Lance Armstrong has urged his fans not to "cry" for him following the US Anti-Doping Agency's decision to strip of him seven Tour de France titles.

Armstrong made his first public appearance on Saturday since he announced he would no longer contest the doping charges levelled against him.

The Texan was riding in a 36-mile mountain bike race in Aspen, Colorado, where he finished second behind 16-year-old rider Keegan Swirbul.

"Nobody needs to cry for me, I'm going to be great," said Armstrong.

Foundation unaffected

"I have five great kids and a wonderful lady in my life. My foundation is unaffected by all the noise out there.

"I think people understand that we've got a lot of stuff to do going forward. That's what I'm focused on and I think people are supportive of that. It's great to be out here."

The USADA handed out a lifetime ban to Armstrong, who retired last year, and they say his decision not to contest their latest charges also means his results will be wiped out, including his successes on Le Tour.

The International Cycling Union have demanded USADA hand over its evidence before giving any further comment on potential sanctions.

Cycling's governing body could choose to appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport in Switzerland against the USADA ruling, or to gain jurisdiction over the case.