The Raffles Hotel in Perth bans Lycra after patrons complain they are ‘disgusted’ by the tight-fitting cyclewear

A WEEK after denying its ban on cyclists was linked to complaints about their ‘smelly’ and ‘revealing’ outfits, Perth’s Raffles Hotel has adopted a ‘no Lycra’ policy.

Young Male Cyclist With His Bicycle on race

A WEEK after Perth’s Raffles Hotel denied banning cyclists following complaints diners were “disgusted” by the smell and appearance of their Lycra outfits, the hotel has adopted a “no Lycra policy”.

The West Australian reported last week that four cyclists were denied service by a waiter because they were clad in Lycra.

In response to the story, the hotel management posted a “clarification” on Facebook, insisting that the problem had nothing to do with what the riders were wearing but because a lack of bike racks was creating a potential safety hazard.

Lycra-free: The Raffles Hotel in Applecross, Perth.

“It is true that over the last few weeks some groups of cyclists have been refused service at the Hotel, whereas individuals and cyclist couples have been welcomed and served over the same period,” the post said.

“The reason for this is there are inadequate bike racking facilities around the hotel and historically large groups of cyclists have caused the local residents, public and subsequently the hotel ongoing issues by leaving their bikes on the paths, walls and grassed areas that surround the hotel.

“This decision was never a dress code issue, and if dress was communicated as the reason by our staff then we apologise for the misunderstanding and assure everyone that this is not the case. We have identified how this miscommunication occurred over the weekend, and have now clarified the reasons for our service decision with all staff.”

Raffles is virtually accused of lying by one of four cyclists refused service by one of its waiters.

However, few users bought that explanation, accusing management of “copping out” and “backtracking” after bad publicity in the media.

They also took the opportunity to reiterate just how much they hated sharing space with cyclists, who were often “on the nose”, particularly after a long, sweaty ride. They were also offended by “fat” and “old” riders spilling out of their outfits.

After being bombarded by cyclist-haters — many of them patrons — the hotel did a backflip and erected a sign announcing a new “no-Lycra policy”.

Patrons were less-than complimentary about their bicycle-riding peers.

There were many references to sweat puddles on Facebook.

Raffles initially blamed its ban on Lycra-clad cyclists on a misunderstanding between staff and management.