20 per cent of cyclists say they never wear a helmet, while 1 in 10 never wear protective gear.

It just one of the findings of new research from the Road Safety Authority which shows a catalogue of self admitted safety infringements on our roads.

They include admissions of breaking the 100 kilometre speed limit - drink driving - and talking on a hand held mobile phone, texting and using apps while behind the wheel.

For just over 1 in 5 men - cycling is their main form of transport - this drops to 9 per cent for women.

And when it comes to not wearing a helmet inconvenience is a key factor but 13 per cent say it ruins their hair.

Colm Ryder is secretary of Dublin Cycling Campaign: