More kids biking to school means less traffic congestion and better health, but the Austin Safe Routes to School Coalition also wants to encourage safety.

On Friday, the group hosted Bike to School Day to encourage kids to get active and to teach them more about responsible riding.

For sixth-grader Henry Arget, the joy of two-wheeled transportation was motivation enough.

"I really love the freedom and the control," Arget said.

He joined his Martin Middle School classmates at the Camacho Recreation Center, where health educator Doug Ballew lead students on the ride to school.

"[It’s] just to draw attention to the fun and the recreation and transportation that bicycling can provide for folks," Ballew said.

Volunteers were on hand to provide helmets to everyone and escort them in smaller groups.

For Arget, the event was about more than safety.

"I think bike riding makes people happier and happier students leads to a better school," Henry said.

The National Center for Safe Routes to School hosts events all year, including a “Walk to School Day.”

In Austin, it’s illegal for anyone under the age of 18 to ride a bike, without a helmet.