2006-02-25 Critical Mass Rolling - NY1

NY1 News
February 25, 2006

http://www.ny1.com/ny1/content/index.jsp?stid=1&aid=57363

The bicycle activist group Critical Mass had its first ride Friday night since a court ruling in its favor.

But the group is still at odds with City Hall and the NYPD over its monthly demonstrations. Riders say police have regularly used abusive tactics to stop the rides.

Police claim the riders illegally congest traffic and create a public disturbance, such as when riders tried to take over the streets during the Republican Convention in the summer of 2004.

Earlier this month, a state judge denied the city's request to require Critical Mass to apply for a permit for its rides.

Police Commissioner Ray Kelly says the department will be keeping a close eye on the group.