BikeSafe Dublin Castle – 21st September 2025
Riders Share Their Experience on Two Wheels and Why BikeSafe Matters
The latest BikeSafe workshop day, held in Dublin Castle on 21st September 2025, brought together riders of all experience levels to refresh their skills, learn new techniques, and reflect on the importance of safety on Irish roads.
Two participants, Brendan and Denver, took part in the event and shared their experiences on camera. Their insights highlight not only the value of BikeSafe but also the daily challenges faced by motorcyclists on our roads.
Why Riders Signed Up for BikeSafe
For Brendan, who has been riding since 2007, BikeSafe was a chance to re-learn important techniques and refresh his awareness:
“I did BikeSafe before, back in about 2010, and it was a tremendous experience. Today, I really wanted to re-learn things I might be taking for granted – skills that keep me safe on the road.”
Denver, who has completed advanced training in the past, saw the session as a chance to test himself and brush up on old skills:
“I signed up because I wanted to see what I’m still doing okay and what I need to work on. For me it’s about safety – am I really as safe as I can be on the roads?”
The Biggest Risks for Motorcyclists
Both riders agreed that the biggest threat to motorcyclists is visibility – or the lack of it.
Brendan explained:
“People get into cars and think that’s the only space that exists. Drivers don’t look beyond their own windscreen. For bikers, observation is everything.”
Denver added that since COVID, road user behaviour has worsened:
“Other road users just don’t pay attention anymore. Visibility is our biggest vulnerability.”
Lessons from the Day
The observed rides and mentoring sessions gave both participants practical takeaways they’ll carry forward.
For Brendan, the focus was on using the road space more effectively:
“I need to look further ahead, understand where the road is going, and position myself properly with that information.”
Denver’s big takeaway was about prioritising safety over perfect road position:
“Sacrifice position for safety. If you’re on a left-hander in position three but an oncoming car is close, move into position two or even one. Safety first, always.”
Why Every Rider Should Do BikeSafe
Both riders were clear – BikeSafe isn’t just useful, it’s essential.
Brendan:
“It’s not about finding your faults. It’s about focusing on your safety. The ride-out under mentorship was brilliant – I can’t praise it enough.”
Denver:
“I honestly think it should be mandatory. It supports the bigger goal of the Gardaí and RSA – zero road deaths by 2030. New riders and experienced bikers alike will benefit.”
Advice to Younger or Newer Riders
Denver’s message was heartfelt:
“You don’t want your family getting that phone call. Roads are full of new hazards – e-scooters, e-bikes, electric cars. Safety has to be everyone’s business.”
Brendan added:
“Younger riders really need to do this course. They’ll get more enjoyment and more confidence out of motorcycling if they do.”
Final Word – A Safety Message
BikeSafe is not about passing or failing. It’s about learning, improving, and staying alive on the roads. Whether you’re new to motorcycling or have decades of experience, there’s always something to refresh, re-learn, or improve.
Look further ahead. Use your road space wisely. Check your mirrors every 3–5 seconds. And remember – safety is not a choice, it’s a habit.
Stay safe, ride smart, and see you at the next BikeSafe session.
