A bunch of bicycle riders make their way south on Iowa Street in 2009. They were part of a monthly effort called “Critical Mass” that promoted bicycle awareness.

Dozens of bicyclists hit the streets of Lawrence on Friday evening, hoping to raise awareness of their presence on our roadways.

“I think it’s difficult as a cyclist,” 26-year-old rider Malakai Edison said. “You get yelled at a lot. I’ve been shot by paintball guns and all kinds of stuff.”

Edison was one of more than 50 riders who took part in Friday’s “Critical Mass” ride, an event that takes place in cities around the world on the last Friday of every month.

“Basically we want to get the message out that we’re here, we ride, it’s an alternative form of transportation, and we want to be safe,” Edison said. “So, we’re out here to say happy Friday to everyone out on the streets.”

The group started its ride at Wescoe Beach on the Kansas University campus, and after circling the roundabout at the Chi Omega fountain multiple times while motorists sat at a standstill and watched, the pack headed out onto such busy roadways as Iowa, 23rd and Massachusetts streets.

“Actually in Lawrence there is a lot of support,” said 21-year-old KU student Charley Berry. “We get a lot of honks and good things. There are some opposed who think bikes should be on the sidewalk, but you know it’s illegal to be on the sidewalk, so it helps promote motorist awareness, too.”

Those involved in the ride said overall Lawrence is a pretty bicycle-friendly town, but they believe there is still room for improvement.

“Just getting your three feet of space on the road is pretty difficult,” Berry said. “If I can reach out and touch you, you’re too close.”

The rides are open to anyone and take place at 6 p.m. on the last Friday of every month. “It’s just a group of cyclists getting together to support bike awareness and just have fun and ride,” Edison said.