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Powersports service
Motorcycle Mechanic
Passion work, seasonal income, and you buy your own tools.
Typical pay
$34k-$70k
How you get in
Motorcycle technology program or dealer training
Outlook
Steady; combining powersports and marine smooths the season
Motorcycle technicians service bikes, ATVs and powersports vehicles. Many enter because they love riding; the seasonal income and flat-rate pay structure are what they had not accounted for.
A day in the life
- 8:00aReview the service schedule and open work orders
- 8:30aTire mounting and balancing
- 10:30aValve adjustment and carburetor synchronization
- 12:30pLunch
- 1:00pElectrical diagnosis on a no-start
- 4:00pTest rides and closing out work orders
How to get in
Dealer apprentice
Duration
6-18 months
Cost
$0 — paid
Credential
Manufacturer certifications
- Get hired at a dealership doing setup, tires and basic service
- Learn engines, suspension and electrical systems
- Attend manufacturer training schools for the brands you carry
- Brand certification directly determines your flat-rate value
Motorcycle technology program
Duration
9-18 months
Cost
$10,000-$40,000
Credential
Certificate in motorcycle or powersports technology
- Complete a motorcycle technology program
- Be honest about program cost against the pay scale in this field
- Enter a dealership above entry level
- Consider adding marine or small engine skills for year-round work
Independent shop
Duration
3-6 years of experience
Cost
$20,000-$80,000
Credential
Business license and insurance
- Build brand knowledge and a customer following
- Specialize — vintage restoration, performance or a specific marque
- Open a shop with modest space and your own tools
- Specialty and vintage work carries far better margins than routine service
What people love
- · You work on machines you actually care about
- · Manufacturer certifications raise pay
- · Independent shops are very achievable
- · Powersports and marine expand the season
What wears people down
- · Strongly seasonal in cold climates
- · Flat rate means slow weeks pay poorly
- · Tool investment is substantial and personal
- · Pay lags automotive in many markets