Take to the streets with thousands of Houston cyclists at Critical Mass
April 27, 2016 | greystar
Join in a large community bike ride through the streets of Downtown Houston and inside the Loop with Critical Mass Houston happening on the last Friday evening of every month.
On the very last Friday of every month, thousands of cyclists converge at Market Square Park in Downtown’s Historic District and embark on a ride through the city. Rides start about 7:15pm and last about 15 to 20 miles and take about two hours. The exact time varies on the route, which typically ends at a bar, party or some place where cyclists can continue to hang out and socialize.
The Critical Mass Houston bike ride is not a race. It’s a casual and slow-paced ride, enabling people of all skill levels are able to take part. Some parents bring children and cart them in trailers or in bike seats, but most riders are of college age or older.
Houston’s monthly ride has proven extremely popular and has been growing in scale and impact in 2013. City police officers are usually on hand at Market Square Park at key points at the start of the route to help guide traffic. Riders are all strongly encouraged to obey the rules of the road and keep to their lanes.
Critical Mass Houston is part of a national movement uniting cyclists and taking over the rule of the road. The initial Critical Mass ride happened in San Francisco in 1992. Today rides occur each month in more than 300 U.S. cities. The first ride was conceived as a event to demonstrate how dangerous city streets are to cyclists.
Houston Critical Mass
- Dates: This recurring event happens on the last Friday of every month, regardless of weather or holidays. Click here for the latest updates on upcoming rides.
- Time: Riders meet between 6:30pm and 7pm. Rides typically start at 7:15pm. Rides usually end between 9pm and 9:30pm.
- Starting Location: Market Square Park, 301 Milam, Houston, TX 77002
- Parking: Metered parking spots in Downtown are free after 6pm on Fridays and all day on Saturdays. There are also several parking lots around Market Squarethat charge $8 to $10 for all night parking.
- Registration: Free. There is no charge and you only need to show up to participate. You will need a bike of course.