Hundreds of naked cyclists takeover London streets sparking backlash

It is a sight that left jaws dropped.Central London was thrown into absolute, skin-baring chaos on Sunday, June 14, when hundreds of cyclists stripped off their clothes, strapped on their helmets, and pedalled through the capital city.The annual World Naked Bike Ride (WNBR) made its jaw-dropping return to the UK, turning famous, historic landmarks into a sea of bare skin, body paint, and booty.From Tower Hill to Hyde Park, stunned onlookers were treated to what local media described as “bums and helmets everywhere” as waves of naked riders took over the tarmac.While the internet was busy melting down, Jeff Yone, an Australian expat who had just recently moved to London, was standing on the streets taking it all in, although he admits he made a conscious effort not to look too closely.New to the city, Yone had seen the event advertised online beforehand and headed down out of pure curiosity.While he described the atmosphere as a “mildly amusing” street party filled with music, dancing, and shock-laughing onlookers, he admitted the actual message of the protest was completely lost in the sea of bare flesh.“I do wonder how much awareness it actually raised.I think the act took away from the cause,” Yone told news.com.au.“I still don’t know if it was for body positivity or cycle safety.“From an overall impact or awareness perspective, it didn’t work on me.“It’ll just be an experience and a story I tell friends.”Yone said the organisers did a “great job” in getting the word out about the event.“It was definitely a well put together event because there were multiple spots across the city where the rides were happening,” he said.Standing on the streets of London also got Yone thinking about how far behind Australia is when it comes to public eccentricity.“I think we are a bit too conservative in Australia, especially in certain cities,” Yone claimed.While he compared the eccentric nature of the ride to Sydney’s Mardi Gras, he noted ...