THIS is the first look at the bicycles which will transport thousands of people around Brighton and Hove from September.

These newly released photographs show the cycles that will be used for the city’s Boris Bike type scheme.

The Social Bicycles (SoBi) smartbikes will be officially unveiled at Brighton Housing Trust’s Around the World Cycle challenge on June 25. They feature the classic Dutch style frame which is designed for comfort and durability.

The tyres are made from Kevlar to withstand rough roads and there are front and back mudguards for all-weather riding.

The front basket can carry up to 20lbs and the saddle can be adjusted to fit anyone from 4ft 11in to 6ft 6in.

Safety features include both front and back LED lights which come on whenever the bike is in motion.

The smartbike also features an integrated computer which allows you to track your ride.

The scheme was due to launch in time for summer but has been delayed until September.

Gill Mitchell, lead member for environment and sustainability at Brighton and Hove City Council, predicted it would be a huge success.

She said: “We’re looking forward to the new cycle scheme launching across the city before the end of summer and are delighted to see it already supporting a local charity and helping to improve our community.”

When up and running there will be 450 SoBi bikes across the city at 50 docking stations.

Journeys will cost between £2 and £8 per day.

They will be launched at the BHT’s charity event at Preston Park Velodrome, Brighton, from 9am to 7pm.

The challenge will see cyclists aim to collectively complete 66,792 laps of the track, equivalent to the distance around the world.

A number of the SoBi bikes will be available to ride.

Simon Hughes, manager at BHT’s First Base, said: “Every person who takes part will be helping us to make a real difference to the lives of people who need our services.”

For more details visit bht.org.uk.