unclad Cyclists Ride Through Philadelphia

Thousands of bicyclists in various stages of undress have pedaled their way around the city to promote fuel conservation and positive body image. The Philly unclad Bike Ride on Saturday featured people sporting masks, underwear, body paint, glitter or nothing at all. A lot of riders wore just their shoes.Scoop has more:

Debbie Kaighn, who was riding in the popular annual event for the third time, wore shoes, socks and body paint. On her front were streaks and splashes of yellow and green paint, and on her back was the message “Live free, ride unclad.” “I’m a naturist, and I believe in body freedom,” she said. “And I’m also a cyclist.”

The 12-mile ride through the City of Brotherly Love is among many related to the World unclad Bike Ride movement. Riders on the twisting course wheeled through University City, around the Rittenhouse Square park, down to City Hall and through Chinatown. Giddy crowds cheered them on while shooting photos and videos on their cellphones.

Ed Blanton traveled from Arlington, Virginia, to ride unclad in the Philly event for the fourth time “because I’m a bicyclist and it’s fun.” He wore just a sign on his back: “The earth is the Lord’s.” “I like to get this message out,” he said before hopping gingerly onto his bike and riding off. Other riders supported assorted causes, including chest cancer research. One had painted on his back, “Burn fat, not oil.”