Does seem odd, I just hate how races even have special abilities. It can make certain choices just seem strange rp wise, making an ork magic user or a kajit knight ect.
I think that's the point. Ork mages and Khajiit knights are uncommon to those races and cultures -- it doesn't mean you can't be one if you so choose, but it makes it somewhat awkward, and you'll never be as proficient as those born to that particular style of combat. The racial abilities can add a lot of flavor to role playing if you choose to go against the flow.