How to become a motorcycle mechanic
Diagnose, adjust, repair, or overhaul motorcycles, scooters, mopeds, dirt bikes, or similar motorized vehicles.
Steps to get there
Most employers expect most occupations in this zone require training in vocational schools, related on-the-job experience, or an associate's degree..Previous work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is required for these occupations. For example, an electrician must have completed three or four years of apprenticeship or several years of vocational training, and often must have passed a licensing exam, in order to perform the job.
What motorcycle mechanics do
- Dismantle engines and repair or replace defective parts, such as magnetos, carburetors, or generators.
- Listen to engines, examine vehicle frames, or confer with customers to determine nature and extent of malfunction or damage.
- Repair or adjust motorcycle subassemblies, such as forks, transmissions, brakes, or drive chains, according to specifications.
- Remove cylinder heads and grind valves to scrape off carbon and replace defective valves, pistons, cylinders, or rings, using hand and power tools.
- Install motorcycle accessories.
- Mount, balance, change, or check condition or pressure of tires.
Skills that matter most
- Active Listening
- Speaking
- Critical Thinking
- Active Learning
- Monitoring
- Reading Comprehension
- Writing
- Learning Strategies
Is motorcycle mechanic a good career?
On the numbers, this job is close to the average across occupations. Median pay is 5% below the all-occupation median. Whether it fits you depends on the work itself, the schooling you are willing to do and where you want to live.
Where it pays most
- New Hampshire $62,890
- Nevada $60,450
- New Jersey $59,430
- Minnesota $58,280
- Oregon $58,040
Motorcycle Mechanics salary by state and city
Sources: O*NET® 31.0 (CC BY 4.0, USDOL/ETA) and BLS Employment Projections 2025–35. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025.