THOUSANDS will seize the chance for a mass bike ride along the route of the first Tour de Yorkshire just hours before the professional cyclists take part in the inaugural race.

The “sportive” Tour de Yorkshire Ride will be a central part of the new approved international cycle race which will be held for the first time from May 1-3.

Three distance options are available for the sportive, with riders able to choose from 50km, 100km or 140km routes. A women-only Cycletta sportive will also take place along the 50km route. The event is being supported by five-time Tour de France winner, Bernard Hinault. Participants in the sportive will cross the same finish line as the pro riders. The sportive will be held on Sunday, May 3 just hours before the pro race starts.

Register at letouryorkshire.com/sportive. To see the three routes, see the web version of this story at thetelegraphand argus.co.uk.