A BIKE ride could be introduced at next year’s Brighton Marathon.

Cyclists of all abilities will be able to race in the 50km challenge if the proposals are approved by Brighton and Hove City Council – and it would make one of the biggest events on the calendar even bigger.

Organisers are being coy over the plans and have not given details about the route and further road closures until the authority makes its decision.

But the cycle, dubbed BM Ride, will definitely be a city centre route.

It is scheduled to start early on April 14, before the marathon and the 10km run.

Grounded Events Company, the business behind the scheme, said: “Grounded Events plan to offer cyclists of all abilities the opportunity to enjoy the streets of Brighton and Hove together, traffic-free over a 50km distance. Whether a keen cyclist looking to ride out with friends, a family looking to take on a challenge together or a fundraiser looking for an opportunity to raise money for their chosen cause this event has something for everyone.

“Faster riders can start at the front while others follow on. This is not a race but an opportunity to enjoy the city of Brighton and Hove in a way not offered before. Ride fast, ride steady, or ride easy at BM Ride.

“This will be a rare opportunity to ride on closed roads and enjoy all the atmosphere of the buzzing Brighton Marathon weekend.

“Grounded Events is working closely with Brighton and Hove City Council to develop the event plan and hope to submit its proposal for cabinet consent in early October.”

Brighton has been home to a number of big cycling events in recent years.

Every summer there is the London to Brighton Bike Ride, and the triathlon saw record numbers compete on Sunday.

In 2014, Mark Cavendish and other stars of the sport rode into the city as they completed the Sussex Stage of the Tour of Britain – an event that proved hugely successful.

The plans for the BM Ride have been met with joy from Becky Reynolds, from cycling campaign group Bricycles.

She said: “It seems like a good idea, as long as road closures aren’t terribly inconvenient.

“I welcome any added interest to attract people to cycling.

“What we do lack here is opportunities for families to go cycling with children, so this will be good for that.

“Also, closing roads to cars, even for a short time, will help reduce pollution.”

People interested in the event can find out more information by signing up to brightonmarathonweekend.co.uk/bm-ride.