Crossword Genius

Male bikers, as it were, cycling — pardon? (8)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

clemency

'pardon?' is the definition.
(I know that pardon can be written as clemency)

I don't understand the rest of the clue.

(Other definitions for clemency that I've seen before include "The quality of mercy" , "Leniency and compassion towards offenders" , "Mercy, lenience" , "Mercy or charity" , "Readiness to forgive" .)

I've seen this clue in The Times.
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