What's On: Pimp Your Ride

The usual mountain bike riding kit is a muddy riding top and baggy shorts, but this Sunday expect to be wowed.

Following on from the 2010 Singlespeed World Championships in Rotorua where hundreds of riders raced in costume, there is Pimp Your Ride in the Government Gardens, a cartoon character-themed family fun ride and then the parade in the city centre after the Criterium racing.

The family run ride meets at the Waipa MTB car park but dressing up is not compulsory. Rotorua Mayor Kevin Winters has already scoped out his costume and is looking forward to the festivities.

"I've got a superman costume," he said.

"He has a cape and a cape looks really good on the bike, flowing out behind you.

"I'm also doing the Redwoods Coast on Monday and I want an aerodynamic outfit, one that flies and Superman flies ..."

Mr Winters hired his costume from Victoria Grove Costume Hire on White St, which is sponsoring the Pimp Your Ride event.

Owner Deb Rowles said she was looking forward to getting dressed up herself. And anyone taking part in the festival gets 20 per cent off costume hire.

Pimp Your Ride is happening in the Government Gardens from 10am to 4pm. This is for all ages - but especially the kids. The parade is for all bike riders. It will follow the Criterium at 5.30pm starts at the front of the Novotel.