Niamh O'Connor
Cycling Instructor & E-Bike Specialist
14 years helping Irish seniors discover the joy of riding on flat greenway routes, with real expertise in e-bikes and accessible cycling instruction across Ireland's best trails.
Who Niamh Is
Niamh started working with older adults in 2010 at a Cork leisure centre, where she noticed something that frustrated her — mobility challenges were keeping retirees away from cycling, even though they wanted to ride. She pursued formal certifications in adaptive sports and e-bike mechanics, and by 2013 had the qualifications to actually help. That same year, she organized Ireland's first guided e-bike group ride on the Great Western Greenway. What started with 12 participants grew to over 300 annually within three years.
Now at sippingbeauty Ltd since 2019, Niamh has guided more than 2,000 retirees through Ireland's greenway networks. She's authored comprehensive guides on e-bike selection for older riders, flat-route cycling strategy, and how to build confidence on group rides. Her background in Sports Science from University College Cork, combined with Irish Cycling Federation certifications, means she understands both the science of adaptive cycling and the real experience of coaching people who've been inactive for years.
She believes age isn't a barrier to outdoor adventure — it's just a different starting point. Her coaching style combines evidence-based instruction with genuine empathy for the physical and confidence challenges her audience faces. That's why her groups feel welcoming instead of intimidating, and why so many of her participants actually keep riding after their first season.
Real Experience
14 years building accessible cycling pathways across Ireland
Rehabilitation Coordinator (2010–2013)
Started at a Cork leisure centre working directly with older adults on mobility and fitness. This is where the real insight came from — watching people want to ride but not knowing where to start or how their bodies would respond. Completed Sports Science degree at UCC and earned adaptive cycling certifications from the Irish Cycling Federation.
Great Western Greenway Pioneer (2015–2019)
Launched the first dedicated e-bike programme for retirees on the Great Western Greenway, starting with just 12 people. Built it to over 300 participants annually. Developed coaching protocols specifically for older riders, focusing on confidence-building, safety, and genuine enjoyment. Created the framework that's now used by cycling groups across Ireland.
Senior Cycling Expert at sippingbeauty Ltd (2019–Present)
Currently leads all senior cycling and accessibility initiatives. Has guided over 2,000 retirees on the Great Western Greenway and Waterford Greenway. Authored detailed guides on e-bike selection, flat-route strategy, and group ride protocols. Designs accessible cycling programmes for community groups in Galway, Cork, and Waterford. Regularly consulted by local authorities on greenway accessibility improvements.
What Niamh Specializes In
Great Western Greenway Routes
Over 40km of flat, traffic-free riding between Westport and Newport. Niamh knows every section — where to rest, which parts suit e-bikes, how to build confidence from gentle rides to longer journeys. She's guided hundreds of first-time riders through this route safely.
Waterford Greenway Flat Routes
46km of completely flat riding from Waterford city to Dungarvan. Perfect for riders concerned about hills or stamina. Niamh's guides break this into manageable sections and explain exactly what to expect, making it accessible for retirees returning to cycling after years away.
E-Bike Selection for Retirees
Understands exactly what older riders actually need in an e-bike — not marketing specs, but real-world comfort, reliability, and ease of use. Covers motor types, battery range, weight distribution, and how to test before buying. Her guidance cuts through the confusion and helps people choose the right bike.
Guided Group Rides Near Galway
Runs accessible group rides for seniors in the Galway region, including the Galway Bay Greenway and local flat routes. Her groups are welcoming to beginners, structured for safety, and genuinely fun. She coaches riders on pacing, group etiquette, and building confidence alongside others.
Adaptive Cycling Instruction
Holds Irish Cycling Federation certifications in adaptive sports and has worked with riders across the mobility spectrum. Understands how age, injury, or chronic conditions affect riding, and designs instruction that meets people where they actually are instead of where they think they should be.
E-Bike Mechanics & Maintenance
Formally trained in e-bike systems, not just general bike repair. Understands motor types, battery management, sensor calibration, and troubleshooting. This means she can explain what's actually happening with a rider's bike and help them maintain it properly for years of reliable riding.
Credentials & Training
BSc Sports Science
University College Cork
2013
Adaptive Cycling Instruction
Irish Cycling Federation
2013
E-Bike Mechanics Certification
Irish Cycling Federation
2013
Featured Guides & Resources
Written by Niamh for riders at every stage
Great Western Greenway: Your Complete Guide
Everything you need to know about riding Ireland's 40km traffic-free route. Includes route breakdown, best starting points, what to expect, and how to build your confidence from short rides to the full distance.
E-Bikes for Retirees: What Actually Matters
Cut through the marketing jargon and understand what actually matters in an e-bike for older riders. Motor types, battery range, weight, comfort features, and how to test before you buy. Plus real recommendations for different budgets.
Guided Group Rides Near Galway
Explore the group rides Niamh runs in the Galway area, what to expect on your first ride, how to prepare, and why riding with others makes such a difference to confidence and enjoyment. Routes for all abilities included.
Waterford Greenway: Flat Routes for Comfortable Riding
The complete Waterford Greenway is 46km of completely flat riding — perfect if you're concerned about hills. Niamh breaks down the route into manageable sections, explains what to expect, and shares tips for making it enjoyable at any fitness level.
Ready to Get Started?
Whether you're thinking about your first ride, considering an e-bike, or looking to join a group, Niamh's guides and resources are here to help you feel confident and supported every step of the way.