Superbike ace goes wing walking

What is it with these ex-superbike riders? First it was Troy Bayliss abseiling down a tall building in Brisbane a few months ago, and now former three-time British superbike champion, John Reynolds, has just enjoyed a spot of wing walking on the Isle of Man.

In town for the TT races, Reynolds, a keen pilot, spent over 20 minutes wing walking on a 1940s biplane, and was wearing his full race leathers and a crash helmet.

Not so sure what the leathers were all about, but it was probably a bit too cold for shorts and a flannelette shirt.

"I have to say I was a little apprehensive before the flight," said Reynolds, probably understating his position a little. "Although I'm very comfortable and used to being in a plane, standing on a wing is an entirely different thing, but once we were in flight I absolutely loved it.

"The wind pressure was the biggest challenge, particularly wearing my helmet, but having done it now, I have huge respect for what the girls do during a display."

Reynolds also competed in 144 world superbike races during his career, mainly for Suzuki, and finished on the podium four times for one win.

He now works for Relentless Suzuki, which fields two antipodeans - Aussie Cameron Donald and New Zealander Bruce Anstey.

Donald set the fastest ever lap around the Isle of Man early last week, but then crashed 24 hours later in another practice session, dislocating his shoulder and forcing him out of the event.