During his trip to South Africa to meet with his new Dimension Data team, Mark Cavendish took time out yesterday to try out a different sport.
The former World Champion joined up with MotoGP rider Cal Crutchlow to try out a race motorbike for the first time at Killarney Race Track in Cape Town. The pair are friends, spending time together training.
“In the winter I basically turn into a professional cyclist,” Crutchlow told BBC Sport in a previous interview. “I live on the Isle of Man when I’m not travelling around the world racing, and that is where Mark is from.
“It’s only a small island and you soon get to know everyone. We met a few times out on our bikes and now, whenever me and Mark are both in the Isle of Man we train together a lot. I try and go and see him race when he’s in Europe and he comes to watch a few MotoGP rounds if he can.
“I ride a lot with Mark. There is a big mutual respect between us, we both love each other’s sports. It crosses over well and we are good friends.
Cavendish seemed pleased with his efforts as he tweeted afterwards: “When I grow up, I want to be @calcrutchlow.. Got my knee down & everything! ”
According to Jonny Towers who helped organise the track session, the Manxman was also pretty skilful on the bike, as he tweeted: “Turns out the @MarkCavendish can ride a Moto pretty fast too. First time on a track and only 3 secs off lap record”
Look at the ball of sweat he’s in. Riding a bike is hard work, even when it has a big engine!
Now do you believe me Andrew Irwin.
See Frank McIlhenny. Johnny Jonny Drummond
Neil Henderson.
Two wheeled cousins.
Told you Johnny Reid
True words David
Me and Mark are cousins through drink!
keep the rubber side down Cav. don’t be sticking the head in where its not needed.