The bike companies launched by former Olympic and Tour de France cyclist Chris Boardman has been bought by Halfords.

The listed Redditch-based retailer has acquired Boardman Bikes and Boardman International in an undisclosed deal.

Halfords already has an exclusivity deal to sell the Boardman Performance Series in the UK and Ireland while the Boardman Elite Series is sold at selected independent cycling retailers in the UK and USA. Both ranges are also sold in other international territories.

Boardman Bikes will remain a standalone entity with the Halfords group and continue to be led by managing director Andy Smallwood and Chris Boardman as chairman and design director.

Athletes who have ridden Boardman bikes include Nicole Cooke, Britain's first Olympic road-racing champion, Olympic triathletes Alistair and Jonathan Brownlee and Ironman triathlon world champion Pete Jacobs.

Mr Boardman said: "We look forward to building on the success we have had to date with independent retailers, in international markets and with Halfords.

"This step will take the brand to the next level and their backing will allow us to further develop our research and development and extend our award-winning cycling ranges."

Halfords chief executive Matt Davies said: "Our investment in Boardman Bikes, which have been ridden by multiple Olympic and world champions, demonstrates our growing position as a specialist cycling retailer.

"We have worked with Chris and his team since 2007. They have created one of the most important, fastest-growing and successful brands in UK cycling.

"We look forward to a continuation of the growth that both Boardman and Halfords have enjoyed with such a strong brand."

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