Peter Rhys Thomas, retired Church of Ireland priest
Your first machine? A Ducati Cucciolo in 1954 - it had a 48 cc OHV engine with two gears attached to a bicycle frame. Erratic and exciting, followed by a reliable and boring M20 BSA.
What drew you to motorbikes? They were in mind from the age of 10. Being at school with some of the guys who started the Motor Enthusiasts Club, plus spectating at trials and grasstracks, had an effect. The Cucciolo (£7/10/0 in very old money) was all I could afford and it had a lovely sound.
Your current machine? A 2001 Yamaha Fazer 600 - for €3,900 (a trade-in was involved). There were a few add-ons, such as engine bars (€70) and rear-wheel hugger (€85). Fully comprehensive insurance was €480.
How much do you spend on gear? Only get one body in this life so: jacket (with armour) €180; waterproof trousers with armour €130; helmet €180; gloves €45 and boots €120. All are a few years old now, but if you buy quality you usually get longevity.
What's your next bike likely to be? A 500 cc Royal Enfield with electric start, made in India. Very retro, virtually the same as the Royal Enfield built in England back in the 1960s, but with better electrics. Quirky enough to be fun.
Your longest journey on the bike? 180 miles - Cork to Finea in Westmeath last September.
Ever had an accident on? Yes. Back in 1960 going to work in England on the A570 on black ice. The bike and self parted company and proceeded horizontally side-by-side for 100 yards. A works lorry picked up bruised self and dented bike for the rest of the journey.
Is there any biking heritage in the family? My father rode a 3¾ hp (348 cc) Douglas in the 1920s.
Do you belong to any motorcycle clubs? Yes. MAG (Motorcycle Action Group) and CMA (Christian Motorcyclists Association). CMA - non-denominational - is numerically tiny in the Republic. It's active in the North with prayer fellowships, invitations to church youth clubs, and a presence at major bike races and shows. A bigger membership in the South would be good. Any expressions of interest will be forwarded.
Any motorcyclists who bring disrepute to the fraternity? Yes! Those who ride recklessly fast without consideration for other road users. However, I've always found that the traditional camaraderie of the road applies to most folk I meet on bikes.
What gets in the way of enjoying biking? Potholes, loose gravel, mud, surfaces dangerous for two-wheel transport - Castledermot's ribbed main street - and oblivious car drivers who make defensive riding essential for self-preservation, which is a very good thing.