FORGET your standard cycling gear and basic bike.

Crazy costumes and two-wheelers with a twist will be the order of the day for next Sunday’s Sky Ride Southampton.

Thousands of cyclists are expected to take part in the traffic-free event on July 25 which aims to encourage people of all ages and abilities to get back on their bikes.

As well as having the chance to explore the city on two wheels, there will be plenty of bike-based entertainment to keep Sky Ride-goers occupied.

One of the fun events taking place on the day will be a Wacky Riders competition.

And Sky Ride organisers are urging cyclists to get creative with the bikes they ride and outfits they wear and take part in the challenge.

A fancy dress competition will take place during the day, which runs from 10am to 4pm.

That will be judged by Heart breakfast presenters Jules and Bunker, Sky Movies presenter Mark Dolan and world famous professional BMX rider CK Flash.

Final judging will take place at 3.30pm in the Sky Ride Entertainment Village in Hoglands Park.

The best three entrants will be invited up on stage to model their outfits and receive their prizes.

The wackiest rider will receive a trophy for their efforts with medals going to the runners up.

Sky Ride Southampton organisers have come up with a few suggestions to give potential entrants an idea of what could make them a Wacky Rider winner.

These include dressing up as a character from TV shows or films such as the Simpsons, Sponge Bob Square Pants, Shrek or Harry Potter.

If you want to dress practically for the Sky Ride but also sport fancy dress, why not go all out and attend the event dressed as a Tour de France competitor?

Organisers have also suggested matching outfits to help groups and families stand out.

And cyclists are also encouraged to try and catch the eye by decorating their bikes with accessories like bells, ribbons, stickers, sparkles, flowers and streamers.

For more information and to register for Sky Ride Southampton visit .