Best British rider of all time?

Tommy Simpson. Not only was he quite a lot better than nearly everyone who came afterwards, but by his death on the Tour de France, the world became aware of the problems of drugs in sports. After his death, dope tests became widespread and routine and punishments became harsher.

More importantly, sportsmen and sportswomen were suddenly aware that using performance-enhancing drugs could actually kill you, even if you were in the prime of your life. For most, it just isn't worth the risk.

Tommy Simpson is probably the most well known for road racing, but Chris Boardman is really a track cyclist or a time trialer, so my vote goes to Tommy Simpson.

I think it was Graeme Obree. He wasn't just a cycling phenomenon he was a great innovator. He broke the world record on a home made bike while Boardman needed one that cost several thousand pounds. I think Chris Hoy comes a close second- no Briton has won the world sprint title since the 1950s and he already has the Olympic gold in the kilo. I admit to being biased though because I'm Scottish.

I'd say Chris Boardman. He easily has the most pro wins of any Brit.

Best all round British female cyclist and possibly the finest female cyclist ever, Beryl Burton.

Best ever male British track cyclist, Reg Harris.

Best ever road cyclist, so far, Tommy Simpson, followed by Barry Hoban,Hugh Porter,Robert Miller,Sean Yates.

probably not the answer you're looking for,but lets not forget simon tabron,the first guy to land back to back 900's in competition.bmx is now being taken far more seriously,and is getting a lot of young people interested in cycling as a whole,which can only be a good thing.we in the uk have a lot of talent going to the usa where the sport is less frowned upon. also i think its a lot more exiting for the spectator.so dont forget our bmx stars flying the flag for the uk!!! tabron,bestwick etc etc ;)

How about Mark Cavendish or Bradley Wiggins or Sean Yates?

I've always been a fan of the Flying Scot. :-)

I've been a fan of John Surtees, more on four wheels than two, but John's two-wheelers tended to have motors on them. Kind of takes him out of this question.

I'm the best rider or so the women say anyway :-D

I think it was John Surtees

alan gardiner