Those rides are usually in the spring when the air is clean and the trees are in bloom. Spring is nice, pretty, but that quickly turns into a very stagnant dry hot valley with really dirty air. It's been rated as the worst in the nation at times. But consider power in numbers, safety and confidence. Riding alone is never recommended, but there is power in numbers. I think when you see the massive numbers of bikes on the road like Holland, it sends a powerful statement to everyone. There is power in numbers, and it also commands a great deal of respect versus any one lone rider. I’m not sure critical mass is the answer, as that seems offensive and standoffish. How about instead that Critical mass just divided up into smaller segments all over the city to show us how it’s done Holland style? Don’t you think that would have a much broader positive impact then a pissing contest with motorists?