HUNDREDS of nude cyclists are set to take to the streets in a “protestival” ride across the city.

This year’s Brighton Naked Bike Ride promises to be bigger and better and more colourful than ever before, with as many as 1,000 cyclists expected to saddle up tomorrow afternoon for a seven-mile cycle across the city.

Cyclists will decorate their bikes and their bodies at Preston Park from midday, before setting off across the city at 2pm.

The route will take the nude bikers past the Royal Pavilion, the Palace Pier, The Lanes, North Laine and the i360 before finishing at the Black Rock naturist beach for a post-ride swim and picnic at around 4.30pm.

The annual event aims to empower participants in a celebration of car-free, human-powered travel, while also protesting against climate change and highlighting the vulnerability of cyclists and their strength and safety in numbers.

The Argus: Cyclists taking part in last year's Naked Bike Ride in BrightonCyclists taking part in last year's Naked Bike Ride in Brighton

Participation in the ride is family-friendly and “as bare as you dare,” organisers said.

A spokesman for the event said: “The ride aims to be celebratory, life-affirming and inclusive.

“We will cycle with sound systems and flags highlighting the many environmental and social issues which cycling and body freedom can address.

“In the previous years, the ride had up to a thousand smiley and exuberant participants.

“As every year, we will be celebrating, showing unity and solidarity, as well as demonstrating and spreading important messages.

“We want this ride to be bigger and better, louder and more colourful and joyful.”

Those taking part are encouraged to ensure they have a road-worthy bike and bring sunscreen and something to drink.

The bike ride is one of many across the UK and around the world taking place in over 50 cities this month to celebrate cycling and the human body.

The Brighton Naked Bike Ride is free but riders are encouraged to make a £5 donation.