Since 1995, Los Angeles Critical Mass has gathered at Western and Wilshire, meeting at 6:30 PM and starting the ride at 7:30 PM. Over the years, we’ve welcomed more than 1 million participants, with cyclists joining us from across the United States and around the globe.

Los Angeles Critical Mass is a 501(c)(3) non-profit committed to cultivating engaging public spaces, advocating for bicycle transportation, and promoting good health through bicycle-friendly streets. Los Angeles Critical Mass inspires individuals to redefine their connections with their communities and with one another while cycling and exploring metropolitan Los Angeles and surrounding cities with thousands of cyclist together.

Critical Mass quickly spread to other cities around the world, evolving into a global movement that fosters community, promotes cycling, and advocates for more bike-friendly infrastructure. Critical Mass is characterized by its informal, organized nature, allowing participants to come together spontaneously, which has contributed to its appeal and growth.

Los Angeles Critical Mass, began in 1995.

Like other Critical Mass events globally, the Los Angeles version is a social ride where cyclists gather to promote cycling as a mode of transportation, advocating for cyclist safety on L.A. city streets, promoting mental health, and fostering environmental state of camaraderie. Los Angeles Critical Mass encourages cycling daily while celebrating cycling as a group ride every month. Attracting a diverse group of riders, Los Angeles Critical Mass became the forefront and mother-lode of all Critical Mass rides in the U.S. Boasting with over 3000+ participants in each ride, they have become known as the largest community bicycle ride in the U.S.A.

With the continuous growth from the late 1990’s, in the early 2000’s, Los Angeles Critical Mass evolved to a lead vehicle leading the ride because of the growing number of participants. Originally leading the ride was Brian W. with also the Los Angeles Police Department participating every month. When L.A.P.D. stopped participating, the support vehicles and ride marshals came into existence.

Since the formation of Los Angeles Critical Mass, we have had over 1 million participants that has cycled this event.

Every month, Los Angeles Critical Mass ride routes varies. Typical rides ranges from 16 miles to 28 miles. Riding throughout metropolitan Los Angeles, and surrounding cities. This includes downtown Los Angeles, Koreatown, Hollywood, Mid-city, Beverly Hills, Hancock Park, Miracle Mile, Beverly Grove, West Hollywood, Westwood, Century City, Culver City, Santa Monica, Marina Del-Rey, Venice Beach, Leimert Park, Inglewood, Boyle Heights, East Los Angeles, Los Feliz, Griffith Park, Watts, Burbank, Elysian Park, etc. New ride routes are in plans with going to cities and areas that has not been done before. Click here to view our past ride routes.

The thrill of Los Angeles Critical Mass comes from the collective energy of cyclists uniting to reclaim the streets. It’s a unique blend of community, adventure, and advocacy. Here’s why it’s so exciting:

1. Sense of Unity: Riding with thousands of cyclists creates a feeling of camaraderie and togetherness. It’s a celebration of diversity and shared passion for cycling.
2. Reclaiming the Streets: For one night, the streets belong to the cyclists, offering a rare and empowering perspective on urban mobility in a car-centric city.
3. Exploring the City: Each ride is an opportunity to discover LA from a new angle, moving at a human pace and experiencing the city in ways cars can’t offer.
4. Positive Vibes: The ride is filled with music, cheering, and a festive atmosphere that fosters a strong sense of community and joy.
5. Advocacy: It’s a fun yet impactful way to raise awareness about cycling as a viable and sustainable mode of transportation, pushing for safer streets and better infrastructure.

Meet our Team, click here.