So It's Your First Critical Mass Ride...

So it's your first Critical Mass ride?
Or your 101st?
Here are a few simple suggestions for a great event.

1. Yield to all emergency vehicles such as ambulances, fire trucks, and police cars. Move to the sidewalk as quickly as possible. Walk your bike on sidewalks.
2. If the mass gets thin and strung out, wait to stick with a large group of cyclists. Don't cork or block cars unnecessarily when no bikes are passing. Occasionally letting auto traffic pass keeps tempers down, and lets everyone enjoy the ride. Multiple small masses are more fun than one huge one.
3. If a motorist is confronting you, do not escalate the situation. Speak softly and calmly, and explain that this is a peaceful protest. Do not antagonize pedestrians or motorists, either verbally or physically.
4. Some accidents and arguments will happen. Don't join in confrontations with others, instead, try to defuse tension whenever possible.
5. Do not block any cars that in turn, block the mass (see diagram). Letting these cars pass will lead to a smoother, safer ride. Please let trapped pedestrians pass. You might help them by escorting them across the road.
6. Talk to drivers. Explain why you're here, and that they're welcome to join this community bike ride.
7. If you witness an altercation, notify the police so they may deal with it accordingly.
8. Don't be a hero. You are not invincible, and an angry motorist in a car creates a dangerous situation for everyone.
9. Relax, have fun, and enjoy the ride.
10. Encourage other riders to do the same.

-Adapted from various Critical Mass flyers for new riders.