Liam Foley, Production Manager and motorcycle instructor
Your bike?
A BMW R 1200 GS and Yamaha 250 Majesty
Why these machines?
I love big trailies and the GS is the best in that category. I use it for training and going to work. I like to have the Majesty for messing around on.
Why were you drawn to two wheels?
I feel safer on two wheels because you are involved in the journey and not just a passenger.
Did you take any rider training?
Not before I started biking but very soon afterwards thanks to Seamus Kelly and the excellent Star rider course run by Fingal County Council.
What does your insurance cost?
€750 for fully comprehensive.
Do you worry about your survival as a biker? I take responsibility for my own safety so I regularly update my skills. There are some excellent courses out there.
What do you use your bike for?
Commuting, training and touring.
Have you ever had an accident?
On June 13th 1999 I had a minor accident and was astounded that my perceived ability did not match my actual ability. It hurt.
Do you follow motorcycle sports?
I followed the exploits of road racers Ray Murray and John Killeen until their retirement. They are friends of mine and both competed in the Isle of Man TT then retired after that.
I also enjoy watching Valentino Rossi in the Moto GP.
Have you taken any trips abroad on two wheels?
Yes, I go away with a group of friends. We try to do it annually.
Last year we went to Pamplona and Andorra, it was spectacular. This year I hope to go to Norway and the Nuremberg Ring.
What you do think is the bond that bikers share?
I'm not sure what the recipe is, maybe it's the fact that we are so vulnerable and that unites us in some way.
What, if any, has been your worst experience with motorists?
I haven't had any particularly bad experiences with other motorists.
I can understand their frustrations though, being caged in going nowhere and sometimes I find I have to address my own attitude to them.
Are there any issues you think the Minister for Transport should address for bikers?
It's not rocket science; I think all road users need regular training and education. I also think the speed limits are too uniform. They don't make sense. You can go faster on some roads and need to go slower on others.
I also think the government is trying to curb the use of motorbikes rather than deal with the issue by introducing compulsory training for all.
Any tips for survival? No matter what your age or experience get some proper training. You will love it.
If you won the lottery what would be your dream bike? Another BMW R 1200 GS and maybe a CBR 600 RR for track days.