Motorcycle Mechanic Video: Career Options and Training Requirements

Introduction

Motorcycle mechanics repair and maintain the small engines that power motorcycles and other types of motorbikes. They also work on brake, suspension, transmission and ignition systems.

Job Skills and Duties

Motorcycle mechanics spend most of their time diagnosing, maintaining and repairing motorcycle engines and systems. These professionals need to be intimately familiar with the various parts that make a motorcycle run so that they can perform routine maintenance and diagnose problems that may come up. When equipment breakdowns occur, it is a mechanic's responsibility to figure out what went wrong and to determine what needs to be done to fix the issue. Knowledge of specialized diagnostic equipment is a must, particularly in large repair shops. Motorcycle mechanics must also know how to work with tools like wrenches, screwdrivers, gauges, drills and grinders.

Training Required

It is not unusual for a mechanic to spend three to five years learning the trade under the tutelage of an experienced motorcycle mechanic. For those who are looking to enter the field fully trained, there are applicable programs available at community colleges and technical institutes. Most of the programs last between one and two years and result in a degree, diploma or certificate. Trained motorcycle mechanics are not required to obtain licensure, though some states offer voluntary certifications in small engine repair.

Work Environment

Motorcycle mechanics usually work forty hours or more every week. Many mechanics specialize in a certain type or brand of motorcycle, such as Harley Davidson or Honda. Specialization can help a mechanic secure a position in the field since many available jobs are at dealerships who only service what they sell. Most motorcycle mechanics begin their career with simple maintenance tasks, such as oil changes and brake work. Experienced mechanics typically work in diagnosis and repair. Regardless of the job, the work that a motorcycle mechanic does is labor-intensive and required standing and bending for hours on end.

Conclusion

A love for motorcycles is what prompts many people to enter this field. Motorcycle mechanics get to work on the machines that they love every single day. If you are a problem solver who has a passion for bikes, a career as a motorcycle mechanic might be right for you.

Sources

Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook - Small Engine Mechanics

http://stats.bls.gov/oco/ocos198.htm

Wyoming Technical College - Motorcycle Technology Program

http://www.wyotech.edu/program/motorcycle-technology

State of Michigan Motorcycle Repair Study Guide

http://www.michigan.gov/documents/mtcyclestudy_20309_7.pdf