In recent weeks, we’ve been reminded that not everyone understands or embraces what this movement represents. There have been moments of negativity — comments, distractions, and attempts to pull focus from the purpose of our ride. Yet even with that, the heart of this community hasn’t wavered.
And when the mass rolls out, that noise fades into the background. What rises instead is the sound of thousands of wheels cutting through the city, the glow of bike lights stretching block after block, and the undeniable rhythm of a community moving as one. Every ride is proof that we are bigger than the hate, stronger than the obstacles, and destined to keep pushing forward. The streets themselves become our stage, and together we write a story of resilience that cannot be silenced.
MESSAGE FROM LISA — OUR EVOLUTION, OUR PURPOSE, AND WHY HATE ISN’T THE ANSWER
Dear LA Critical Mass Community,
Critical Mass began as a grassroots ride — a simple idea that grew because people showed up. But as the movement expanded, so did the responsibility. Thousands of cyclists moving through Los Angeles every month isn’t just a gathering; it’s a community with real needs, real visibility, and real impact.
That’s why Critical Mass evolved into a legitimate nonprofit.
Not to become political, not to take sides, and not to change who we are — but to protect what we’ve built. Becoming a nonprofit gives us structure, accountability, and the ability to advocate for cyclists in a way cities, agencies, and statewide partners can recognize.
And let me be clear: we are not a political organization. We don’t endorse candidates. We don’t take political positions. We advocate for safer streets, cycling access, and the right for people to move through their city without fear. That’s our mission. That’s our lane. That’s our purpose.
Our advocacy is real, measurable, and grounded in action:
1. We have submitted hundreds of signatures in support of statewide bicycle legislation, including AB initiatives that directly impact cyclist safety.
2. We are actively involved at the statewide level, working alongside the leading statewide cycling organization and serving within their Policy Advisory Council, helping shape cycling priorities across California.
3. We regularly meet with city council members across Los Angeles, participating in discussions, planning sessions, and future collaborations focused on safer infrastructure and community visibility.
4. We partner with other nonprofit organizations and events across the city, strengthening community ties and expanding our reach beyond cycling alone.
5. We recently participated in a free dog vaccination event, supporting families and pet owners — and we hope to bring similar services to cyclists who are dog owners and lovers in the near future.
6. We are now hosting additional cycling events outside of our flagship last‑Friday ride, including Century rides and soon long‑distance mountain rides designed for endurance cyclists.
7. We are in active discussions with bike shops to create opportunities for future registered participants to ride free demo mountain bikes during our mountain events, or to access low‑cost rentals — priced at a fraction of a standard rental.
And to all the bike clubs and cycling crews who ride with us faithfully — month after month, year after year — we want to say thank you. Your consistency, your energy, your leadership, and your presence help shape the identity of Critical Mass. You are part of the backbone of this movement, and we appreciate every mile you ride with us.
As we’ve grown, we’ve also faced moments of negativity — attempts to undermine our work, misrepresent our intentions, or provoke conflict. Some actions have been disrespectful, even extreme, but they only highlight why our evolution matters. They remind us that visibility comes with challenges, and leadership requires maturity.
And here’s the truth:
hate isn’t the answer.
Not for us.
Not for anyone trying to build something real.
Hate doesn’t create safer streets.
Hate doesn’t build community.
Hate doesn’t move Los Angeles forward.
LA Critical Mass chooses a different path.
We choose advocacy over conflict.
We choose unity over division.
We choose to keep building instead of reacting to negativity.
Our movement is bigger than the noise. It’s bigger than the attempts to tear us down. It’s bigger than any moment of disrespect. We’re here to advocate for cyclists — all cyclists — and to make Los Angeles safer for everyone who rides.
Critical Mass became a nonprofit because our community deserved stability.
Critical Mass rejects hate because unity is stronger than division.
Critical Mass continues because thousands of cyclists choose connection over conflict every single month.
We’re here to move with purpose — and we’re not stopping.
With love and momentum,
President & CEO,
Lisa Lundie
Los Angeles Critical Mass
MAY 2026 RIDE RECAP: OUR FIRST GLENDALE RIDE
May’s 2026 ride was nothing short of historic. From the moment we launched at Western & Wilshire, the energy was undeniable. We watched as thousands of cyclists filled the streets, climbing out of Koreatown and pushing toward East Hollywood. By the time we reached Los Feliz, the sight was breathtaking — a continuous stream of cyclists stretching block after block, moving together with purpose and unity. It was a powerful reminder of how far this movement has come and how strong our community truly is.
Our regroup at North Atwater Park gave everyone a chance to reset before the big push into Glendale. The transition into the city was electric. Glendale was ready for us, and their police department provided a full escort that allowed the mass to move safely and confidently. Turning onto Central Avenue and then onto Brand Boulevard was unforgettable. Downtown Glendale came alive as restaurants, storefronts, and sidewalks filled with people cheering, recording, and celebrating the moment. Seeing our cyclists take over such an iconic corridor with full visibility was a milestone for all of us.
The toughest climb of the night came as we left Glendale and pushed up Silver Lake Boulevard. It was a challenge, but we saw determination in every cyclist as we made the ascent. At the top, the cool night air and sweeping views rewarded the effort, and the descent back toward HQ felt like pure momentum — fast, smooth, and exhilarating. It was the perfect closing chapter to a night defined by endurance and unity.
This ride wasn’t just another route. It was a first. It was a statement. It was thousands of cyclists showing what community looks like when we move together. To all the bike clubs and crews who ride faithfully with us month after month, thank you. Your consistency and presence help define Critical Mass. Glendale welcomed us, Los Angeles showed up, and together we created a moment that will stay with us for years to come.
JUNE 2026 RIDE RECAP — SUMMER RIDE SERIES BEGINS
June’s ride marked the official launch of our Summer Ride Series, and the energy was unmatched. Thousands of cyclists left Koreatown from Wilshire Boulevard, rolling west toward La Brea before opening into Culver City. The streets filled with movement, music, and light as the Remix Mobile Stage carried three DJs spinning live sets, transforming the ride into a rolling festival. This month’s ride wasn’t just about distance — it was about celebration, connection, and the start of something bigger.
Our first highlight came in Culver City, where the mass gathered at Veterans Memorial Park on Culver Boulevard. Here, we were joined by Taco Tuesday DJ Vicious Lee, adding his signature sound to the night, and the iconic Soul Train, whose energy and rhythm elevated the atmosphere even further. The combination of live DJs, community crews, and thousands of cyclists created a moment that felt both historic and joyful — a true kickoff to the summer season.
From Culver City, the ride pushed west toward Marina del Rey, where the Los Angeles Sheriffs made it possible for us to gather safely at Dock 52 for our main break. Their support, alongside the escort provided by Culver City PD, ensured that the ride remained unified, secure, and visible throughout the night. The break at Dock 52 gave cyclists a chance to recharge, connect, and take in the coastal air before the final stretch home.
This month’s ride was more than a route — it was a statement of what Critical Mass can be when music, community, and advocacy come together. With thousands riding, DJs spinning, and crews joining forces, we showed once again that Los Angeles is strongest when we move together. Thank you to Culver City PD, the Los Angeles Sheriffs, the Remix Mobile Stage, our DJs, the Soul Trains and every cyclist who made this night possible.
The Summer Ride Series has begun, and June set the tone for an unforgettable season ahead.
Century Ride & Upcoming Long‑Distance Events
Our recent Century Ride reminded us what this community is capable of. Over 100 miles, more cyclists showed up than we ever expected, turning a long day on the road into one of the most fun and memorable experiences we’ve shared. The gourmet lunch and dinner we provided were exactly what everyone needed — delicious, filling, and the perfect reset between miles. Chargel kept our cyclists energized with that extra boost when needed, and water, juices, and full hydration support were available at every stop. The teamwork, the laughter, the determination at mile 90 — it all proved that when we commit to something big, we show up in force and finish strong.
And we’re ready for the next one. Our upcoming Century Ride to Santa Barbara is already in motion, and LA Critical Mass will again be providing hydration, snacks, and lunch — all free for our registered participants. This will be another fully supported endurance ride designed to push our limits while keeping the experience fun, safe, and accessible.
Beyond the Road: XC Mountain Biking
We’re also planning a completely different kind of challenge — a long‑distance XC mountain biking ride across the top peaks of the LA and San Bernardino Mountains. This won’t be paved roads. We’re talking fire roads, service roads, and stretches of singletrack, with climbs, long descents, and panoramic views in every direction. It’s a different discipline from road centuries: stamina, rhythm, elevation, and breathtaking scenery without technical rock gardens — just beautiful XC mountain biking that introduces our cyclists to an entirely new realm of cycling high above the city.
And remember — our XC mountain bike rides will be free for all registered participants. To make sure everyone can take part, we’re working with our board on bike‑access options for riders who don’t own a mountain bike. Whether it’s a free demo XC bike or a rental priced at a fraction of a standard rental, we’re committed to making these elevated rides open to anyone who wants to experience them. This also directly supports our local sponsored bike shops and bike manufacturers, giving them visibility and potential new customers from cyclists who discover mountain biking through these events.
These mountain rides will also include support vehicles, staged at key checkpoints, break areas, and meal stops. The terrain won’t always allow them to be in the ride itself, but they’ll be exactly where we need them — keeping everyone safe, hydrated, and supported throughout the journey.
Behind the scenes, our senior leadership team is already out there riding these future routes — testing climbs, descents, mileage, terrain, elevation, and logistics to ensure every long‑distance event we launch is not only doable, but enjoyable, safe, and worthy of the community we serve. One of the final topics we’re working through is participant shuttling — whether we shuttle everyone to the mountain start point or use another system that keeps things smooth and organized. We’ll keep you posted as plans continue to take shape.
Click here to know why we are introducing XC mountain biking to our communities.
Statewide Policy & Legislative Updates
We remain actively involved at both the statewide and federal levels, working alongside California’s leading cycling‑advocacy partners and serving within the Policy Advisory Council, where we help shape the priorities that impact cyclists across the state. Our involvement is hands‑on: we participate in policy briefings, provide feedback on draft legislation, meet with transportation‑mobility leadership, and elevate the concerns of everyday cyclists who rely on safe streets, legal e‑bikes, and protected infrastructure.
This work extends nationally as well. We track and support federal initiatives — including major proposals like HR 941, the America Bikes Act — that expand bicycle infrastructure funding, strengthen mobility networks, and ensure communities across the country have access to safe, connected transportation options. By staying engaged at both levels, we make sure cyclists, families, and vulnerable road users are represented in the conversations shaping transportation policy statewide and federally.
Part of this advocacy includes supporting legislative efforts that improve safety, accountability, and long‑term infrastructure — from ATP reform and bikeway protection, to DUI enforcement, e‑bike consumer protection, and national funding for bicycle infrastructure.
NEW LAWS NOW IN EFFECT (2026)
Three important laws took effect at the beginning of 2026, each directly impacting cyclist safety, e‑bike standards, and road accountability across California.
AB 544: Mandatory Rear Lights & Reflectors on All E‑Bikes
AB 544 now requires every e‑bike to carry a rear light and reflector at all times, not just after dark. This improves visibility in daylight, dusk, and nighttime conditions, reducing rear‑end collisions and making e‑bike riders more visible to drivers in every environment.
SB 1271: Certification Requirements for All New E‑Bikes
SB 1271 requires all new e‑bikes sold in California to be certified and recognized under established safety and manufacturing standards. This ensures new e‑bikes meet proper Class 1, 2, or 3 definitions, prevents unsafe or mislabeled products from entering the market, and protects consumers from purchasing vehicles that do not comply with California’s e‑bike laws.
AB 875: Impound Authority for Unauthorized E‑Bikes
AB 875 gives law enforcement the authority to impound unauthorized e‑bikes, including illegal high‑speed e‑motos that are being marketed or operated as e‑bikes. This law targets vehicles that exceed legal speed limits, lack proper classification, or pose safety risks to riders and the public.
Statewide Legislative Updates
AB 2168: ATP Reform
Expands Safe Routes to Transit, strengthens accountability for agencies that fail to deliver approved projects, and improves STIP leveraging for connected ATP networks.
SB 569: Bike Lane Integrity
Prevents the removal of installed bikeways without a formal study and public notice period.
SB 1279: Speeding & Safety on PCH and Long Beach Corridors
Targets dangerous speeding along PCH and key Long Beach corridors with stronger enforcement tools.
AB 1546: DUI Interlock Devices
Expands the use of ignition interlock devices for DUI convictions.
AB 1685: DUI Convictions — Automatic Points
Adds three points to a driver’s record upon DUI conviction.
AB 1687: Repeat DUI Offenders — License Removal
Removes chronic DUI offenders from the road after three convictions.
AB 1557 & AB 1942: Protecting Access to Legal E‑Bikes
Both bills failed to pass Appropriations — a major win for preserving access to safe, legal e‑bikes.
SB 1167: The Truth in Biking Bill
Protects legitimate Class 1, 2, and 3 e‑bikes while requiring high‑powered e‑motos to be accurately labeled.
AB 1167: Consumer Protection for E‑Bike Buyers
Cracks down on companies marketing illegal high‑speed e‑motos as e‑bikes.
Federal Policy Spotlight
HR 941: The America Bikes Act
Introduced by two federal lawmakers, HR 941 would expand national bicycle infrastructure investment by pulling dedicated funding from federal transportation programs. If passed, it would represent one of the strongest federal commitments to bicycle mobility in recent years — strengthening networks, improving safety, and expanding access nationwide.
Looking Ahead
As this work continues, our focus remains on the long game: building a transportation landscape where safety is standard, infrastructure is reliable, and cyclists are recognized as essential participants in how California moves. Our responsibility is to stay present in the rooms where decisions are made and ensure cyclists are represented with accuracy, urgency, and respect. By bringing real‑world experiences, data, and community voices into every policy conversation, we help shape outcomes that reflect the realities on our streets and protect the people who rely on them every day.
Community Standards & Non‑Affiliation Notice
As the largest community bicycle ride in the United States, our meet‑up locations naturally attract a wide range of people and groups. While we welcome everyone who comes to ride respectfully with us, we want to be clear that LA Critical Mass does not endorse, support, or affiliate with any individuals or groups who use our gathering time or location to solicit, sell products, distribute materials, or promote outside agendas.
This includes the sale of physical goods, recruitment efforts, propaganda, or any activity tied to cults, fringe organizations, or groups attempting to leverage our visibility for their own purposes. These actions do not reflect our mission, our values, or the community we serve.
If at any time someone makes you feel uncomfortable, pressured, or obligated to participate, please walk away. You are not required to:
- answer their questions
- engage in their videos or recordings
- accept promotional materials
- listen to their messaging
- participate in any activity they are pushing
Your presence at LA Critical Mass is for the ride — not for anyone’s outside agenda. Anyone soliciting, recruiting, or promoting unrelated causes is acting independently and without any authorization or approval from LA Critical Mass.
Our focus remains on providing a safe, positive, and inclusive environment for cyclists. Thank you for helping us maintain the integrity and spirit of this community.
Your space at LA Critical Mass is your own. If anyone approaches you with behavior that feels intrusive, pushy, or out of place, simply remove yourself from the interaction. You never owe your time, attention, or participation to anyone outside the ride. Our community thrives when cyclists feel safe, respected, and free to enjoy the night without unwanted distractions.
Donations & Community Support
Los Angeles Critical Mass is entirely self‑supported. We receive no city funding, no corporate backing, and no institutional assistance. Every aspect of what we provide — support vehicles, safety supplies, hydration, food, logistics, route planning, and the work that goes into running the largest community bicycle ride in the United States — is made possible by our leadership team and the cyclists who choose to support this movement.
We’re requesting donations because as our community grows, so do the expenses needed to keep every ride supported, safe, and well‑organized. Gas for support vehicles, replacement safety gear, first‑aid supplies, hydration, food, and the operational needs behind long‑distance events are real expenses that we cover out of pocket. A few cyclists donate at our meet‑up each month, and while we are deeply grateful, it is not enough to sustain the level of support we provide.
Your contribution — even the equivalent of a cup of coffee — directly strengthens the ride you participate in. It helps us maintain safety, expand support, and continue offering the kind of community‑driven cycling experience that makes LA Critical Mass what it is. If you’re able, we invite you to donate and help keep this movement strong, independent, and thriving.
CLOSING NOTE
Thank you for being part of a community that continues to set the standard for what collective cycling can achieve. Every month, you show what’s possible when people come together with purpose, respect, and a shared commitment to safe, connected mobility. Your presence and support strengthen LA Critical Mass, allowing us to operate independently, maintain safety, and deliver the experience this community deserves. We look forward to building even more together in the months ahead. We look forward to seeing you at this month’s ride.
With love, strength, and solidarity,
Lisa Lundie
President & CEO
Los Angeles Critical Mass
