Wednesday, October 1, 2008

Key Considerations in Motorcycle Repair Training

Career Center - by Carie Bishop

You probably enjoy working on bikes or you wouldn’t have enrolled in a motorcycle technician training course. Chances are also good that you have your own machine and have tinkered on it for years, either repairing the engine and other parts or tweaking settings so it runs like a champ. But there’s a huge difference between working on your own bike and working for a repair shop. For one thing, you’ll have to fix things quickly and on deadline. And bikes have become more complicated, with computerized fuel and electrical systems.

Your depth and breadth of training depends on the program where you’ve enrolled. Some offer generalized instruction in two and four-stoke engines, suspension systems, brakes and electrical, chassis, exhaust, and lubrication. Other programs also include studies on repair and maintenance of ATVs, mopeds, scooters, dirt bikes, and other vehicles.

Perhaps you just want to learn how to better service and repair your own bike. Or, you may be starting a career or taking advanced training to bolster your skills. Here are some key things to consider in motorcycle training:

Certifications. Are you planning on working on a range of makes and models or a single manufacturer? For example, you may want to concentrate on Harley-Davidson bikes. Or should you consider detailed, specific training and certification to work on BMW, Honda, Ducati, Yamaha, Triumph, Kawasaki, or Suzuki machines?

Specializations. Are you planning on joining an existing company as a specialist? Should you consider training in paint and detailing? Have you considered focusing on marine as well as motorcycle systems? Perhaps you want to work for a manufacturer or parts supplier (making it essential to study detailed specs for forks, control cables, bearings, valves, or gear shifters).

Fundamental Shop Studies. Does your training program include basic, but fundamental, studies in shop procedures, major tools, troubleshooting techniques, understanding shop manuals, diagnostic equipment, job costing, routine scheduled maintenance, tires, power train, and hydraulics? You’ll need these to succeed!