Career Summary

For many people, riding a motorcycle is not just a way of getting around, it's a way of life. It's about hearing the engine roar and having a machine that is truly unique to their own tastes. Because the love for motorcycles is so intense, mechanics must not only be experienced in performance motorcycle repair and service, but should also be truly passionate about motorcycles. Some shops may require mechanics to know how to work on both American and foreign motorcycles.

Motorcycle mechanics are trained to keep motorcycle engines in top condition, as well as to make upgrades and repairs. A good mechanic can do everything from changing the oil to overhauling the engine. A great mechanic can hear or feel when something isn’t right with the machine. Many work for motorcycle dealers that specialize in sales, parts and importing new and secondhand bikes.

A mechanic might start out on the job with simple tasks, like picking up and delivering or cleaning bikes. After earning their certification and/or degree, many mechanics will go through a period as an informal apprentice. Mechanics then start to move up to doing routine repairs, testing, fixing headlights or handlebars or hammering out dents or tuning an engine, until eventually the mechanic is good enough to build a motorcycle from a frame.