We may receive compensation when you click on product links from our partners. For more information, please see our disclosure policy.
Do you possess a passion for motorcycles that extends beyond their aesthetic allure? Do you relish the experience of tinkering with your own bikes? If so, a career as a motorcycle mechanic or technician could be an excellent fit for you. This role offers the chance to work with a range of motorcycle parts and systems, connect with individuals who share your interests, and earn a good income while doing something you love.
Becoming a Motorcycle Mechanic
Generally, a high school diploma or its equivalent is sufficient for entry-level positions as a motorcycle mechanic. However, if you aim to earn a higher salary and advance in the industry, gaining specialized experience is advisable. Such experience can be acquired either through prior work in a shop or by attending a certified motorcycle technician training school.
Finding Motorcycle Mechanic Jobs
Once you’ve acquired the necessary education and experience, the next step is to secure a fulfilling job. Numerous opportunities exist in the motorcycle mechanic field, but the key question remains: Will you opt for employment with a dealership or an independent motorcycle shop?
Considering a career as a motorcycle mechanic? Explore the benefits and drawbacks of working in dealerships versus independent shops to find your perfect fit. Turn your love for bikes into a rewarding job today! #MotorcycleMechanic #CareerPathClick To TweetDealership or Indy Shop?
A motorcycle dealership is an authorized facility for specific original equipment (OE) brands, selling both new and occasionally used bikes. It also provides certified, warrantied maintenance services and parts. In contrast, an independent motorcycle shop operates independently of OE brands and offers mechanic services accordingly. Regardless of your choice, it’s crucial to have a strong understanding of motorcycle mechanics and safety. For more information, visit Vehiclefreak.com.
There are advantages and disadvantages to both options, so let’s explore some key distinctions between these two types of motorcycle mechanic roles to help you make a well-informed decision.
General or Specialized Experience:
A fundamental distinction between independent and dealership-based motorcycle mechanic roles lies in the scope of experience. As mentioned earlier, dealerships specialize in servicing bikes from their authorized brands, while independent shops handle a wider variety of bikes and brands. For instance, a technician at a Honda dealership would gain extensive expertise in Honda motorcycles. However, due to a lack of exposure to other brands, their knowledge and experience would be more limited when dealing with motorcycles from different manufacturers.
Conversely, a mechanic employed at an independent shop gains experience with a variety of motorcycles, equipping them with a broader understanding of how to perform diverse maintenance tasks and repairs across different brands and models.
Therefore, when searching for motorcycle mechanic roles, you must decide whether you aim to specialize in a particular brand or would rather acquire a more comprehensive skill set, working on multiple brands’ components and systems.
Hiring Requirements
Another consideration when weighing dealerships against independent shop roles for motorcycle mechanics is the hiring criteria. Dealerships typically insist that new mechanics have top-tier credentials, often requiring the completion of a specialized training program to ensure they meet stringent quality standards.
On the other hand, independent shop owners may be more flexible in their hiring requirements. They may consider candidates who have a passion for motorcycles and some hands-on experience, especially if paired with relevant education. Independent shops offer the chance to refine existing skills and develop new ones without the stringent demands or pressures commonly associated with original equipment brand dealerships.
Salary
Lastly, consider the difference in compensation. Dealerships generally offer higher salaries and more comprehensive benefits for their motorcycle technician roles. However, these perks come with strings attached. You’ll need to have the specialized experience and educational qualifications they demand and be prepared to navigate a fair amount of corporate bureaucracy.
On the flip side, working for an independent motorcycle shop may offer a lower initial salary and fewer flashy benefits, but many professionals find it ultimately rewarding. Technicians at independent shops have the opportunity to serve a wider customer base and can offer personalized, quality service. This not only fosters customer loyalty but also attracts new business. Over time, this can translate into significant salary increases and additional perks.
“Vocational training focuses on imparting specialized skills, unlike many four-year
college programs that offer a broader range of general knowledge without necessarily providing skills that are directly applicable in the workforce. Taught by experts in the field, vocational programs often include hands-on experience and frequently lead to apprenticeships or internships, providing a more direct path to employment.” – Kick-Start Your Career with Vocational Training
If you’re really interested in pursuing any motorcycle mechanic jobs, there are a ton of opportunities out there. Essentially all you have to do is decide whether you think working at a dealership or indy shop will provide you the best opportunities to shine for your level, and then start searching for a job to get your foot in the door of the motorcycle industry.
