Job Description of a Motorcycle Mechanic
- Motorcycle mechanics take apart engines; replace defective magnetos, generators and carburetors; and remove carbon. Using hand and power devices, they install instruments, such as pistons, valves, rings and cylinders. Other duties include changing gasoline and oil tanks; adjusting forks, brakes and transmissions; and examining vehicle frames to assess the motorcycle's condition or vehicle damage.
- Candidates should have a high school education or equivalent education in reading comprehension, writing and math. Aspiring motorcycle mechanics can take high school classes in small-engine repair, science, business math and automobile mechanics. A common way for students to gain on-the-job experience and learn how to perform basic repairs is to work as a mechanic assistant during the summer. However, most job training is acquired as a full-time employee, where trainees learn skills such as replacing ignition points, spark plugs and valves. The BLS also states that mechanics can enroll in courses offered by motorcycle manufacturers and distributors (see Resources).
- Motorcycle mechanics must have excellent troubleshooting and problem-solving skills to identify the causes of technical malfunctions and operating errors. Good manual dexterity and eye-hand coordination is helpful when using hand and power tools. Other qualifications that employers look for are knowledge of testing and inspection procedures for performance, and wiring systems for small engines.
- The median salary for motorcycle mechanics in the United States was $33,870, according to a May 2009 BLS report. PayScale also reported in November 2010 that the average total pay, including bonuses, commission and profit sharing, for motorcycle mechanics fell between $25,241 and $40,820. Average hourly rates ranged from $11.70 to $17.74.
- According to BLS, employment growth for motorcycle mechanics is projected to be nine percent during the 2008 to 2018 decade. The BLS stated that due to an increase in motorcycle ownership, mechanics will be needed for their specialized expertise and repair services. Job opportunities should arise in motorcycle dealerships and independent repair shops that need to replace workers transferring to other jobs or exiting the industry. Professional mechanics with formal training and extensive knowledge of a wide range of engines should have the best job prospects.
