Yup, a semi-annual event, but best to let others know when it is "on" ... just in case one misses the Chinese language notifications. Best to be informed about what may lay around the next corner. Arrest, detention and perhaps deportation can make for a very bad day.

In Beijing, over the years, the campaigns have been plentiful, but IMHO they seem to be reaching a stricter application each year. I've heard the same from native Beijing riders. There was a recent public survey in Beijing, where >80% of respondents claimed 2 & 3 wheeled vehicles were the cause of many traffic woes. Despite the questionable validity, it demonstrates an overwhelming negative public attitude towards bikes.

Tangentially, I have noticed that many of the credible bike shops have greatly reduced the number of illegal bikes they deal in. I'm unsure if that is due to market forces, or the occasional police visit.

The idiots who run around without plates, fake plates, no insurance, no helmets, etc etc etc, really fuck it up for everyone else. Kinda like the "self-entitled" foreigners who think an anything-goes attitude is ok with a white face. Yeah, I've no time for these jokers, and kinda wish they'd all be tossed.