Sean O'Callaghan, electronic engineer
Rides: Suzuki GS500K2, Honda VFR400NC24
Why were you attracted to these particular machines? The Suzuki was the biggest bike I could get insured on at the time, which was four years ago. The VFR I've always had a thing for, because I think it's just stunning in every way!
What do you use your bikes for? Commuting, touring, track days and fun.
Why did you become a biker? I grew up around bikes so it just came naturally. These days I do have a car, but I only use it if I have to, because I really hate sitting in traffic and I work in the city centre so it makes sense to have a bike.
Did you take any rider training course before you took to two wheels? Shamefully no! I'm a big advocate of both rider and driver training, and believe it should be at least encouraged for both. I have participated in track days at Mondello though, and have every intention of doing advanced training in the future.
Do you hold a full or provisional licence for your bikes? I have full A1 and A licences.
What does your insurance cost? With Carole Nash my latest premium was approximately €800 third-party only.
What car do you drive? 1998 Honda Civic 1.5 LSI
Does your family mind you biking? Fortunately not too much, they worried about me for a while but would never stop me from doing anything.
Do you worry about your survival as a biker? Constantly, I think only a fool wouldn't. This country is not particularly rider-friendly. Driver standards are entirely inadequate, road surfaces are incredibly inconsistent, and these supposed cable 'safety barriers' being installed on our motorways couldn't be better designed to kill any motorcyclist unlucky enough to meet one. I'd sooner take my chances with oncoming traffic!
Have you ever had any accidents? I had one minor spill three years ago due to a slippery hard shoulder, no other vehicles were involved and neither the bike nor myself suffered any real damage. For my part, my armour saved me from injury and I came away with only a small cut on my knee from the lining on the inside of the slacks.
Are you a motor sports junkie? Absolutely, I follow Moto GP, World Super Bikes (WSB), British Super Bikes (BSB) and Irish Road Racing.
What about trips abroad? No, I haven't taken any yet but I fully intend to.
Have you any suggestions on how to improve conditions for bikers in this country? I have hundreds, but primarily here's my list: Compulsory driver training; replacement of all cable-type safety barriers with biker friendly equivalents; removal of VAT on motorcycle helmets and armour; removal of tolls on bikes, and permitted use of bus lanes.
What are your tips for survival on two wheels? Always watch what's happening at least 100 metres ahead. Try to anticipate what others are about to do. Don't expect drivers to see you, and always assume that they don't. Always wear full protective armour, and fit your bike with a really loud aftermarket horn.
What's your dream machine? Honda VFR750R RC30.