Richard Boyd, Development Manager, Tropical Medical Bureau
Your bike: Ducati 749
Why did you become a biker? I remember as a teenager being stuck in a car in heavy traffic in the city centre. This guy on the new Yamaha FZR 1000 with the new EXUP valve engine pulled up alongside. That's when I thought a bike would be a nice thing to have. Also, my first job was in Hatch Street and later Grafton Street and I used to cycle. The bus was only used when I was desperate and it was hard to park a car in the city so a bike was the only option - well, it was a good excuse.
Did you take any rider training course before you took to two wheels? No, I got a friend to show me. Since I passed my test and got into bigger bikes I've done some additional training.
What does your insurance cost? It's €1,400 per year fully comprehensive. I've booked to do my Aon Assessment to try and get some sort of additional discount.
What type of car do you drive? An Audi A4.
Was there any family resistance or objections to your riding a bike? Yes, a little. I bought my first bike when my parents were on holiday and when they came back it was in the driveway. My wife used to ride a scooter so she's aware of the advantages; ultimately she'd prefer I drove the car though.
Do you worry about your survival as a biker? Sure, particularly in Dublin which is so congested and people get frustrated and act without thinking. It's one of the reasons I did an advanced rider course because it really helped build my awareness and gave me better survival techniques
Do you follow motor sports? Yes, I was up at the Northwest 200 road racing a couple of weekends ago.
Have you taken any trips abroad on two wheels? No, but I certainly would love to.
What you do think is the bond that links bikers closer than motorists? I guess we all know the risks and rewards that come from riding a bike. We're slightly frowned upon, which I like. Basically bikers are making a specific choice, despite the frowns and risks, which goes beyond just economics and convenience.
Have you had any strange experiences with motorists? No, nothing in particular, although I'm always wary of BMW drivers; they never like to see anyone get in front of them and have a tendency to take you on. The golf clubs in the boot must weigh them down too much. I think HGV drivers are great and tend to be very switched on.
Any suggestions for improving conditions for bikers in this country? Let us officially use the bus lanes because it's far safer.
What are your safety tips? Get more training, keep learning and watch the beemers.
If you won the lottery what would be your dream bike? It would have to be a garage full of them: Ducati Desmosedici RR, MV Agusta F4, An original Ducati 916 and a BMW GS 1200
(Yes a BMW - don't ask).
- PATRICIA WESTON