Steven Rees, senior data analyst, Microsoft
Your bike? A 1999 Suzuki Bandit 600S
Why the Suzuki Bandit? It was recommended to me by my mechanic as a good bullet-proof bike for my 35-mile daily commute to work, and so far it hasn't let me down.
When did you become a biker? After the birth of my second child, my wife decided to take up the full-time position of home-maker. This job requires a car - my car. I live on the northside of Dublin and work on the south. Public transport could not meet my needs, so an alternative had to be found. My Dad and brother had had a couple of bikes years ago and so it was my turn to give it a go. After I got over the initial nervousness of driving in Dublin rush hour traffic I was hooked.
Did you take any rider training? I regret to say that I didn't take any training before throwing my leg over, but not long afterwards I took a course that Fingal County Council run. I would recommend everyone to take this or a similar course. I learned loads and use what I was taught every day.
What does your insurance cost? A good question - too much. The fact that there is a complete monopoly on insurance means that we are paying way over the odds for it.
Do you drive a car? I drive a car out of necessity rather than desire.
Do you worry about your safety? Yes and No. If I am hit, chances are it will hurt. However, I don't intend to be hit so I try to drive defensively. It's all about concentration and awareness. My first bike - a DR125 - was too slow to get out of trouble. My current bike can be driven very sensibly and can easily get out of trouble when the need arises. I am of the attitude that all drivers are idiots - that way it is my responsibility to ensure they don't hit me.
Do you think more people are taking to two wheels as a result of traffic congestion? I believe we are going to go through a revolution in Dublin. Bike ownership is on the up. It doesn't make sense for many drivers to be stuck in their car for hours on end. While initially there will be more accidents, eventually there will be more bikes and cars will have to be more aware of us. Either that or the roads will soon grind to a halt with cars bumper to bumper and bikes filtering through the steaming hunks of metal. The government will eventually have to recognise the benefits and give us the use of the bus lane.
Ever had an accident? Not yet. Maybe it's luck, maybe it's my attitude, maybe it will happen on my way home tonight.
Are you a member of any motorcycle clubs? I recently joined The Motor Racing Marshals Club of Ireland (MRMCI), their website is: www.mrmci.com They're a great bunch of people who all love bikes for different reasons. So far I have only marshalled in Mondello, but the group do road racing too. I get the best seat in the house at races and am more than a spectator.
Any tips for survival? Wear good gear and keep your bike in good condition. Remember if you are hit it will hurt, so treat every other road user as an idiot because they probably are. Put yourself in their position - you have to pity them. If you do all this you should be a happy biker for years to come.