Rick Robinson, sales rep
Your bike? A Honda CBR 1000F
Why the Honda CBR 1000F? CBRs have a reputation for being "bullet proof" and comfortable on long runs. It also looks great which helped.
Why did you become a biker? Traffic - and because I love bikes. Biking is purely for enjoyment and, as I'm a sales rep, using both bikes and cars gives me an understanding of the difficulties and dangers of both. When I'm in the car and a bike passes me I always wish I was on my bike, but I never wish I was in my car when I'm on my bike.
Taken any rider training? Not with my first bike. I was 19 and I bought a Yamaha RD 350LC - I just wanted to get motoring, thinking I was indestructible. Luckily I've never had an accident, but I took a break from bikes for 10 years or so which made me think I should take a refresher course before jumping on a 1000cc. I'd recommend anyone to take a course before riding bikes - prevention is better then cure in the case of biking as you may not get a second chance.
Do you worry about your safety? Of course, I know the dangers to look out for. I wear a high visibility jacket to be seen and all the right safety gear for protection . . . but it's the condition of the Irish roads that might be fatal.
What do you use your bike for? Touring and getting in and out of town quickly.
Where do you go touring? Just recently a few of us went over to Wales - the roads were perfect for biking, with sweeping bends, smooth surfaces and no potholes or loose chippings - they were great. I'd like to go to Portugal next, the long way . . . especially if I time it to arrive for the Faro bike show.
Why do you think bikers are so passionate about biking? I think bikers have more interest in the machines they're riding and more respect for the open road. Or maybe it's because only two per cent of all vehicles on the roads are bikes.
Any bad experiences with motorists? Nothing too serious, just motorists pulling out in front without looking. Car drivers should understand that bikes have an area the size of the palm of the hand touching the road - it's not much grip to stop in any condition. In Ireland two out of three motorbike crashes involve a car.
What's on your wish list for the new transport minister? Oh, don't get me started! Cities should be made more bike-friendly. By that I mean parking facilities and the use of bus lanes to encourage people to use bikes in congested areas instead of cars. Bikes are more environmentally friendly, more efficient on time and fuel, and easier to park.
Any tips for safe riding? Wrap yourself in bubble wrap - or wear the right gear and get good tyres.
What's your dream bike? My problem is that I couldn't settle for one. I'd have to get a Harley Fat Boy, a Ducati, a Blackbird, a Buell Lightning or a Benelli TNT and a large secure garage to put them all in.