One person riding a bicycle in his birthday suit would probably get arrested for indecent exposure. On the other hand, a swarm of nude bikers, streaked with body paint, gets applause and press coverage.

For the first time on Sunday, Sept. 6, Philadelphians joined the millions worldwide who annually take to the streets stark naked and pedal with pride.

The World Naked Bike Ride was started in 2004 and continues to grow as individuals across the globe step up to organize the rides in their own cities.

Embracing the dress code “as bare as you dare,” WNBR participants are encouraged to decorate their bikes and bodies with designs, messages and flare with the understanding that the ride will be an exciting and joyful experience, free from discrimination or insecurity.

Streamers and body paint aside, however, WNBR defends its bold pursuit with a number of clear purposes. In riding naked, bikers embrace the beauty of their own bodies while seeking to physically symbolize our overexposure to toxic emissions.

The act of biking, WNBR believes, supports a healthy body image, creates a sense of self-sufficiency and allows us to realize that less is more while simultaneously helping the environment.

Finally, in invading the roads that cars and buses command from day to day, the naked bikers generate an alternate vision of city life, establishing a sense of interpersonal community. Plus, it’s fun!

On the day of the event, hundreds of Philadelphians met near 25th and Locust clothed, as was advised by organizers, but threw modesty to the wind as the four mile ride took off.

Yes, public nudity is illegal, but the WNBR FAQ page assures interested bikers that arrests are rare, but still encourages participants to bring along clothes, just in case. Being a responsible cyclist above all is the key to the event’s success.

With contagious confidence, the sea of cyclists passed the Philadelphia Museum of Art, through Rittenhouse Square, zipped down Market Street (where, according to KYW Newsradio 1060 reporter Hadas Kuznits’ blog, a chant started: “Whose street? Our street!”) and ended in Old City.

If you’re interested in taking part in future naked bike rides, visit the official Philly Naked Bike Ride website, as plans are already underway for next year’s event on September 5, 2010!