A group of people came together on Friday 31 January to form a “Critical Mass” of people on bikes who rode to remind people and decision makers that bike lanes and infrastructure in Yarra are important.

Critical Mass usually leaves the State Library at 5.30pm on the last Friday of each month and this month they rode through the CBD, Fitzroy, Collingwood, East Melbourne and Richmond, finishing at the Richmond Town Hall for speeches.

Critical Mass rode through both Elizabeth and Coppin Sts in Richmond, which were the focus of the protest as the Yarra Council has proposed narrowing the Elizabeth Street bike lanes to provide parking and the removal of bike friendly intersection popups on Coppin Street.

Speeches at the Town Hall focussed on the needs of local High School students to have safe bicycle and walking routes to allow them independence, and the need for local residents to prioritise safety over convenient parking.


Critical Mass Melbourne events are an opportunity for people on bikes to come together over a common issue, have a fun ride and enjoy road spaces that aren’t normally available.

In November 2025, Critical Mass will celebrate 30 years of rides across Melbourne.

The next Critical Mass will be held at 5.30pm on Friday 28 February. This ride will advocate for road safety improvements in the West.

Save the date: Critical Mass Yarra: Friday 31 January 2025: Meet 5.30pm, Friday 31 January 2025, State Library, Swanston Street, naarm, Melbourne.

Ride, scoot and skate through our traditional home grounds of Fitzroy, Collingwood & Richmond.

Many thanks to Sam Wallman for adapting his Freedom Machine design. Like it? Buy it!