INDIANAPOLIS -- "Ride Your Bike To Work Day" couldn't come at a better time for proponents of exercise and energy savings.

Hundreds of Hoosiers ditched their gas-guzzlers for the day and hopped aboard their bikes for the morning commute.

With gas prices hovering near record highs and further price increases likely, many vowed to continue pushing a different pedal, for both financial and health reasons.

Central Indiana bikers had 11 official starting points Friday morning along different routes from the suburbs to downtown.

All roads led to Monument Circle downtown, with free bike parking and food offered. Organizers estimated that 500 people took part this year, marking record participation.

For some, Friday's event was an additional perk for doing something they have already been doing for months or years.

"I don't think there's a better way to get to work if you have the option," said Tom Mulpagano, of Nebo Ridge Bicycles. "We hear a lot of excuses of why people can't … It's just a great way to get around. I use my bike for everything."

More Info: www.bicycleindiana.org