Halloween always brings out a festive crowd, and the courts had decided in favor of the ride twice the day before, ruling that the police could neither confiscate bikes arbitrarily nor require a permit for the event. Add to that the political statement that many wanted to make on the eve of the 2004 election, and a good show was guaranteed. I estimate that 1200 attended.

The police turned out in force too, intimidating some riders, but the night went smoothly. Apparently a few were arrested but I didn't see it happen. Most had fun, including the officers riding alongside. "What's not to like?" one asked me, "I get overtime for this."