Last night's Critical Mass (9/25/04) was possibly the best one seen in Baltimucho. The theme was musical instruments. The Mass rocked the streets of Baltimore with discordant musical fun.

Did it reach 100 bicyclists? We started with about fifty. We picked up dozens along the way. By the time we reached Pratt Street (from dreaded St. Paul St.) we may have reached the century mark for bicycles.

Two of the favorite bicyclists were young girls. It was thrilling watching one who was about seven or eight keeping up with the rest of us.

Did the Mayor hear us? One of the newest faces to join us, a local trouble-maker well known in activist circles, pretty much led the Mass from start to finish. One of the destinations was City Hall, where the Mass made an impromptu plea before the empty building for more access to the City's roads for bicyclists.

It was a longer ride than typical. This pleases those of us who don't mind a bit of a workout before the drinks. We started at Charles and Redwood Streets at 6:30 p.m. We headed north up Charles Street. Left on Preston Street. An odd detour in Bolton Hill. Back down Mount Royal Avenue. A few streets later we're on St. Paul Street, The Most Dangerous Street in Maryland.

We reached Critical Mass in the Inner Harbor. We continued East on Pratt Street. A left on President Street.

While waiting for our light to change at Lombard Street the aforementioned leader of the group raised his bicycle over his head, holding it there for an extended length of time. This was definitely a moment that would look great on a video about Critical Mass. Did anyone capture it?

We headed East on Lombard. We cut through the Block. Took a left off of Gay Street. Right on Calvert Street. Eventually we got to Charles Street by the Charles Theater.

Riding past The Charles theater was possibly the highlight of the night. Many people on the sidewalk were cheering us and we replied with our beautifully discordant melodies.

We hung a left on 25th street. Approached the Rendezvous. Did the group want to stop? No. So we kept riding. North on Howard Street until we passed the BMA. Eventually we headed South on St. Paul street. Hung a right at Mount Royal. Our final destination was the Mount Royal Tavern.

At the Tavern the drinks were cold and the company grand. All in all, the entire evening was a blast for all.

September's ride was so much fun for bicyling advocates that October's ride can only get better. Stay tuned for more about October's Critical Mass.