My Bike and I: Rob Grundy

Your bike? A Suzuki Bandit 600

Your bike? A Suzuki Bandit 600.Why did you go for this bike? Because of its style, reliability, power and comfort - it's a great all-rounder.

When did you become a biker? I've been riding bikes since I was 17 - I'm 25 now. I first became hooked when I saw my brother's friend's Suzuki RG 125. I thought it looked huge and wanted one of my own. My first bike was an Aprilia RS 50 and since then I've had two Honda CBRs, a Honda Hornet 250 and a Honda RVF 400 that unfortunately was assassinated by a Fiat Punto in a crash.

What do you use your bike for? Everything - riding around, touring, going to work. It's my sole means of transport.

Have you added any accessories to your Bandit? I had a new exhaust fitted for extra bhp and a great sound - you can definitely hear me coming. I think I drive the neighbours mad every morning when I start up my bike. I also had Hagan rear shocks fitted to improve the bike's handling.

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Taken any biking trips abroad? I took the bike on the ferry to France last year and toured Normandy. It was a great trip just cruising and camping. I want to tour Germany next.

What does your insurance cost? €850 for third party and I have a full licence. My insurance was £2,000 on my first bike.

Are you a fan of motor racing? I tried motocross but I didn't like it, it's just too mucky. I like to watch the Moto GP and I'm a big fan of Valentino Rossi - he's great, he can make a motorbike stand up and talk. I also love real road racing - the riders are very skillful.

Ever taken any rider training? No, but I'm always meaning to but I haven't got around to it yet. I've done a few track days which were great. It's very different to riding on the road because the corners just seem to sneak up on you and you have to be able to turn into them like a racer.

Had any biking accidents? Yes, two in one year. I was sitting in traffic when a guy just drove into the back of me. I just bounced off the bike but didn't sustain any injuries. The worst accident I had was when I was hit head on by a Fiat Punto. The driver was talking on her mobile and driving on the wrong side of the road. I was thrown from the bike and skidded along the road. I broke my foot and ruptured a bicep muscle - still I was lucky because my leather gear protected me.

Any tips for survival on two wheels? Always wear the correct biker gear - it will save your life if you have an accident. Wear a fluorescent jacket as well, so you can be seen because motorists just don't seem to see bikers.

What would be your dream bike? My dream machine would be a Honda Fireblade because it does everything I want, it just seems like the perfect bike. I'd also love a Ducati 996.

In an interview with Patricia Weston