LOS ANGELES, June 7 (Xinhua) -- More than 2,500 bicyclists rode into Los Angeles on Saturday, wrapping up a seven-day, 545-mile (886-km) trip that began in San Francisco to raise funds for HIV/AIDS research and services.

    As the bicyclists arrived at the Veterans' Administration complex in West Los Angeles, thousands of friends and supporters were on hand to greet them and take part in a closing ceremony.

    The seventh annual AIDS/LifeCycle ride, which began last Sunday, raised a record 11.6 million dollars for the L.A. Gay & Lesbian Center and the San Francisco AIDS Foundation. According to organizers, the annual event has raised more than 40 million dollars since its inception.

    AIDS/LifeCycle 7 set a new record for participation and money raised, attracting cyclists from 12 countries and 42 states, including a contingent of people living with HIV known as the Positive Pedalers.

    The 545-mile trek from San Francisco is the largest annual HIV/AIDS fundraiser in the country. Some 60,000 people donated a record 11.6 million dollars.

    "For seven days, this remarkable community of riders, roadies and donors traveled together down the California coast to make life better for people with HIV and AIDS," said Mark Cloutier, CEO of the San Francisco AIDS Foundation.

    "Their support will help us devise new tools to prevent HIV infections and improve treatment and care for people living with HIV. Every year, AIDS/LifeCycle brings us closer to a world where HIV no longer threatens the health and happiness of those we love," Cloutier said.

    "We've made many advances in the struggle against HIV and AIDS, but the fight is far from over," said Lorri Jean, chief executive officer of the L.A. Gay & Lesbian Center.

    During the time it took them to reach Los Angeles, more than 1,000 Americans will become newly infected with HIV, he said.

    "What's more, HIV continues to be nothing less than a health care crisis internationally and in our own backyard. The 3,000 riders and volunteer roadies -- and the 60,000 people who sponsor them -- are raising awareness and making a statement that we will not stand idle in the face of the monumental challenge before us."

    Along the route, organizers and participants distributed free premium condoms -- in packages labeled "Ride Safe" -- to HIV/AIDS organizations and community clinics.

    This year's event included the largest number of riders ever, with participants ranging in experience from novice to expert. The riders range in age from 18 to 81, and each must raise at least 2,500 dollars to take part.

    According to event organizers, an estimated 160,000 Californians are living with HIV/AIDS, and many are unaware of their infection.