Rush hour traffic in downtown Austin Friday evening had another element added to it around 5:30
Dozens of cyclists from all parts of town converged on the University of Texas to participate in Critical Mass. That's when cyclists riding in a large group together take over a particular road at a particular time.
The event, though social in nature, is designed to send out a message.
"It let's them know that we're out and about and it kind of builds and awareness that we're out here and trying to get places like everyone else", said Chris Beavers an Austin cyclist and Critical Mass participant.
"I think it's healthier, it's environmentally friendly, I think it's just so much fun to ride on a bike", added Bryce Dishongh, a first time participant in Critical Mass.
KVUE followed the cycling masses as long as we could until we lost them at Guadalupe and 6th street. The cyclists we saw obeyed traffic laws and stopped at red lights but for some reason riders were still able to get further faster than we were able to.
One Critical Mass event in September of 2001 took a deadly turn when one driver, Michael Henderson lost his patience squealing his wheels as he plowed through a group of cyclists. Henderson actually drove over one bicycle after the rider jumped out of the way just in time.
Present day drivers say though they appreciate the Critical Mass effort some questioned its effectiveness.
"They definitely get driver's attention obviously because of the amount of bicyclists but I don't know if they necessarily get the point across that people should cycle more than they should drive", said Tina Victory, an Austin driver.
"I think driving in Austin is difficult enough without more obstacles in the way. I don't know what message is getting out," added Hugh Garrity another Austin driver.
Austin police told KVUE that the department is aware of the Critical Mass rides but said officers are never on hand unless they're called out to take care of traffic problems caused by the event.
