GETTING saddle sore will probably be the least of the concerns for participants in this year’s World Naked Bike Ride.

Now in its fifth year, the York event always draws equal amounts of criticism and support, with some people making a mental note of the date and time of the route so they can avoid all sight of some of the wobbly flesh on display.

This year the event takes place on June 19, gathering at the usual meeting place of Museum Gardens at 4pm and setting off at 5pm.

Again the ride is all about celebrating bikes and bodies, protesting about society’s dependency on oil and cars and visibly demonstrating the vulnerability of cyclists.

York resident Anna Semlyen, one of those taking part, said: “I go on the World Naked Bike Ride for the serious reason that I want to highlight the fact that there are too many cars and also because it’s fun.”

Another participant, Giselle Wajdner, said: “One of the best things is the variety of people who come down for the ride.

“Not just keen-greenies or avid cyclists, but their friends and family, loads of young people and even more older people, which shows how accessible cycling is as a transport option; not just for lithe, lycra-clad athletic types.

“Anyone can do their body a favour, save money and do their bit for the environment.”

From Museum Gardens the cyclists will take in Petergate, Parliament Street, Clifford’s Tower, New Walk, Millennium Bridge, Knavesmire, The Mount, Micklegate and Coney Street, ending back at Museum Gardens.

For those who would like to take part, but don’t fancy getting naked, nudity is not compulsory. Organisers said the motto of the event is “as bare as you dare” with many cyclists turning up in swimsuits or using bodypaint to disguise themselves.

Would-be cyclists should just turn up on the day.

Video from last year's event