Valentino Rossi staying on two wheels for now

MotoGP world champion Valentino Rossi has shelved plans to switch from bikes to cars for now, saying he still has time left on the motorcycle circuit.

Rossi, who has won nine world titles on two wheels, was pondering whether to stay at Yamaha or switch to car racing when his contract runs out at the end of the forthcoming season.

"There are not many changes in a man's body between 22 and 34 so I still have some time left," the 30-year-old Italian told media on Monday.

"I would consider shifting to cars, probably rallying, after that before I finally decide to take it easy."

Rossi has taken part in many car rallies, finishing second in the Monza rally in Italy in November and was close to driving for Ferrari in Formula One at the end of 2006.

"When I finish with bikes, I might want to see some seasons in rallying. I know F1 would've been easier but by the time I finish MotoGP, I will be too old for F1."