The tennis is so last week and the football has all been a bit of a damp squib, so get behind the cycling craze for a summer of fun on two wheels.

Far less hazardous than the current Tour de France, Kent’s low-key public alternative offers months of free-to-enter, county-wide bike rides for all abilities and guided by trained British Cycling ride leaders.

It is the third year that the series of events called Sky Rides have run across Kent.

Rides will be taking place throughout the summer at diverse locations from the Viking Coastal Trail on the Thanet tip to Mote Park in Maidstone and Shorne Country park in Gravesham – all completely free.

With different levels, there’s a ride for everyone from beginners building confidence to comfortable cyclists looking for a challenge.

Andrew Chaston of British Cycling said: “Cycling’s never been more popular, and whatever your age or fitness level, it’s easy to get involved.

“We’re delighted to make it even easier for local people to get out on their bikes and have some fun this summer.”

TIMETABLE OF RIDES

Saturday, July 19 - Milton Creek, Swale

Sunday, July 20 - Fusions Figure Of 8, Maidstone

Saturday, July 26 - Cyclopark Circuit, Gravesham

Sunday, July 27 - Swale Creek

Sunday, August 3 - Knole Park, Sevenoaks and Cyclopark to Shorne Country Park, Gravesham

Sunday, August 10 - Princes Park to Podium, Dartford

Sunday, August 17 - Knole Park, Sevenoaks and Swale Creek

Sunday, August 24 - Viking Coastal Trail, Ramsgate

Saturday, August 30 - Cyclopark Circuit, Gravesham and Knole Park, Sevenoaks

Sunday, August 31 - Fusions Figure Of 8, Maidstone

Sunday, September 7 - Mote Park, Maidstone and Seacycle, Birchington

Sunday, September 14 - Cyclopark to Shorne Country Park, Gravesham and Cycling Satisfaction, Sevenoaks

Sunday, September 21 - Crab and Winkle Way, Whitstable and Dartford Park Circular, Dartford

Sunday, September 28 - Viking Coastal Trail, Ramsgate and Seacycle, Birchington

For more information and to book a place, visit www.goskyride.com/kent