Cyclists support monthly mass ride in Durban
The Critical Mass ride is a free group ride around the suburbs of Durban and Durban North, at a relaxed, social pace.
A GROUP of around 30 cyclists took part in Friday’s Critical Mass Cycle beginning at the Moses Mabhida Stadium. The group in Durban were part of thousands worldwide who took part in the mass ride to bring awareness to dangers cyclists face. The ride also is a way to show that cyclists and motorists can coexist said Durban North resident, Aroon Patel.
Patel is one of the lead cyclists at the Critical Mass cycling event usually held on the last Friday of every month.
According to Patel, the Critical Mass ride is a free group ride around the suburbs of Durban and Durban North, at a relaxed, social pace
The event originated in 1992 in San Francisco and is held in more than 300 cities around the world.
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The ride is also supported by a dedicated vehicle to help patrol and support cyclists using route and is also kitted with puncture kits and first aid kits.
“Essentially it’s a moving demonstration that shows cyclists and motorists can share the road. I’ve been one of the regulars on the Critical Mass ride since its inception several years ago. Initially we would ride through the City of Durban but we decided to change the route up this year. We’ve now chosen a route that’s proven very popular with some of the participants around Moses Mabhida then going on to Durban North and back again.
“In all it’s about a 20 kilometres loop. The Critical Mass event is open to anyone, parents with kids, beginners, commuters, and avid cyclists. We have two halfway stops to regroup and refresh so it’s a laid back ride. We also have the support of a few restaurants at the stadium which is also quite nice,” he said.
On Friday, members of the Pedal Power Association (PPA) of South Africa handed out reflective bibs with the message ‘Stay Wide of the Rider’ and flashing lights for bicycles.
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“It was great to have the PPA supporting us and handing out items to help our visibility on the roads.”
For more information, visit the Critical Mass-Durban (activated again in March 2019) Facebook page.
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