Three Ilkley cyclists have launched a range of sportswear to encourage cyclists – whatever their weight or fitness abilities – to take to the road without feeling uncomfortable in unflattering and tight-fitting clothing.

The company – Fat Lad At The Back, or FLAB – has designed garments that look as good on larger sizes as they do on peoplethe size of Bradley Wiggins and Chris Froome.

They say more and more middle-aged men in Lycra are taking to their bikes.

But with an average UK male waist size of 38 inches, it is not easy to find garments that fit well.

Managing director Richard Bye said: “As I know from experience, skin-tight Lycra is off-putting when you’re carrying extra pounds. No wonder ‘normal’ men and women can feel a bit hesitant about getting on a bike and riding out in public.”

The idea of the clothing range after a cycling trip to the French Alps.