Caroline Treacy, biochemistry student, and her biking father, Owen
Who was the driving force behind the interest in biking?
Definitely our parents. Our mum and dad were never without two wheels. I think we were on a bike before we were in a car.
Anyone in the family who does not like bikes? Yeah, the dogs! They've never learned how to ride a bike and we can't seem to get gear to fit them.
Have there always been bikes in the family?
Well, Dad's grandfather had an outfit and Dad had his first bike at 13. My brother, Sean, and myself had a Honda 50cc mini trial when I was 12. At the moment Sean has taken time out from motorcycling because of exams and excessive insurance costs.
Do your parents worry about their children having accidents? Naturally! Of course . . . but proper gear and training is nearly essential before the decision to buy a bike.
What sort of training have you and Sean been through?
We've been through the basis Fingal County Council training and I have a full licence for the past two years.
Any advanced motorcyclists among you?
No . . . but does 18K in two years count - Dad goes everywhere on his bike.
Your current machines?
Dad has a Yamaha GTS 1000 and I have a Honda Dominator 650.
What are your next bikes likely to be?
Dad is quite happy but I wouldn't mind the Suxuki SV1000 . . . have to be on par with the boyfriend . . . he's notched ahead temporarily on a R1.
Are any bikes off-limits to the family?
Harley Davidsons - we're real motocyclists.
What's the longest journey you've taken as a family on the bikes?
To Denmark last year and the south of Spain this year - with the FIM through the Dublin Motorcycling Touring Club.
What would be your dream road trip?
I'd love a hen party of biker women. Can you imagine the madness! Mum and Dad just sit on their bike and go . . . wouldn't be surprised if I got a call from Timbuktu.
Has anybody in the family had any accidents?
Yes . . . but what biker hasn't. It was nothing serious - just a bit of injured pride.
Do you also own a family car?
Yes, but it's always been two wheels before four.
Do you think motorcycling is still seen as male-dominated?
Thank God no! Motorbikes are getting lighter in weight and more manageable. Most manufacturers now have to consider women drivers and rightly so.
What do you dislikes about driving your motorbike?
Driving into town. It would be easier if you could just use the bus lanes. Instead you're filtering between cars - extremely dangerous - and all the drivers seem to have tunnel vision. Dublin Corporation please take note - it lays down the requirements, the Gardai just enforce them.