You think Critical Mass is great and anyone with an opposing view is a moron, so you are here to see how moronic we actually are; or 3) You have not formed an opinion on Critical Mass and wish to find out more before falling into the ranks of either number one, or number two above.

Hopefully this site has a little something for you all, but it is primarily intended for those who have not yet formed an opinion and wish to find out more.

It should be stated that in some instances we agree with the views of some Critical Massers (CMers). We simply disagree with how they choose to go about creating change. Keep in mind that CM has no true mission statement, as it is not an organization and has no leadership (more about that later). It has no real goal. Goals are a marker, a point at which you know you have achieved something therefore you are finished. CM does not have this, nor a clearly defined purpose, which is why CMers themselves have different reasons for participation. Therefore, to argue for or against CM, one must decipher what they stand for as per those who choose to participate.

What Critical Mass does do, however, is perpetuate the Us. vs. Them mentality that is so damaging to serious dialogue — effectively doing more harm to cycling than good. From its earliest days, hostility and violence have been synonymous with Critical Mass.

No matter what your view, it is virtually impossible to discuss Critical Mass without the conversation getting heated. There will be colorful language throughout this website, especially in the Rants section which is what your fellow human beings have to think about it. If this may offend you, please venture no further. It appears from the research we have done that the term “Douche-bag” is often used to describe Critical Mass participants. We find that this term fits well, so we have taken to using it where appropriate, which admittedly, is often.

Although this content was created in a linear fashion, starting at So,What is Critical Mass, and finishing at the Douche-Bag-O-Meter, you are encouraged to jump around to the parts that suit you.

Stay safe, bike friendly, and don’t be a D-bag!