MEET the man known as Mr G from phase 2 Slovo in Winterveldt, north of Tshwane.
Gontse Mashigo (23), a cop by profession, said his love of biking started when he was in high school.
While it took him a while to earn the money he needed to buy his own bike, he never lost hope of becoming a rider one day.
When an uncle was involved in an accident, it was Mr G who took the damaged quad bike and rebuilt it with new parts. This would be his very first ride, a Suzuki LT Z400.
“That was in 2014. Last year, I built my second motorbike from a selection of loose parts I collected from everywhere.
“My third bike is a Yamaha YFZ 250cc – it’s the one I ride now.”
Q: Is anyone else allowed to ride it?
A: My little brother, Mohau, and some of my friends can. I’m strict when it comes to my bikes because other people won’t treat them like I do. I let people ride them to avoid fights, but only if I trust them first.
If you don’t want to let someone ride your bike, don’t let them!
Q: Have you been on any long distance trips yet?
A: Yes, I went to Lebotlwane in North West, which is about 150km from Pretoria.
But I also ride a lot around Pretoria. To be honest, I really enjoy riding. I find great pleasure in biking, exploring amakasi and making new friends where I ride.
Q: Is this your dream bike?
A: No, but I love it.
Q: How often do you ride?
A: I ride any chance I get. I don’t count the times I ride. I just ride.
But most of my riding is done on weekends. You will never find me hanging around on a Saturday or Sunday – I’m always out on my bike.
I prefer travelling on a bike than a car.
Q: How often do you get traffic fines?
A: You won’t believe me if I tell you I have never had one. I’m very fortunate.
After the cops stop me I just get warnings, but no fines.
Q: Do you have a licence for riding?
A: Not yet, only a learner’s licence for now. But I’m working on getting my full rider’s licence soon.
Q: Tell us about your outfit?
A: It’s a Honda jacket, helmet and skeleton mask. I think it’s important that riders wear their outfits when they go out to ride.
Safety always comes first when riding.
Q: Do you belong to a bike club?
A: Yes, I ride with a team of bikers. I founded a club called Reckless Team and we all wear its slogan: Ride or DIE!
