Well, I finally went, after months of wanting to
go, but never going.

It was certainly different than my usual rides
through Honolulu. We were actually in a lane of
traffic, the whole lane, not just off to one
side.

I've always enjoyed riding with a group of
bicyclists, which is much more fun than riding
alone.

A few problems came-up, though.

First, the group constantly became seperated. The
faster riders often outpacing the slower ones. I
posted a messege in the Critical Mass list
advising that faster riders ride in the back and
slower ones in the front, to moderate the group's
speed.

Second, while the meeting place - the State
Captiol - is convenient, as everyone knows where
it is, the ending point is not. We stopped at
Kaimanu Beach, across from the zoo, to watch the
sunset and then most of us went into a bar to
listen to a friend play guitar there. It's a nice
bar, but way too fancy for my tastes and the food
was too expensive for most of the Massers who
went inside. I was the only one who seemed to be
able to afford to buy his own food and drinks.

I can imagine the frustration the waiter felt,
waiting on people who seemed willing to eat the
free pupus and drink water, but he seemed to
realise that he wouldnt make any tips off of our
group. I ordered a meal and drinks and gave him a
good tip on top of it. If we're going to go
there, we shouldnt look like a bunch of
freeloaders. I think a collection should have
been taken to tip the waiter for the water he
served and be so patient with our group which
took-up, at least two tables.

Waitstaff depend on tips to pay their own bills,
we need to understand that. If we're not going to
order food and tip, we shouldnt go there.

The number of people who showed-up was
disappointing, about a dozen people. Numbers at a
Critical Mass are important. Lack of any public
announcement about the Mass almost ensures a low
turnout.

While bike messengers on the Mainland support
Critical Mass, Honolulu messengers dont seem to.
Various problems in the past have disenchanted
them. I invited everyone from Crosstown Couriers
to go with me and they all declined. The reasons
given to me made sense and I didnt try to
persuade them. If things improve, maybe they will
change their minds.

Sadly, the Hawaii Bicycling League will not
support Critical Mass, however, they will not
condemn it either. Some of the more conservative
members dont like CM's approach to activism. I
understand it, but I dont like it. No HBL
leadership will attend a Critical Mass and that
is a shame.

Granted, this was my first time. I had a good
time, but I understand why people dont attend.
I'll do my best to help things improve.




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