A car just isn't right for everyone.  Many people choose to own motorcycles, and motorcycles, just like cars, need quite a bit of care.  That's where a motorcycle mechanic comes in.  If you can't get enough of motorcycles and want to spend your day using your muscles and your mind to work on these beautiful pieces of machinery, this is definitely the career for you!

Motorcycle mechanics never get bored with their work.  There's always something to do.  Motorcycle mechanics diagnose, repair, and service the mechanical, electrical and electronic systems and apparatus of motorcycles. They also work with other vehicles that weigh less than a thousand pounds.  When a vehicle's owner brings in their motorcycle, the mechanic asks questions and physically inspects the motorcycle to figure out the nature and extent of the problem.  Skilled mechanics will be able to quickly diagnose mechanical, fuel, and electrical malfunctions and make repairs.

Possibly the most important possessions of a mechanic are hand tools.  They use wrenches, pliers, and screwdrivers daily.  Motorcycle mechanics also use computerized engine analyzers, compression gauges, ammeters, voltmeters, and other testing devices to locate faulty parts and tune engines.  They repair as much as possible, put in new parts, realign brakes, replace shock absorbers, and rewire ignition systems, lights, and instrument panels. Some motorcycle mechanics also fix damaged body and fenders by hammering out or filling in dents, and welding broken parts.

Motorcycle mechanics also spend quite a bit of their time maintaining vehicles with preventative and restorative treatments.  Routine maintenance typically involves the inspection and cleaning of brakes, electrical systems, plugs, carburetors, and other parts.  After their inspection, mechanics will repair, adjust, or replace parts that aren't working properly.

On the Road to Becoming a Motorcycle Mechanic
Since motorcycles are becoming increasingly complex, most employers prefer to hire mechanics who have graduated from training programs or a motorcycle mechanic school.  The number of these specialized postsecondary programs is a bit limited, so a lot of mechanics learn their skills on-the-job.  People with mechanical skills who have some knowledge about the basics of small two and four stroke engines are most likely to be hired for trainee positions. 

In both motorcycle mechanic schools and on-the-job training, aspiring mechanics start with the basics.  They first learn how to replace ignition points and spark plugs and how to take apart, assemble, and test new equipment.  Once they are proficient in these areas, novices will progress to more intricate aspects of the job, such as advanced computerized diagnosis and engine overhauls.  On-the-job trainees can spend as much as three years learning about the various duties of a motorcycle mechanic.  In this aspect, those who attend a motorcycle mechanic school have a bit of a jump-start on the trainees.  Most motorcycle mechanic schools have a one or two year accelerated program that helps students excel faster to a better paying job. 

Once a motorcycle mechanic obtains a job, they are always continuing their education.  Most employers will send mechanics to special training courses to upgrade their skills and learn how to repair newer models.  These courses can last up to two weeks.

The job outlook for motorcycle mechanics is excellent, especially for those with formal training in a motorcycle mechanic school.  Employment is expected to increase by eleven percent between 2006 and 2016.

If you're interested in becoming a motorcycle mechanic, check out some schools near you.  In no time you could be earning over $20.00 an hour!