CYCLISTS are being urged to slip through the gears quickly and register for the 2013 British Heart Foundation (BHF) Heart Of York Bike Ride.

This year, the event which offers cyclists aged 14 and over the choice of a 22-mile or 40-mile ride through some of North Yorkshire’s finest countryside and moorland, takes place on Sunday, September 1.

Both routes start from the new York St John University Sports Centre off Haxby Road. With only 500 places up for grabs, cyclists can register online at bhf.org.uk/heartofyorkbikeride

Phil McMahon, BHF York Committee vice chair and event organiser, said: “The Heart Of York Bike Ride takes riders through some of our most picturesque countryside. Last year was a tremendous success and we would love to see as many people as possible take to the road, enjoy the challenge and get healthy again this year.

“I urge people across York and North Yorkshire to join our fight against heart disease and register today.”

The event is being organised by the BHF in partnership with York St John University, City of York Council, and Just 30. York’s CycleStreet will be on hand to provide maintenance support throughout the bike ride.

For more details, phone the BHF Heart Of York Bike Ride Team on 0121 661 5100 or email supporterservices@bhf.org.uk