Alan Duffy, project engineer
Rides: Yamaha YZFR-6
Tell us why you chose this machine? The performance, handling and the advanced technological features that Yamaha built into this year's R6 drew me. In my mind its styling also makes it stand apart from most current sport bikes.
Why become a biker? For the freedom that two wheels gives you, whether on the open road or commuting through city traffic.
Did you take any motorcycle training? Not initially, because like most riders in my age bracket training wasn't really available when I took to the roads on two wheels at first. However, given the advances in machine capabilities and the increase in traffic volumes these days, I decided that training was a necessity. I'm currently taking an advanced riding course for the road and have taken training at the track also.
What does your insurance cost? €1,349.
Do you drive a car? No I currently don't drive a car.
What does your family think of you taking to the roads on a bike? All my family are fully supportive of my biking. My son in particular loves to come out on the bike with me, and my daughter can't wait for her sixteenth birthday to get her 125 provisional licence.
Do you worry about your survival as a biker? I'm aware of my vulnerability on the bike, and try to offset this by doing the training and wearing good protective equipment; however, I do not worry unduly.
What do you use your Yamaha YZFR-6 for? Everything from my daily commute to work to spins away at weekends and the occasional track day.
Had any accidents? Just a couple of small spills that resulted in little more than dented pride.
Are you a motor sports fan? Yes, I'm a big fan of Irish Road Racing and try to get to as many meetings as I can. I also like to watch the MotoGP and F1.
Have you taken any biking trips abroad? I took a trip to Scotland last year, and plan to spend 10 days in California on a hired bike this autumn.
Have you any suggestions on how to improve conditions for bikers in Ireland? A general improvement in road surfacing would benefit all road users but bikers in particular. And it would be really fantastic to be allowed to use bus lanes in the cities.
What are your tips for safety on two wheels? Buy the very best safety equipment that you can afford, and invest in training.
What's your dream machine? If money were no object, the Ducati Desmoseidici.