Tens of thousands of people are expected to watch and ride in the massively popular RideLondon-Surrey bike events that will pass through Esher and Kingston this weekend (August 3-4).

The Prudential RideLondon-Surrey's '100', '46' and '19' mass cycling events will see participants cycle across miles of roads closed especially for the event between the Surrey countryside and central London.

Meanwhile, the "Classique" and "Classic" routes are endorsed by the Union CycIiste Internationale (UCI), and will feature some of the world's best cyclists.

The courses span stretches of the route that featured in the Cycling Road Race at London's 2012 Olympic Games, with the final 19-mile stretch that passing directly through Kingston.

Participants of the larger "100" event is taking place on Saturday and will start in London before heading out into Surrey.

On Sunday, those opting for the 19-mile route will get going at Sandown Park in Esher and finish at London's Mall outside Buckingham Palace.

Dubbed "the world's greatest festival of cycling", RideLondon-Surrey was developed by the Mayor of London and has been held every year since 2013.

"Prudential RideLondon provides a fantastic platform to help fulfil The Mayor and Transport for London (TfL)’s goal of encouraging more people to cycle more safely, more often.

"TfL anticipates tens of thousands of spectators and participants every year will take up regular cycling after each event. This will be achieved by creating massive engagement with participants, spectators and media alike.

"There is no other closed-road event like it that combines the fun and accessible element of a free family ride in central London with the excitement of watching the world’s best professional cyclists race in the Prudential RideLondon-Surrey Classic and Prudential RideLondon Classique," a spokesperson for the event said.

The Prudential RideLondon-Surrey is broken down into several categories, including the most-challenging 100-mile route, the 19-mile route and the competitive "Classique" event that runs for 3.4 kilometres exclusively through central London.

Ahead of the events, Surrey Police urged participants to consider taking added measures to protect their bikes during and after the ride.

"If you’re taking part, you’ve probably spent the past week preparing. Why not register your bike on Immobilise while you’re at it?

"It improves your chances of getting your bike back if it is lost or stolen," a Surrey Police spokesperson said, referring to the Immobilise app, which helps police recover stolen items.

Meanwhile, water sponsors Thames Water urged all the cyclists taking part to stay hydrated.

"Don’t forget to stay hydrated when you’re out on your bike – you should aim to drink 500ml every hour, or more if it’s hot.

"We’re the official water provider of @RideLondon this weekend, so make sure you bring a bottle to top up with tap! #TaptasticNotPlastic," a Thames Water spokesperson said.