Vulnerable woman assaulted by cyclist in 'sickening' attack in Melton

A vulnerable woman will spend weeks in hospital after a bike rider mowed her down and kicked her in the back during a "disturbing" random attack in Melbourne's outer-west.

Melinda, 52, was walking on Unitt Street in Melton on Tuesday afternoon when a man on a bike approached her from behind and launched a "sickening" attack.

The woman suffered a broken knee cap, black eyes and cuts.

She also smashed her head on the concrete, causing a concussion.

The woman has undergone knee surgery, but will need to spend at least six weeks in hospital to recover, followed by a "lengthy" rehabilitation process.

Detective Acting Sergeant Jessica Kas said the attack was "completely unprovoked".

"It was absolutely a deliberate attack," Detective Sergeant Kas said.

"Prior to the attack itself, the offenders were actually riding on the road in the opposite direction.

"The offender has spotted the victim walking along the footpath, has done a U-turn, mounted the footpath and has essentially mowed her down, kicked her in the back.

"I think the most disturbing part of this whole incident is it what so random and unprovoked."

The woman, who suffers from a mental illness, went for walks as a form of therapy, which made the attack even more disturbing, Detective Sergeant Kas said.

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"The impact this will have on her and her family is absolutely devastating," she said.

Detective Sergeant Kas said the attack would face serious charges and encouraged him, or anyone who knows him, to come forward.

"If he's capable of carrying out this sort of attack on a vulnerable person I hate to think what else he could be capable of," she said.

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Bystanders stopped to help the injured woman, but the offender rode off with another man on bikes.

Police have released CCTV footage of two men who could assist detectives with enquiries, as well as photos of the man who kicked the woman.

The first man is described to be in his late teens to early 20s, with a bright blue hooded jumper, black backpack, black cap and dark-coloured pants.

The second man is also perceived to be in his late teens to early 20s and wore a grey hooded jumper, beige cap, dark-coloured pants and shoes.

The pair were both riding black bikes.

Anyone who recognises the men, witnessed the assault or has any information that could assist investigators is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.