Shouldn't you be watching the Olympics? David Beckham shows off his custom chopper in Los Angeles days after proudly driving torch down the Thames

By Mike Larkin


After putting in years of work to bring the Olympics to London you would think David Beckham would be glued to his television screen.

But the English legend preferred to show off his riding skills today as he took his custom built 93 Knucklehead for a spin in Los Angeles.

The midfielder looked quite the bad boy as he zoomed through the streets of Venice astride his classic chopper.

Knucklehead: David Beckham showed off his chopper as he zoomed through the streets of Los Angeles today

All the hoopla that followed the 37-year-old's appearance at the opening ceremony of the event last week seemed to have been forgotten as he enjoyed a relaxing lunch in the trendy Venice Beach area.

Much was made of the fact he was left out of the Great Britain Olympic football squad, despite the fact the past-his-best star is playing in the much maligned MLS in the U.S.

However his work to get the UK selected as the host nation was rewarded, as he got to pretend to steer the speedboat carrying the Olympic flame to Sir Steve Redgrave during the opening ceremony, who then ran the torch into the stadium.

The former Manchester United player looked far removed from the traditional biker image of leather jacket and jeans.

Instead he donned a pair white trousers, brown shoes, black T-shirt and a suede coat.


Riding on a full stomach: The footballer got ready to speed off after leaving popular restaurant Gjelina's


Safety conscious: The former Manchester United player made sure he had his helmet for his ride

Unusual riding attire: David's outfit would certainly not have past muster with Arthur Fonzarelli

But it seems David had a good excuse not to be home watching the sport, as he needs all the practice he can get for a road trip with foul-mouthed chef Gordon Ramsay.

According to the Daily Mirror, the big bike enthusiasts will embark on a 382-mile trip along the Pacific Coast Highway, from Los Angeles to San Francisco.

Goldenballs will ride his custom-built 93 Knucklehead, while Ramsay will be on his £20,000 Harley Davidson motorcycle.

But he is not the only big name David likes to ride with - he's also joined Tom Cruise for a spin in the past.

The macho pair started the Midnight Boys Bike Club at the end of 2010, so they can enjoy sessions in the Hollywood Hills together.


Wheels of steel: His vintage motorcycle drew even more glances than he did on his outing


Checking his blind spot: David made sure to look both ways before taking off


Wheely spectacular: David certainly knew how to handle his impressively powerful chopper


At least he is steering this time: David stood pretended to navigate the speedboat but a professional was really operating the controls


source:dailymail