CYCLING fans will be in their element next week when professional bikers race through the city centre.

The 2024 Ford RideLondon Classique will burst into life on Friday, with cyclists going wheel-to-wheel over the course of three days.

Stage one will feature a ride from Saffron Waldon to Colchester - which fans and viewers can watch on the roadside and on TV.

The route will take cyclists through 23 different areas, including Littlebury, Hertfordshire, Buntingford, Debden, and Finchingfield, before finishing in Colchester’s city centre.

RideLondon is part of the UCI Women’s World Tour – the premier annual female elite road cycling tour.

The race takes to the streets of London and Essex each year, with some of the world’s best cyclists taking part in the race.

Will Norman, London’s walking and cycling commissioner, said: “RideLondon is one of the highlights of the year for our capital, with something for everyone to enjoy."

RideLondon celebrated its 10th anniversary last year, with Charlotte Kool, member of Team DSM-Firmenich pro cycling team, securing the overall Leader’s Jersey – marking her second win.

“This is always a great event… from giving confidence to new cyclists, to enabling more experienced riders to push themselves,” Will added.

To find out more about RideLondon visit ridelondon.co.uk.