Motorcycle Mechanic

    Mechanic & Engine Technician

    CIP Name: Motorcycle Mechanic|CIP Code: 47.0611
    SOC Code: 49-3052

    Apply technical knowledge and skills to repair, service, and maintain motorcycles and other similar powered vehicles.

    $47K
    Median Salary
    +5.3%
    Job Growth
    6mo-2yr
    Training
    1.5K
    Jobs/Year

    What Motorcycle Mechanics Do

    Apply technical knowledge and skills to repair, service, and maintain motorcycles and other similar powered vehicles.

    Common Tasks

    • 1Mount, balance, change, or check condition or pressure of tires.
    • 2Replace defective parts, using hand tools, arbor presses, flexible power presses, or power tools.
    • 3Dismantle engines and repair or replace defective parts, such as magnetos, carburetors, or generators.
    • 4Connect test panels to engines and measure generator output, ignition timing, or other engine performance indicators.
    • 5Listen to engines, examine vehicle frames, or confer with customers to determine nature and extent of malfunction or damage.

    What You'll Learn

    lubrication and cooling systemselectrical and ignition systemscarburetionfuel systems and adjustments of moving parts

    Types of Motorcycle Mechanics

    All Terrain Vehicle Technician (ATV Technician)Custom Bike BuilderMotorcycle MechanicMotorcycle Service TechnicianMotorcycle TechnicianMotorsports TechnicianScooter MechanicService Technician

    Work Environment

    Locations

    • • Motorcycle dealerships
    • • Independent repair shops
    • • Powersports service centers
    • • Custom motorcycle build shops
    • • Fleet or rental maintenance garages

    Schedule

    Most work a set shop schedule, but time pressure is common to meet customer deadlines and peak-season demand.

    Physical Demands

    The job is physically hands-on with lots of standing, bending, kneeling, and frequent handling of tools and parts. Repetitive motions and working in tight spaces around engines and frames are common.

    Salary & Job Outlook

    Median $47,200
    $31,761$70,220+
    Entry Level
    10th percentile
    $31,761
    Early Career
    25th percentile
    $38,272
    Median
    50th percentile
    $47,200
    Experienced
    75th percentile
    $58,884
    Top Earners
    90th percentile
    $70,220+

    National Employment: 14,900 jobs

    Top Paying States

    Why Demand May Grow

    Demand may rise as more people use motorcycles, scooters, and other powersports vehicles for commuting and recreation. An aging fleet and increasing vehicle complexity can also drive more repair and maintenance work.

    Skills You'll Need

    Mechanical aptitudeElectrical and ignition troubleshootingDiagnostic problem-solvingHand and power tool proficiencyAttention to detail and safety mindsetCustomer communication and service writing basicsPhysical stamina and dexterityTime management under deadlines

    Pros & Cons

    Pros

    • Hands-on work with motorcycles and powersports vehicles
    • Skills transfer across many small-engine and vehicle systems
    • Opportunities to specialize (performance, electrical, custom builds)
    • Steady need for maintenance and repairs
    • Clear results and problem-solving satisfaction

    Cons

    • Physically demanding with frequent bending and kneeling
    • High time pressure during busy seasons
    • Exposure to noise, fumes, oils, and solvents
    • Pay can vary by region and shop volume
    • Work may include difficult diagnostics and comebacks
    FAQ

    Common Questions About the Motorcycle Mechanic Trade

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