Philip Cawley, Today FM presenter
What is your current machine? A Honda Shadow 1,100 cc 1996. I bought it from JP motorcycles in Dublin. He imports a lot of these kinds of bikes. I got my last one there as well, a Honda Magna 750. My first bike prior to being tested was a Magna 250.
What attracted you to this particular bike? I think it is a bit of a looker. It has a nice bit of torque and, lets face it, it's like a leather sofa with an engine. It comes up really well after cleaning. The tyres are a bit pricey though, at 170 for the back tyre.
What attracted you to two rather than four wheels? Practicality and the traffic is crazy going in and out of Dublin. It gives the rider their independence back.
Do you drive a car? Yes I drive a Nissan, but only when I have to. I am a believer in public transport; depending on the time of year, I use the train to and from work.
Are you likely to change your bike in the future or are you happy with what you've got? I am very happy with my bike but wouldn't mind a Pan European as well! They're a great bike and I have ridden them many times. It is a completely different bike, so I would definitely consider a training course prior to purchasing one.
What do you use your bike for? Pleasure and commuting in good weather. I love a Sunday spin around the Wicklow mountains or even a quick spin to Wexford. My mate, John, has a Goldwing and we usually team up for a spin, although I must admit my bike is a bit dwarfed by his.
How much do you spend on bike gear? Safety is foremost and I have an all-weather suit with armour I got at Meskells in Limerick, plus leathers, depending on conditions. Thanks to friends I have about nine helmets to choose from. I like to wear a full-face helmet because it gives more all-round vision. My suit cost €300 and the leathers the same.
Ever had an accident on the bike? No, the only near miss was on a roundabout. A motorist in the left lane deciding to turn right . . . my mother was praying for me that day.
Have you taken any trips abroad on two wheels? A short one to Britain, and maybe France when I get the Pan. I went across the Irish Sea for fun and also to see how English motorists treat bikers. They actually look in their mirrors and move in to let you pass. Wow, was I surprised!
More people than ever are now taking to the road on two wheels, why do you think this is? You can predict with accuracy your ETA.
What do you think is the bond that links bikers closer than motorists? Actually I was amazed at the friendliness shown to me when I started biking a few years back. The bikers wave etc, and I think it's a united struggle against motorists who have no tolerance for bikers.
If you were Minister for Transport would you make any changes for bikers? No Road Tax, free tolls, proper training for riders starting out, and realistic insurance quotes.
If you won the lottery what would be your dream bike? A BMW 1,200 cruiser.
- Patricia Weston