Ian O'Connor: Senior Systems Analyst, Microsoft
Rides: Honda Deauville
Why this bike? I primarily needed a bike for commuting to work, but also wanted something fun which I could take touring or away for short weekend breaks. Being my sole means of transport, I needed plenty of storage space. It also had to be easy to maintain and inexpensive to run. I ended up choosing the Deauville as it covered everything I was looking for. I had to put up with some stick from my mates as it has a reputation of being a dull "oul' fella's" bike. The ironic thing is that my best friend ended up getting one he was so impressed.
Why two rather than four wheels? I drove a car for years before moving to bikes. The ever-worsening traffic conditions became too much and I decided to ditch the car, and move on to two wheels. I started out on an Aprilia Habana moped, and then moved to riding a Yamaha TDR 125 before getting the Deauville. I haven't looked back since.
Have you done any rider training? Yes, but a lot of riders don't. This is risky as the first few months are when a rider is most at risk of an accident. I think compulsory basic training should be mandatory in Ireland.
Do you worry about your survival as a biker? Yes, and because of this I have completed Hibernian's motorbike Ignition course. My ultimate goal is to take the RoSPA advanced riding test.
What do you use your bike for? I use my bike for commuting to and from work. The summer months are a great chance for my girlfriend Mary and I to take the bike away on weekend breaks. Basically if the weather is good we are gone!
Any accidents? No. I am biking five years and have never dropped any of my bikes. I will be a happy man if I can go another five years accident-free.
Taken any trips abroad on two wheels? I am taking my first bike trip abroad this May. A gang of us are driving down to Le Mans for the French MotoGP. We will spend the remainder of the holiday touring Normandy before our trip home. Bike holidays are meant to be brilliant and I am really looking forward to it.
What's the bond that links bikers closer than motorists? There is nothing like the freedom and exhilaration you feel when riding a motorcycle. On the road, bikers are a minority so the bond of respect and admiration exists because you know that you are part of an elite few which basically "get-it".
Have you had any bad experiences with motorists? I have had a few close calls but thankfully nothing serious. Motorists pulling out in front of me and passengers opening doors are probably the most common incidents. These are things you must anticipate so staying really alert and focused is critical when riding.
Any tips for survival? One-third of motorcycle accidents are caused because the driver of the other vehicle simply didn't see the motorcyclist. With this in mind, always drive with your headlight on, and wear a reflective belt or jacket. It is also important to keep a cool head and be patient when riding. Stay alert and keep the rubber on the road.
If you won the lottery what would be your dream bike? Honda VFR 800