I went to London this year, spur of the moment thing. I've ridden previously, but 10+ years ago so was curious to see how things have changed.
My main observation was that it was a bit disorganised. I missed the start due to life but expected to catch it up around westminster. I met three groups of riders looking for the ride but that couldn't find it, which is a real shame because they really wanted to get involved. They were headed to Waterloo which is where I eventually found it but they didnt seem to have made it. So there were some beautiful half naked women riding cluelessly around westminster at about 1530 that, based on these photos, never found the ride. They told me they had tickets for the afterparty so I really hope they found it.
My other main take-away was that the whole thing felt far more respectful to the riders than I remember it. I've no interest with candid shots of people who may or may not want to be photographed, I find it far better to simply ask riders if they are happy for me to get a photo. If they are, they pose and you get a great shot and everyone is happy. If not - put the camera away, the rider gets to enjoy his or her day and that is great. At the arch at the end there were a few women (and a lot of men) who were enjoying the attention and good for them, but it all felt a lot more relaxed than when I last rode back in the noughties. There was a bit of a scrum around the women with the geisha gear, but I think they may have been there to promote something anyway.
All in all, as a spectator it felt like a good day was had. I spoke to a lot of riders and to a man (and woman) they were having a great time.
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