Musician Graham Bolger talks to Motoring Times about hsi bike.
What's your current bike?
A BMW F650 GS.
Why this particular bike?
I've always liked off-road bikes - this one feels like an off-road bike but is amazing for city driving.
Why two rather than four wheels?
I never drive a car. I find them very boring. I'd go mad sitting about in traffic listening to Pat Kenny - no offence!
Did you take any training course before you took to two wheels?
No, but I got my first bike when I was about six-years-old. It was a 50 cc Italjet dirt bike. My father, brother and I all had bikes when I was a kid which we rode through quarries and mountains.
Do you hold a full or provisional licence for your bike?
Full.
Any family objections to your riding a bike?
I get comments every single day! I'm constantly being reminded about the dangers of motorcycling by family and friends.
With motorcycle fatalities on the increase, do you worry about your survival as a biker?
Absolutely! The loonies that drive about in this town are bound to get you sooner or later - or there's always the chance that you might fall into a pothole and never be seen again.
What do you use your bike for?
I use it every day, mostly to get me in and out of work, but I'd still say I use it for recreational use because it's always fun.
Ever had an accident on the bike?
Yes. One serious one, and a few little hiccups. The serious one involved a Hiace that had no lights or mirrors, and seemed to have the ability to materialise in the middle of the road where once there was no Hiace! I was blessed though - I should've been killed, but I didn't break any bones although I wasn't able to walk for eight weeks. I was wearing the right gear, which protected me. Some other unknown force must have been protecting me too. Anyway, it didn't deter me - I was throwing my leg over new bikes while still on crutches.
Have you taken any trips abroad on two wheels? No, but it's on the cards.
What's the bond that links bikers closer than motorists?
It's all about the leathers! Just Kidding. People tend to view their cars as little personal bubbles - what's outside of it is nothing to do with them. It's the opposite with bikes.
What's been your worst experience with motorists?
In general the only problem that I have is that a lot of people don't pay enough attention while driving. Mirrors and indicators should be used more often.
Any issues the Minister for Transport should address for bikers? Insurance terrorism . . . I swear that letter bombs would do less damage than the renewal that came through my door recently.
Any two-wheel survival tips?
You will probably come off some day, so for God's sake wear the right gear.
If you won the lottery what would be your dream bike?
One with stealth capabilities - undetectable by radar!
- Patricia Weston