Breaking News: Thousands of cyclists flood China’s roads at night in a quest for…..

What began as a social media trend to find breakfast dumplings ended in chaos, as thousands of cyclists caused severe traffic gridlock between two central Chinese cities.

The craze started with four university students in June, cycling 50km (30 miles) from Zhengzhou to Kaifeng to sample *guantangbao*, a local soup dumpling. Their spontaneous adventure struck a chord with Zhengzhou’s youth, sparking the viral trend “Night Ride to Kaifeng.”

Initially celebrated by state media as an expression of youthful energy, the movement soon spiraled out of control. Tens of thousands rented bikes and set off for Kaifeng, overwhelming a six-lane expressway. Police used loudspeakers to disperse riders, and bike rental firms warned they might remotely lock bicycles taken outside Zhengzhou.

Kaifeng officials had anticipated an economic boost and offered discounts and events for students, along with extra traffic control measures. However, as the roads became clogged with cyclists, the situation turned chaotic. Heavy police presence, drones, and ambulances lined the route, but congestion delayed travel times and forced many riders to dismount and push through crowds. Social media estimates placed the number of bikes on the road between 100,000 and 200,000.

Many who completed the journey expressed regret. One student, who cycled for over seven hours, recounted being unable to find taxis, hotel rooms, or adequate services, while locals criticized the influx of cyclists for littering and disrupting daily life.

In response, bike rental companies discouraged long-distance cycling, and authorities closed key cycling routes between the cities over the weekend. Some Zhengzhou universities imposed dormitory restrictions on students to curb further participation.

While local governments cracked down on the trend, fearing large gatherings could lead to unrest, many participants viewed it as a much-needed outlet for stress amid economic uncertainty and a demanding job market. “These events are a good thing,” said 27-year-old Ms. Li, who joined the ride to “feel young again.” “Happiness is infectious,” she added, reflecting on the appeal of such spontaneous escapades.