The fatal crash happened on the westbound carriageway of the A8, between the Langbank and Woodhead roundabouts in the Port Glasgow area, at about 7.10pm on Tuesday.
Police Scotland said the incident involved a blue Ford C-Max Zetec and three cyclists.
Iain McTavish, 46, was pronounced dead at the scene.
Two other male cyclists, aged 27 and 37, were taken to hospital.
The 33-year-old male driver of the Ford was also taken to hospital, but has since been released.
In a statement released through the force, Mr McTavish’s family said: “Iain studied at Glasgow University and gained an MA honours and masters in philosophy.
“He was a very active cyclist who competed in events throughout Scotland.
“He was much loved and a valuable member of the community. I will miss him every day.”
Mr McTavish was a member of Johnstone Wheelers Cycling Club.
In a tribute on social media on Wednesday, the club said: “Today we’re all reeling from the awful news yesterday.
“Iain McTavish was killed yesterday evening whilst riding with the bunch.
“This will take a long time to sink in and process, but for now suffice it to say that we are devastated at the loss of one of cycling’s good guys.”
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Police are urging anyone with information about the collision to contact them.
Sergeant Jack Swindells said: “Our thoughts are with Iain’s family at what is an extremely difficult time for them.
“Enquiries remain ongoing to establish the full circumstances and we are continuing to appeal to anyone who witnessed the crash to come forward.
“If you were driving in the area at the time, please check any dashcam footage to see if it has captured anything which could assist our investigation.”
