INCREASED rail services during the Grand Depart will not include any extra provision for cyclists.

While large numbers are expected to flock to York for the opening stages of the Tour de France, train companies have stated they will be "strictly enforcing bike policy" and there will be no extra cycle carriages across the Grand Depart weekend of July 5 and 6.

On Northern Rail services, two bikes per train will be allowed but this will be at the conductor's discretion, and spaces cannot be reserved. A spokesman for the company urged rail users and cyclists to "take a sensible approach" and "try to avoid bringing bikes onto busy trains".

Similarly, Grand Central will be running normal services and "strongly advise" customers not to bring their bike as reservations are not allowed and there is limited space available.

First Transpennine will be running extra train services throughout the weekend to accommodate the number of visitors, but will not be increasing the capacity for cyclists.

A spokesman said: "We are actively seeking opportunities to increase capacity further but to ensure that we carry as many people as possible we will be strictly enforcing our bike policy. Only two bikes per train will be carried and customers wishing to take bikes on board are advised they will need to book in advance, where availability exists. Unfortunately we will not be able to carry unreserved bikes over the Tour weekend."

City of York council is still finalising plans for cycling provision during the weekend but there will be increased bike bank facilities at hub areas such as the railway station or the University. According to the council they expect large numbers to travel by bike and a full transport map is being developed which will be released before the event.