INDIANAPOLIS -- It was a brisk, but dry morning Friday as hundreds of cyclists headed out for Indianapolis' sixth annual Bike To Work Day, in conjunction with a long-running effort nationwide.

Most are involved in the effort to either promote physical fitness, a cleaner environment or both, 6News' Julie Pursley reported.

Cyclists said they want everyone to see that biking to work is a fun, easy and healthy approach to commuting.

"Certainly green thinking and green living is a reason to bike," said Randy Clark, of Bicycle Garage Indy. "Last but not least, it's a way to save money."

Organizers are trying to win converts from millions of Americans who live less than five miles from their workplace.

"Right now, it's nice because in the morning, it wakes me up," said cyclist Anna Schwinn. "When I ride home at the end of the day, I just feel better when I get home. I'm in a better mood."

Part of riders' mission is to not only educate drivers about the importance of sharing the road, but also remind cyclists to play it safe.

"I see it happen too often where a cyclist thinks they're above being a driver, and that's wrong," said cyclist Victor Suarez. "We need to obey the rules of the road."

IndyGo buses are equipped with bike racks for those who want to ride and bike. Indy Parks has 59 miles of space on which to ride.

An inaugural Mayor's Bike Ride takes place on Saturday at 1 p.m. at Veterans Memorial Park. A 10-mile loop will showcase new bike lanes and the Cultural Trail downtown.

The event is free and open to people of all ages.