Interview on Critical Mass, and The Reno Biking Community

I was able to catch Nico aka Alfaj0r (that’s a ZERO not an O!) for his perspective on the Reno movement that has come to be known as Critical Mass. I asked him some questions relating to the event and its function within the Reno Community. My first Critical Mass experience was facilitated through Alfaj0r via twitter.com (a social matrix). The event had a great turn out full of interesting people bursting with energy. The highlight was by far the educational experience volunteered by other commuting bike riders with their own tips and advice. The feeling of a strong community foundation was ever present throughout the atmosphere, from the diverse selection of bike riders coming together for a common cause. Feel free to offer your own advise and tips on this topic, whats your biking tale? Where are the best locations to gather local biking information, in regards to events, safety, and tips? Bike shops usually have flyer’s and know what’s going on around town. The Bike Project is also obviously “in the loop” www.renobikeproject.com What are some of the best aspects that you have experienced in regards to Critical Mass? It’s a rush when you look around, and there are 40 people riding their bike around you, and little kids look at all of you in amazement, with a big smile in their face. I’ve also met a lot of people who are interesting and discovered new places in Reno. What are some of your recommendations to Reno drivers that would benefit the Reno biking community? Share the road! One of the “goals” of Critical Mass is to raise awareness that riding your bicycle is an excellent way to get from A to B, whether that is work, school, or the monthly Red Hat Society meeting. Our roads are not very bike friendly, so sharing the road is a must until bike lanes are available. If you’re “stuck” behind a cyclist on a narrow road, put yourself in their shoes. Chances are that they can’t go any faster, or move to the side. Slow down, look around, roll your window down a bit and let some of that fresh air come in. All in all, the best thing a driver could do to benefit the biking community, would be to join it! What are your recommendations for Reno bike riders that would benefit the community? Share the road! Some people think that Critical Mass is a big “fuck you” to motorists, but that’s not the goal. CM is a celebration of cycling, not a war against motorists. CM is about asserting our right to the road, not denying others their right to the road. Those who want to play juvenile games are not welcome at CM (Quoted from http://www. critical-mass. info) Critical Mass in Reno is on the FIRST Friday of every month. We meet down by Wingfield Park Plaza (by the river, next to Java Jungle) at around 5:30. When everyone decides it’s time to go, we go. There is no set agenda, so there is no predetermined route or duration. There are no set leaders, just whoever feels like stepping up does it. You can find out about Critical Mass in Reno on the Internet, we’re out there http://www.stickerguy.com/renocm http://tribes.tribe.net/renocriticalmass