CYCLING enthusiasts in York got a rare opportunity to test ride bikes of all shapes and sizes as part of a bicycle roadshow.

Tandem, recumbent, electric and foldable bikes were all on display at Cycle Heaven in Bishopthorpe Road.

And members of the public were able to ride them through the streets of the city, attracting plenty of attention wherever they went. Alison Roe, head of customers services at Cycle Heaven, said it was a great opportunity for people to get a taste of alternative cycling.

Alison said: "It's a great experience, anyone who's into cycling knows that it's a great way of being free. And these bikes are unusual, a bit more entertaining and really good fun.

"Everyone has been quite excitable - it's been a really good laugh."

Bikes on display included a tandem for an adult and child, an electric bike, a recumbent touring bike and a back-to-back recumbent bike for adventurous cyclists.

All the bikes are featured in the 2002 edition of Encyclepedia, an annual coffee table book about alternative cycling produced by Velomedia Ltd.

For the first 20 Evening Press readers who turn up with a cutting of this article today, Cycle Heaven are giving away 20 free copies of Encyclepedia 2001. Photocopies will not be accepted. Andy Shrimpton, of Cycle Heaven, will answer any questions. For more information go to www.encyclepedia.com.

Updated: 11:35 Friday, August 10, 2001