Glin Donnelly, Citroën manager, Dún Laoghaire.
Your current machine? 2003 Harley Davidson Fatboy 100th Anniversary
Why this particular bike? I always had a soft spot for the American legend and the Fatboy is one of the most enjoyable cruising motorbikes. The combination of power (1450cc) and torque, the thump from the pipes, classic styling and great handling bring a smile to my face every time I power it up. The great thing about Harleys is that nearly every bike is different; with an accessory brochure of over 100 pages it's not difficult to customize your bike. There isn't a typical Harley rider and there isn't a typical Harley motorcycle.
Why two rather than four wheels? I have always loved anything with an engine. There isn't a better feeling than a couple of friends cruising along on motorbikes burning up the road and enjoying the roar of the engines. You forget about everything.
Did you take a rider training course before you took to two wheels? I took a couple of lessons and some sound advice from a few friends, I don't think you ever stop learning.
Do you hold a full or provisional license? I have a provisional driving license, but I have applied for my test.
Was there any family resistance or objections to your riding a bike? No. I am very lucky, my wife Elaine has been very supportive and although I know she worries, she doesn't show it; she even enjoys riding pillion, provided it's not raining.
Motorcycle fatalities are on the increase; do you worry about your survival as a biker? I think all motorcyclists do; you can't think too hard about it though or you would lose your nerve and never ride your bike again. It can be a dangerous pastime but my love for it far exceeds my fear.
What do you use your bike for? I mainly ride my bike for enjoyment, for time out alone or with a couple of friends. During the summer months I try to commute to work when the opportunity arises.
Have you ever had an accident on the bike? No, thank God, but I have had a few near misses. I dread the day I might have an accident and would settle for a few bruises.
Have you taken any trips abroad on two wheels? Not yet. I am planning a trip to Sturgis USA (Route 66) next year for a Harley Davidson rally. I recently took part in the bubblegum run.
What you do think is the bond that links bikers closer than motorists? It's hard to describe to people who don't ride or own motorcycles. I think because we are the minority road users we feel we have an obligation to look out for each other. We all share a passion, which isn't driven solely by necessity. If you break down on the side of the road, a fellow biker will always stop to help, and that is comforting. The truth is that we all share the same love for motorbikes and have a secret respect for each others machines.
Are there any issues you think the Minister for Transport should address for bikers? All motorcyclists should have the use of the bus corridors, I feel this would also help to reduce motorcycling accidents. Lower insurance premiums and abolished VRT rates would be nice.
Any tips for survival on two wheels? Never stop concentrating and never become too confident, no matter how experienced you are; every now and again a bike will give you a little reminder of its power and vulnerability.
If you won the lottery what would be your dream bike? I am already riding it, however I would probably spend a few more thousand on accessories. The great thing about motorbikes is that owning your dream bike can be possible.