.here at cc our views on critical mass are clear - we're just not sure about the effect, at least, not for 'good' - but there are plenty of people who disagree, including emily crompton, who decided to take us to task...

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I live in manchester where we have huge critical masses every month- its my favourite night. I don't ride unsafely and just today i was cut off three times, mainly by buses. I think the point of critical mass is, for just one evening out of 30, some cyclists get together and have a jolly ride around the city and remind cars we are here too and perhaps they'll look in their mirror more closely next time! The people at the back thank the cars for waiting and if anyone gets angry we smile and thank them again. They are, after all, in a metal box- who wouldn't be angry!

The point of the slow pace is so that riders of all levels can participate. The point of the mass has historical precedent...- in some film in some american city (prob san fran) there were no red lights, so cyclists built up at a junction and when they had enough riders they could cross in safety- ie critical mass.

It is most certainly not two wrongs making a right- cars are bad for the environment and make everyone unhappy. A bike uses the energy we have, it is (not CM) quick and you can't help but smile when you see someone humming a tune as they ride by. We are not out every morning like cars, we come together every month to build awareness of cyclists safety on roads.

I am an active feminist and I am always making comparisons with feminism and biking - (if you like, for explanation's sake: men = car or something). Feminism is peaceful and if we had an equal society it would be better for everyone. If we had safer, more aware drivers it would be better for the cyclists, pedestrians, cars and buses. You see.

Okay rant over, hope you have a nice day. And if you're in manchester this month we have a bike festival happening.

.emily crompton