Up to 50,000 participants are expected to turn up and be able to cycle round a traffic-free Central London and enjoy the city's famous landmarks.

 

Triple gold medallist Hoy said: "It's fantastic to be involved with a day that encourages more people to get on their bikes around London.

 

"Personally I can't wait to cycle down the Mall."

 

Joining the gold medallists will be Shanaze Reade, who narrowly missed out on a medal in the BMX after crashing on the final bend.

 

She said: "This is going to be a great day whether or not you are an experienced cyclist.

 

"There's no better way to see the capital than on a bike and with no traffic in the way, it is the perfect chance for those with less confidence to enjoy themselves."

Hubs at the Emirates Stadium, Clapham Common, Victoria Park and Ravenscourt Park will be open from 8.30am, where cyclists can meet up with friends before setting off for the central route, which will be open from 9.30am until 5.30pm.

 

Every level of cycling is set to benefit from the investment of Sky, whose five-year deal was announced on the eve of the British team's departure to Beijing, where they won 14 medals, including eight gold.

In London on Sunday the public will be given tips by British Cycling coaches and will have the opportunity to test themselves against the GB cycling team in the Sky Sports Sprint Challenge.

 

Those who take part will also have the chance to win a signed Britain cycling team jersey.

London Mayor Boris Johnson, perhaps the capital's best-known cyclist, will be among those taking part.

 

He said: "The aim of Sunday's event is to celebrate cycling and encourage people in London to use it as a way of getting around and making the most of the city.

"Many Londoners own bikes but aren't using them regularly.

 

"I'm sure that the involvement of such fantastic cyclists from British Cycling, whose achievements were cheered on by millions of us during the Beijing Games, will only serve to inspire more Londoners to get involved and take part in this great free event."

Sky Sports London Freewheel is free to take part in, but participants must register in advance at www.london.gov.uk/freewheel.