Naked Bike Ride returns to Southampton

Motorists and pedestrians alike came to a standstill as scores of scantily clad cyclists took part in Southampton’s annual Naked Bike Ride.

The X-rated expose – now in its sixth year – was one of 60 treks taking part in towns and cities across the globe this weekend as part of the World Naked Bike Ride.

The initiative is part of a road safety and environmental campaign promoting green travel, protesting against oil dependency and highlighting the vulnerability of cyclists on today’s busy roads.

More than 150 brave men and women gathered at Southampton Common wearing nothing than their birthday suits with the odd handful sporting bikinis and shorts to cover their modesty.

Some decked their bikes in colourful flags and flowers, while others wore extravagant hats and masks or painted their bodies in bright colours to partly obscure the view.

Co-ordinator Rob Jordan wheeled up in the buff on his trusty touring bike, thankful for evening sunshine after the day’s torrential downpours.

He said: “It’s a fantastic turnout. This is an environmental protest and a great way to urge people to cycle more.

“There’s nothing shameful or embarrassing about nudity – the riders enjoy it and we get lots of cheers from people.”

Crowds clapped and waved as the cheeky convoy flashed past, honking horns, tinkling their bells and whooping along the six-mile route along Highfield Road, through Portswood and into the city centre and back to Southampton Common.

Student Dan Black, 24, from Wessex Lane, watched wide-eyed from the safety of the pavement.

He said: “It’s the first time I’ve ever seen anything like this and it’s a totally new experience.

“I could never do it though I am far too modest.”