THE region is further cementing its position as the the capital of the UK's cycling world - with the creation of another major two-wheel event.

Cycle Expo Yorkshire is due to roll into Harrogate later this year, adding to the county’s impressive repertoire of international grade cycle events.

Having hosted the Tour De France’s Grand Depart in 2014 and the now annual Tour de Yorkshire, the county has also secured the UCI Road World Championships in 2019, which is expected to bring record numbers of spectators to the region.

And now the Cycle Expo Yorkshire has been added to the calendar, at Harrogate’s Yorkshire Event Centre from October 12 to 14 2018, when 20,000 enthusiasts are expected to descend on the region.

Within the YEC’s 250 acres of land, there will be a number of races and competitions covering all cycling disciplines, from a closed road circuit race, to a large Cyclocross event and an international pro-rider flatland competition.

There will be a number of carefully created demo areas, where enthusiasts can try the latest models from some of the industry’s biggest brands.

Cyclists will be able to try conquering the challenging Yorkshire hills and headwinds on two "eBike" areas, where experts will be on hand to answer questions and give advice on choosing the right bikes and equipment.

Also featured will be a woodland mountain bike track and a kids "GoRide Zone" with the organisers claiming the expo will cater for all, from the novice and beginner, to the dedicated amateurs and professionals.

The event is a joint venture between Welcome to Yorkshire and Leeds-based international marketing and events specialists XSEM.

Welcome to Yorkshire chief executive Sir Gary Verity said the event would continue to build on the county's cycling legacy, attracting thousands of visitors.

"We have already had a great response from local cycle clubs and retailers alike, and hope the rest of the county can get behind us to support the event in true Yorkshire spirit,” he added.

XSEM's head of bike, Charlotte Scoular, said: “With its rich cycling heritage and success of previous events, Yorkshire is the perfect choice for the Cycle Expo."

  • Tickets for the event go on sale in February. For further information visit cycleexpo.co.uk