UCI's Disciplinary Commission handed Bracke the suspension following allegations reported by several riders.

French rider Marion Sicot is among those to report him, with complaints that he demanded bikini photos of them.

Sicot said it "feels good" that the verdict was handed down on a post on Twitter.

His conduct was found to breach article 6.4 of the UCI Code of Ethics which covers protection of physical and mental integrity, with article 2.3 of the appendix 1 of the Code covering sexual harassment too.

In addition to his ban and a condition of being granted a new license, Bracke must take part in a harassment awareness programme delivered by a recognised professional institution.

Doltcini-Van Eyck have said Bracke will appeal against the ban.

"The UCI supports all people wishing to denounce such acts, whether they are victims or witnesses of conduct that does not conform to our Federation's rules of conduct," read a statement from the governing body.

Recently, the UCI adopted measures to effectively prevent and sanction all forms of abuse in cycling.

An integrity and education manager is set to be appointed by the end of September too.

The UCI Ethics Commission has been given full sanctioning powers, which will reduce the length and complexity of proceedings.