Leave your Lycra shorts and Kevlar helmet in the wardrobe: the third Tweed Run, to be held on April 9 this year, is for traditional bicyclists clad head to foot in natural fibres.

The 10-mile ride, which last year featured over 400 entrants, is a relaxed one. It takes in many London landmarks, including, in 2011, St Paul's, the Houses of Parliament, Buckingham Palace and, appropriately, Savile Row. It will finish in achingly trendy Shoreditch, late in the afternoon.

To participate, competitors will need vintage, turn-of-the-19th-Century cycling clothing (plus-four tweeds, leather boots, bowler hats, etc.) and, if possible, a proper sit-up-and-beg bicycle. Or, even better, a penny farthing.

Sponsors of the charity event (for the very worthy Bikes4Africa) include Brooks (saddles), Pashley (classic bicycles), Huntsman (Savile Row tailors), and Geo F Trumper (the “finest traditional gentlemen's barber in London”). Aubin & Wills (fashion brand) will be hosting the Aubin & Wills Tea Break.

Prizes will be awarded to the Best Dressed Man and the Best Dressed Woman, and there’s also a Best Moustache award that either sex can enter. Entries open on Saturday February 26 – so, you chaps out there better leave the razors alone, you’ve only got a few weeks to grow that Walrus.

For further information from the organisers, visit the London Fixed Gear and Single Speed forum website.

Text: Classic Driver
Photo: The Tweed Run London