On Saturday 25th March 2023, we held the first Critical Mass cycle ride in Derby since 2016.
Despite the less-than-ideal weather, a total of 23 riders of all ages and abilities hit the streets of Derby to draw the public’s attention to the need for improved cycling infrastructure in and around the city.
After meeting outside the Council House, experienced Critical Mass riders Sam and Simon briefed the group, explaining the plan in further detail.
The route began through the Market Place, led by Simon and his rack-mounted speaker blasting 90s No. 1 single Your Woman by White Town where the music video was filmed, followed by reggae track Bike Rider ft. Pupajim by Mungo’s Hi Fi which has become the most popular Critical Mass track.
We continued through Iron Gate and Cathedral Rd, round to The Strand and up Friar Gate as far as Uttoxeter Old Rd.
Returning to the ring road at Lara Croft Way, we rode past the railway station and onto the riverside path where we took a short break. Thankfully, the rain had only been a light drizzle for the first half of the ride, and over the second half we saw more blue skies.
Our launch day route then meandered through Pride Park and down to Allenton before heading back into town via Osmaston Rd, finally arriving at the Waterfall Venue on Railway Terrace to finish off the event with a social gathering.
Most participants parked their bikes in the key fob-protected cycle hub at Derby railway station.
A 10 mile cap has been recommend on Critical Mass though we will rarely exceed 9 miles. On days of extreme weather the distance and speed will be reduced considerably.
Critical Mass is meant to be an inclusive cycle ride for all. The pace is adjusted to that of the slowest rider. Less confident riders should aim to stay in the middle of the pack where there is less air resistance and more protection from other road users. Stronger riders are encouraged to look out for those with less confidence!
Two weeks before our launch day ride, it was announced that Derby scored 1 on a scale of 0–4 on this year’s active travel capability ratings, having “basic plans and isolated interventions that do not yet obviously form a plan for a network.” Meanwhile, Nottingham and Leicester scored 3, having “very strong local leadership, comprehensive plans, and a significant network in place.”
Let’s hope that Critical Mass can send a message to our local authorities: Derby has failed to deliver decent cycling infrastructure. We need greater commitment to active travel provisions, with meaningful results before the end of the year if we are to bump that rating up.
Thank you to those who helped organise the event and to everyone who came along for the ride. We hope you will join us on the next one. Cheers!