Ride of Silence
This evening, I pedaled in part of the Ride of Silence, the annual group ride commemorating cyclists who have been killed while on their bikes. This is the second year there’s been one of these in Seattle, and my second time participating in it.
Last year’s turnout seemed to me to be a lot bigger; I figured about a hundred cyclists tonight; I think there were like 300 last year.
Part of the reason for that, I think, is the solemnity of the thing. Participants are asked to ride at no more than twelve miles and hour and to remain silent during the ride. That’s fine and represents a perfectly legitimate way to honor fallen cyclists, but I don’t think it does much in the way of attracting people back for another go.
I know that if I’m ever killed while cycling—or for that matter, even when I die of whatever cause—I’d like people to commemorate my life with a loud, raucous, and liberatory ride. I’d encourage the consumption of mood- and mind-altering substances should people be so inclined and I’d certainly want them to talk—especially about me!
Of course, there are any number of appropriate ways to show respect for the deceased. Herodotus observed that the Greeks were appalled at the Callatians’ practice of honoring their dead fathers by eating them while the Callatians could in no way be persuaded to accept the Greek practice of burning theirs. So, in the case of the Ride of Silence, it’s clear that “custom is king.”
Still, I’m a little put off at events that take the fun out of cycling. Sheldon Brown has written about “thons” in this same vein, and I agree. To me, it’s a shame when two-wheeling is turned into a means to support any agenda other than the delightful experience of two-wheeling itself.
Not to diss the Ride of Silence, but when I’m on my bike, I want to make noise!
Last year’s turnout seemed to me to be a lot bigger; I figured about a hundred cyclists tonight; I think there were like 300 last year.
Part of the reason for that, I think, is the solemnity of the thing. Participants are asked to ride at no more than twelve miles and hour and to remain silent during the ride. That’s fine and represents a perfectly legitimate way to honor fallen cyclists, but I don’t think it does much in the way of attracting people back for another go.
I know that if I’m ever killed while cycling—or for that matter, even when I die of whatever cause—I’d like people to commemorate my life with a loud, raucous, and liberatory ride. I’d encourage the consumption of mood- and mind-altering substances should people be so inclined and I’d certainly want them to talk—especially about me!
Of course, there are any number of appropriate ways to show respect for the deceased. Herodotus observed that the Greeks were appalled at the Callatians’ practice of honoring their dead fathers by eating them while the Callatians could in no way be persuaded to accept the Greek practice of burning theirs. So, in the case of the Ride of Silence, it’s clear that “custom is king.”
Still, I’m a little put off at events that take the fun out of cycling. Sheldon Brown has written about “thons” in this same vein, and I agree. To me, it’s a shame when two-wheeling is turned into a means to support any agenda other than the delightful experience of two-wheeling itself.
Not to diss the Ride of Silence, but when I’m on my bike, I want to make noise!
posted by Professor Dave at 8:08 PM
4 Comments:
Good words.
I didn't show up this year because I don't find the silence to be useful. Last year people where being so silent that they wouldn't even tell those who asked why we were out riding. Getting out the message should be a part of the ride.
i went to last night's RoS as well, and have pretty much the same feelings about it.
communication seems to be lacking, i guess by-design, but it still seems a bit counter-productive to me. i like critical mass better, why not celebrate instead of look somber?
I skipped the Shut Up and Ride because last year was just un-fun. Conformity by TBC seemed to be the expected norm. No one tells me to shhhh! on my bike!
Some fact corrections. Last year the estimate of participants was 500-700. The ride is for any fallen biker, dead or not. Last year my wife, Gypsie was the maitrin of honor. We both agree that a wake would be more appropriate. Riding a bike is fun!
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