The responsibilities of a motorcycle repair technician include diagnosing, maintaining, and repairing motorcycles, mopeds, scooters, ATVs, and other small engine vehicles. These individuals also typically have motorized vehicles of their own, and are passionate about these types of vehicles. In today’s modern world, motorcycle service/repair technicians use computer diagnostic equipment to find operating malfunctions on small engine vehicles. They then use their understanding of these machines to repair items such as transmissions, engines, and brakes.
Those who wish to pursue this career should participate in a motorcycle repair technician course to learn more about the tasks they will be expected to complete in this work place. These individuals must be experienced in working with small engine vehicles, and understand topics such as clutches, tires, inspections, ignitions, brakes, and electrical fundamentals, among other subjects. While in these courses, students may also learn about engine configuration, ignition and compression, steering systems, warning gauges, and wheel assemblies.
Another important skill in this job includes understanding how to troubleshoot this type of machine. While computer diagnostics have made this procedure less arduous, repair technicians must still be able to actually work on small engine vehicles and fix a problem. This may necessitate trial and error stages, which require a large amount of know-how from the technician. The more these technicians understand the vehicle, the better they will be at their job. Troubleshooting may also be beneficial to individuals who own their own motorcycle or similar vehicles.
Motorcycle repair technician courses should also teach students about fuel systems, cooling systems, lubrication systems, clutch systems, electrical measurement, and AC and DC currents. By understanding how these systems work, students may grasp why a certain system isn’t maintaining optimal operational procedures, and how to fix the problem. Students should also learn how to completely dismantle an engine and put the parts back together, as well as be able to recognize defective parts.
Finally, while not necessary, a love of small engine vehicles may be extremely beneficial in this job. As mentioned in the introductory paragraph, motorcycle repair technicians usually have motorcycles of their own, and hold a passion for these types of vehicles. An individual who brings their own vehicle to a repair shop is expecting the best care possible for their ride, and is more liable to feel at ease handing their vehicle to the shop if they feel the technician holds the same enthusiasm for the machine.