Mohalenyane Phakela
IT is regarded as a very dangerous form of entertainment but adrenaline junkies just love superbike stunts.
The sport seemed to wane in popularity in 2009 due to several road deaths around Maseru. But super biking is picking up once more and convoys can now be seen on a regular basis in and around the capital.
Up-and-coming motorcycle daredevil, Pitso Ntsukunyane is one of those who believe they have found their calling in the sport, performing various stunts on his Suzuki GSX 750 super bike.
The 20-year-old was one of the entertainers at the launch of Econet’s Kwese TV last weekend where he performed stunts on stage with his bike.
He recently told Xpress People that the Econet gig was his biggest to date and he believed it would open more doors for him.
“The only bookings I got in the past were those of ushering weddings and funerals which I consider small as they pay only M1 000 per day,” he said.
“I would sometimes perform alongside other bikers at several events but then the amount each gets after dividing the money still comes down to that M1 000.
“The Econet gig was by far the biggest I have done which means more money. They applauded my performance, meaning I left a remarkable impression so I believe next time different companies will consider my skills,” he said.
Ntsukunyane got his first bike, a Honda 125CC at the age of 13. He learned to ride on his own and began imitating the stunts he had seen on television. In 2015, he joined Mountain Run Bikers Association where he honed his skills.
He bought his current super bike late last year and he has been receiving appreciation in his hometown of Lithabaneng in Maseru where he is often hired to lead convoys at weddings and funerals. His popularity spread to the neighbouring villages landing him more bookings. He performs stunts such as tyre burnout, rhythmic revving as well as wheelies among others.
His bike is also regarded as one of the strongest as it delivers a breathtaking combination of outstanding engine performance, crisp handling, compact size and light weight.
He is by far the youngest among Lesotho bikers with whom he has travelled to Swaziland, Botswana and South Africa.
“My previous bike became a write-off early last year when I lost control while cruising around Lithabaneng.
It rolled and got damaged but I was not harmed,” he said, adding this turned his family against the sport.
“The other reason they wanted me to stop was because of the previous bike-related deaths that occurred in the country but I convinced them that those were accidents anybody could encounter even when travelling by car.
“It was somehow a blessing in disguise as I needed another bike to make me different from the rest, so I bought this Suzuki GSX 750.
“Most of the local riders are owners (of car fleets, especially taxis) who are above the age of 30 so I am the youngest and what makes me more special is that I own a big bike.”
He said at M100 000 for his current bike, the sport was very expensive, adding protective clothes cost a further M20 000.
He however, said he made enough to cover his expenses.
As much as it was a dangerous sport, Ntsukunyane said riding provided an escape from the drug abuse many of his peers indulged in.
“A person my age is regarded by his peers a loser if he does not drink or smoke, but then the bike has kept me busy and away from such challenges.
“It is more dangerous than drifting cars as it is easier to fall off the bike. It requires a sober mind and a very cautious person. It takes two months or more to perfect one stunt, practicing every day,” he said.
Comments are closed.