Save the Critical Mass/Reclaim The Streets bike sound system!

I'm currently facing two court cases in San Francisco for the being ticketed while riding the bike soundsystem. Both cases share the same charge of California Vehicle Code section 27007 (which has to do with vehicles with amplified sound). The first ticket was received when I was pulled over by the CHP at the May 2005 SF Critical Mass. The second ticket was from the September 2005 SF Critical Mass ride when I was pulled over by the SFPD. In July 2005, I was also arrested while riding the bike soundsystem at the G8 protest in San Francisco. My bike, soundsystem trailer and iPod were all confiscated and it took about a month and a half to get them out (on the day of the August 2005 SF Critical Mass). The charge from the G8 protest was eventually dismissed, but only because the arresting cop was too stupid to write a valid ticket.

In California Vehicle Code section 27007, it states that "this section does not apply to the sound systems of vehicles used for advertising, or in parades, political or other special events". The California Vehicle Code also defines "vehicles" narrowly to not include human-powered vehicles. Some of the sections regarding traffic laws do apply to bicycles but those sections that do apply to bicycles are specifically listed and 27007 is not one of them.

I will be appearing in court today(10/28) for the ticket from last month's ride. My next trial is set for November 10th, 2005 for the first ticket from May 2005. The amount of fine for each case if I lose will be $154.96, so I'm facing about $310 in total fines. I was able to get some donations at the end of the October ride at the screening of the NYC CM documentary, "Still We Ride". Any amount you can give will help. Thanks!