Judge: CM is not protected speech

Critical Mass is "an un-permitted parade that violated and posed a threat to motor vehicle traffic" according U.S. District Judge William H. Pauley, who ruled that the cyclists were not denied their First Amendment Rights when the city of New York required parade permits for riding their bikes. The judge did say, however, that some of the cyclists were denied their right to due process when their bikes were stolen by the police.

Civil rights lawyer Norman Siegel, who represented the cyclists, said, "The city of New York cannot seize people's bikes without proper notice for the taking of the property."

Siegel said another case in state court would determine whether the bicyclists must obtain a permit to ride and whether they can assemble in a city park.

The New York Times Magazine this issue and history of Critical Mass in more detail.

Tags: New York Critical Mass CM bicycle advocacy bike