by David Cruz 

Strap on your helmet, tune up the two-wheeler and get set for the 20^th annual Tour de Bronx.

The state’s largest bike outing, according to Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr., is a way of shattering the nagging stigma of the Bronx.

“And the best way to do that is to show people that the Bronx is not what it was, but so much more,” said Diaz, as he stood outside  the Bronx YMCA in Castle Hill, overlooking a scenic view of the East River and Whitestone Bridge.

The largest free bicycling event in the state, the bicycling outing takes place Oct. 26, offering riders a 25 or 40-mile course, both of which culminate at the Botanical Garden.

“Riding in the Tour de Bronx is a healthy way to explore our borough, especially with 6,000 fellow travelers,” Diaz Jr. said. “[It] gives them an opportunity to explore our amazing parks and neighborhoods and discover all the things that make our borough a great place to live, work and raise a family.”

The event looks to draw riders to nearly 60 neighborhoods that include Norwood, Kingsbridge, Riverdale and Mott Haven. Beginning at the Bronx County Building and ending at The New York Botanical Garden, the state’s largest tour is not much of a race but a promotional vehicle showcasing some of the borough’s hidden and well-known gems.

Cyclists can opt for either a 25-mile course or the loftier 40-mile trail that stretches to the northern end of the Bronx. All types of cyclists often take part in the race, from the leisure rider with an elaborate two-wheeler to the more hardcore cyclist in training.

The venue also serves as part conditioning in a borough still lagging in physical fitness that’s tethered to high obesity, asthma and heart rates.

Registration begins at the Bronx County Building, 851 Grand Concourse at 9 a.m. Participants will receive a free bike helmet, courtesy of the city Transportation Department, while supplies last. Sponsorship proceeds will go towards Transportation Alternatives, an advocacy group pushing for a more bike-friendly city.