This means if you want to become a motorcycle mechanic, you have to be top-notch. But how do you get to that point where your skills are trusted with great motorcycle repair. It’s simple, attend the best motorcycle mechanic school. By attending one of the best motorcycle mechanic schools will help build your resume in order to get the best job ever. However, regardless of whether or not you own a motorcycle, you can still learn some skills that would go a long way in generating income and reducing costs. All you need is an interest in becoming a motorcycle mechanic, so you can start looking for online motorcycle repair courses. It won’t take you long to fix the breakdowns, not to mention that others will also hire your services. This article helps you explore some of the best motorcycle mechanics school and online courses for motorcycle repair. Ultimately, you should be able to settle for one that matches your search for a new skill. But first, check out the table of content below to see what we have for you.
What Does a Motorcycle Mechanic Do?
It’s important you get to know the exact thing a motorcycle mechanic does, this will give you an edge when you start your study. A motorcycle mechanic is also known as a motorcycle technician or motorcycle maintenance technician. So this what a Motorcycle mechanic does, a motorcycle mechanic ensures that the motorcycles he maintains are in good working order and safe. These technicians can work with a wide range of bike types, from custom helicopters and touring editions to high-powered racing bikes and off-road motorcycles. Also, many mechanics work more than just bikes. They often have the skills to work on ATVs, snowmobiles, personal jet skis, and other motor vehicles that run on small engines. Above all, technicians can find work at motorcycle repair shops, dealers, manufacturers, racing teams, and salvage yards. Depending on where they work and the level of experience they have, their daily tasks may include:
Do I Need To Attend A Motorcycle Mechanic School to Become a Motorcycle Mechanic?
To become a motorcycle mechanic, you need a high school diploma or GED certificate along with training in motorbike maintenance. You can earn your mechanic qualifications through certification and diploma programs at a technical school or community college.
Qualification to Get into School
The qualifications you need to enter a motorcycle mechanic school vary from school to school. For example, most motorcycle repair schools will have a minimum GPA requirement in high school, while some may only require a high school diploma or GED. Along with that, most motorcycle mechanic schools require students to have an eligible driver’s license, which is a good idea if you plan to work on automobiles in general! Eventually, some schools may require an interview as part of their admission process. Be sure to contact your desired motorcycle technician school to make sure you know what you need to participate.
Certification Requirements
In most states, frankly speaking, you don’t need formal skills to be a mechanic who works on motorcycles. But it’s always best to check with the state you plan to work to make sure. Some states have requirements, and employers often encourage mechanics to take a formal education to learn the basics. For example, some states, such as Michigan and Hawaii, require motorcycle mechanics to obtain a special state license or certification before they can work for the public. Obtaining state certification generally involves paying fees and passing a written exam. As with most mechanical programs, when you finish motorcycle repair school, you can earn a variety of awards or certifications. Most motorcycle mechanic schools only offer training at the certificate level. There are Level 1 and Level 2 certifications that are awarded as more specialized training to lead or accompany a more general associate degree. At the same time, some motorcycle technician schools will offer an associate degree in motorcycle mechanics. Both options are great, although one may be more suitable for you than the other. If you know you only want to work on a motorcycle, the associate degree is perfect for you. On the other hand, if you don’t know if you’ll want to work on motorcycles forever, a general degree in automotive technology with a certificate in motorcycle mechanics might be the best! Keep this in mind when choosing a motorcycle technician school. Then you become a certified motorcycle mechanic by completing a special motorcycle repair training workshop through top brands like Harley-Davidson, BMW, Honda, Yamaha, and Suzuki. Some employers even pay to send their mechanics to these workshops. In addition to training qualifications, a motorcycle mechanic generally must have at least a high school diploma to start, as well as a motorcycle driver’s license.
How Long is Motorcycle Mechanic School?
The time it takes to become a motorcycle mechanic varies from student to student and from each motorcycle mechanic school, as each has different learning and teaching styles. In general, it will take 1 to 2 years of motorcycle mechanics training to become certified full-time. If you take the learning path, it may take even longer to become fully certified, but you will be working all the time. Whether you earn a certificate or diploma, you will need at least 1 to 2 years of on-the-job training to be considered for a job. Here is a full detail of How Long It Take To Become A Mechanic?
Motorcycle Mechanic Schoool Cost
Program costs vary by type of school, location, quality of school facilities, and type of degree issued. Most programs award a diploma or certificate, but some grant an associate degree. Therefore, depending on the program you choose, motorcycle mechanic school costs between $3,000 and $25,000 or more. As with many things, it will vary depending on the school you attend and your personal situation. Regardless of scholarships, the motorcycle repair school can cost between $3,000 and $25,000. Some of the best motorcycle technician schools are likely to offer more costs, such as tools, safety equipment, uniform workshop suits, etc. Please note that there are many student scholarships and grants ranging from the cost of the motorcycle technician, we even have our own grant for aspiring mechanics! As part of this cost, you can benefit from:
Safety shoesGloves and welding capSafety glassesBuy jumpsuits or blousesTools
Various parts and other supplies as needed for different projects.Please note that financial aid is generally available to those who qualify.
What to Expect in Motorcycle Technical School
Like most types of mechanical work, being a motorcycle technician can be difficult on the body. If historically, you have not had the physical ability to work with your hands and stand most of the time, this will be your first step. It is important to be physically capable before starting a motorcycle technician school. Therefore, you are not spending all the time and money needed for motorcycle repair school, and you cannot use long-term training. In today’s motorcycle mechanic training, there are a few key things to keep in mind. As stated above, the motorcycle mechanics school will include a large amount of hands-on training. Many schools will offer two types of motorcycle technician programs; a general motorcycle repair program and a specialized motorcycle repair program. The general program is necessary because it lays the foundation for everyone else. From there, you will see specialized programs that focus on specific manufacturers like Harley Davidson or Ducati. Therefore, you can stop after general motorcycle mechanic training and work on a large number of bikes, but specialized mechanics often find it easier to find a job and can often demand higher wages. Make sure you know what specialties your motorcycle mechanics school offers so that you can get the training you need.
What is the Best Motorcycle Mechanic School?
Of course, there are a good number of schools that offer Motorcycle Mechanic, but knowing the best is what really matters. With this purpose in mind, we have made a list of 15 Best Motorcycle Mechanic Schools in the World, our 2022 Rankings. And we will be stating full detail of our ranking criteria.
List of 17 Best Motorcycle Mechanic Schools in the World | 2022 Rankings
If you are of a habit of searching the keyword ‘motorcycle mechanic school near me’ here is a list of the 17 Best Motorcycle Mechanic Schools in the World. Number of Programs: We consider these as one important criterion for ranking the best Schools for Motorcycle Mechanic. Because some of these schools can have a good number of programs they offer which will avail you a lot of options to choose from. Accreditation: This criterion is very much important because a school can be cheap but yet do not have quality. So, we consider the body of accreditation as well as certification for each of these schools before ranking them. Whether they fall in the category of regional or national accreditation. Acceptance Rate: This is one aspect that is considered important because of the lower the acceptance rate the better the school. Graduation & Employment Rate: Here, we consider if these schools have a high tendency of graduating their students. Some can get enrolled but get stuck at the end. Also, we put into consideration whether school graduates are employable by great institutions. These factors are equally very much important.
#1. Harley-Davidson at Motorcycle Mechanics Institute – Universal Technical Institute
Duration: 24 weeks Officially, the Motorcycle Mechanics Institute has provided Harley-Davidson dealers with trained technicians since 1983. MMI is the only technician training school offering a 24-week Harley-Davidson-specific elective program aligned with Harley-Davidson University. In addition to that, graduates have 12 months of work experience under the Harley-Davidson field recognition program after graduation and are qualified to work at an authorized Harley-Davidson dealer. Also, students have the opportunity to earn Harley-Davidson University Ph.D. (Harley-Davidson Professional) course credits for vehicle and chassis maintenance, and electrical diagnostics. Training also includes the opportunity to qualify for an advanced internship as part of the Harley-Davidson Technician Recognition Program.
#2. Motorcycle Mechanics Institute in Pheonix – Universal Technical Institute
Address: 2844 West Deer Valley Road Phoenix, AZ 85027 For those of you in Arizona, Motorcycle Mechanics Institute will be the perfect answer to the search, ‘motorcycle mechanic schools near me’. The Motorcycle Mechanics Institute (MMI) in Phoenix, Arizona prepares you with the basic skills for a career as a mechanical technician for motorcycles, ATVs, snowmobiles, and jet skis. At MMI, you will begin your motorcycle school training with a strong program that combines classroom preparation and hands-on experience. Most importantly, the Motorcycle Technician Prerequisite covers the key components of motorcycle technology and is the foundation for your professional development. In addition, you can follow one of the two core programs and then specialize with one or more options. You will receive hands-on training in our advanced laboratories and work with the technology found in the field. Above all, the Motorcycle Mechanics Institute’s (MMI) core programs provide graduates with the basic knowledge they need to prepare for a career as a technician in the motorcycle industry. Finally, students who complete the core program move on to manufacturer-specific electives that showcase the top brands in the motorcycle industry.
#3. Motoring Technical Training Institute – MTTI’s Motorcycle/Power Equipment Technician Program
Address: 1241 Fall River Avenue, Seekonk, MA MTTI’s Motorcycle / Powered Equipment Technician Program offers students in-depth training in motorcycle maintenance and repair. By taking hands-on courses at MTTI, gain invaluable experience working not just with motorcycles, but with a multitude of small engine systems. At MTTI, we train you to become a complete and competent motorcycle and small engine maintenance technician. While attending MTTI’s MTTI Motorcycle / Technical Program, you will spend hundreds of hours getting your hands dirty, gaining experience working on small engine systems! The work you do in class is completely necessary to become a competent and proficient technician on motorcycles or motorized equipment, but at MTTI, they emphasize the importance of learning by doing.
#4. Motorcycle Mechanics Institute in Orlando, Florida – Universal Technical Institute
Address: 9751 Delegates Drive Orlando, FL 32837 If you are passionate about motorcycles and want to prepare for a cycling career, MMI Motorcycle Orlando is the business school for you. Not only is it the best but the incredible weather in Orlando and the stunning nearby coastal rides are perfect for motorcycle enthusiasts. As an added bonus, MMI is minutes from all of Orlando’s world-famous attractions, including theme parks, water parks, boating, and professional sports. Above all, the Motorcycle Mechanics Institute (MMI) in Orlando has advanced instructors, facilities, tools, and technology to help you prepare for a career in the motorcycle industry. You will get to know a motorcycle, an ATV, side by side, a snowmobile, and a jet ski as you train in vehicles for each season. This motorcycle mechanic school located in Orlando will be the best fit for prospective students.
#5. Cedar Valley College – Motorcycle Technology Certificate
Address: 3030 N. Dallas Ave. Lancaster, TX 75134 Specifically, this program is designed to train students to meet entry-level requirements in the field of motorcycle mechanics. At most, this will include the diagnosis, repair, and maintenance of foreign and domestic motorcycles. Also, this program includes the study of fuel, ignition, and electrical systems, overhaul, and tuning of the engine and chassis of the motorcycle. Throughout the program, the focus is on the latest factory-recommended techniques. Since not all courses in this program are transferable, students who enroll in this program and who plan to transfer to a four-year institution should consult with an advisor regarding transfer requirements.
#6. River Bend Career and Technical Center – Automotive Technology Program
Address: 36 Oxbow Drive Bradford, VT 05033 If you choose to study at River Bend, it’s important you know that careers in the River Bend Automotive Technology Program require attention to the latest technology and the provision of excellent service and repair. With the support of our N.A.T.E.F. Certified automotive program, students diagnose and repair engines, brakes, steering, electrical systems, and suspensions. Above all, the articulation agreements between River Bend and Northwestern Ohio University guarantee a higher level of education and advanced study opportunities beyond high school. Most importantly, their fully equipped auto shop accommodates nine service vehicles at a time, providing daily hands-on training with industry-recognized instructions.
#7. Chippewa Valley Technical College – Automotive Maintenance Technician Program
Address: 620 W. Clairemont Ave, Eau Claire, WI 54701 Currently, the automotive industry is evolving as consumers demand vehicles that offer better mileage, higher safety ratings, higher performance, comfort, and style. CVTC’s one-year service program will provide you with basic auto repair training. You will explore a variety of techniques for maintaining and repairing automobiles. This program will allow you to gain detailed knowledge of all vehicle components and diagnostic equipment. Hence, if you choose to continue your studies, you will have completed the first year of the two-year program and will be able to enroll in the second year. In order to enroll in the two-year auto technician program, you must first take all courses in the self-service technician program.
#8. Alexandria Technical & Community College – Marine, Motorcycle, & Powersports Technician Program
Address: 495 North Indian Creek Drive Clarkston, GA 30021 Alexandria Technical and Community College is a motorcycle school located in Georgia. The diverse training in this program prepares graduates for the repair of lawn and garden equipment, snowmobiles, outboards/outboards, ATVs, jet skis, and motorcycles. The first and second year last two semesters with an internship at a dealership at the end of the first year. College days are six hours with an average of two hours in the classroom and four hours in the store. Class time is spent on theory, proper procedures, and security. These practices are applied and developed in the store. The following manufacturers provide support for the Marine Mechanics and Small Engine Program:
Polar StarStihlBullVolvo PentaYamahaArctic CatBriggs & StrattonBRPKohlerHarley Davidson
#9. Canadian Valley Technology Center – Automotive Technician at El Reno Campus
Address: 6505 E Highway 66 El Reno, OK 73036 CV Tech’s Automotive Service Technology program is a NATEF-certified program that focuses on diagnosing and repairing cars and trucks. Including current computer-controlled models. Most importantly, students learn the following systems: brakes, steering and suspension, electricity, heating, and air conditioning. As well as automatic transmission, manual transmission and transmission, engine repair, and performance.
#10. Georgia Piedmont Technical College – Automotive Technology Associates Degree Program
Address: 495 North Indian Creek Drive Clarkston, GA 30021 An Associate in Applied Science (AAS) in Automotive technology at Georgia Piedmont Technical College is a two-year degree commonly issued by technical colleges. AAS study programs take 18 to 24 months to complete. Also, AAS degrees are available in a wide range of fields leading to many opportunities. Some students choose to continue their studies and use their associate diploma to earn their bachelor’s degree. In many areas, an AAS degree is enough for a rewarding career. In addition, there is a diploma course in motorcycle service technology. The program emphasizes a combination of mechanical theory and practical experience. This program includes courses on motorcycle engines, chassis systems, electrical systems, fuel systems and includes internship experience.
#11. Wisconsin Indianhead Technical College – Automotive Technician
Address: 505 Pine Ridge Drive Shell Lake, WI 54871-8727 If you like technology and problem solving, you may find the career, automotive technician rewarding. To make the best out of it, you need to equip yourself with relevant knowledge by attending one of the best motorcycyle technical schools. Today, cars are no longer just mechanical. Many like to drive from one place to another on a high-tech machine, but vehicle maintenance and repair are no longer within the reach of most owners. Turn your passion for the car into a stimulating career. With an emphasis on hands-on experience, in the Automotive Technician Program, you will learn essential service techniques, including testing, repairing, and rebuilding basic automotive systems. Course work will prepare you to diagnose and repair problems in engines, transmissions, brakes, electrical systems, steering, suspension, transmission systems, as well as basic, hybrid, and alternative diesel systems.
#12. College of Western Idaho – Automotive Technology
Address: Nampa Campus Academic Building 5500 E If the sound of an engine makes your heartbeat, CWI’s automated technical program calls for it. Basically, the technicians will tell you that the best education is the one that gives you a great experience. This is what makes our program so unique. In the first year, you will learn all automotive systems, including brakes, fuel injection, electronic controls. As well as automatic transmissions, on-board diagnostic and scanning equipment, and the latest computer systems. Then the second year is completely dedicated to the experience. You will learn on the job. The second-year covers engine performance, automatic transmissions/transaxles, heating, and cooling. As well as the use of analytical tools, laboratory glasses, and other advanced diagnostic tools. Finally, the internship is where students can have the opportunity to work in an industry repair shop, to make their dream come true.
#13. Washtenaw Community College – Automotive Service Technology (APASRV)
Address: 4800 E. Huron River DriveAnn Arbor, MI This associate degree program prepares students for employment in a technical position related to the automotive industry or as a certified automotive technician. Students will diagnose and repair dysfunctions in:
automotive enginessuspensions and steering systemsbrakeselectrical and electronic systemsengine handling problems
This program also offers opportunities to explore vehicle performance and participate in high-performance vehicle construction. The program prepares students for the Michigan State Mechanics Certification Tests, as well as for the National Institute of Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) certification exams. It is a high demand, high skill, and high salary program as defined by the Michigan Community College Network.
Online Motorcycle Technician Schools in the World
With modern test equipment and software, as well as increasingly complex and sophisticated systems, motorcycle repair specialists must stay up-to-date on some of the latest technologies. Many choose to develop the experience they need in an online training program for motorcycle mechanics. Most online motorcycle mechanic schools require a commitment of one year or less. These highly specific programs teach the basics of motorcycle testing, diagnosis, repair, and maintenance. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), motorcycle mechanics can expect a 4% growth in their field by 2024.
#14. Penn Foster Career School – Online Motorcycle Mechanic School
Address: 925 Oak Street, Scranton, PA 18515 USA If you want to learn how to become a motorcycle mechanic or just work on your own motorcycle, Penn Foster Career School is the place to start. Earn your career diploma as a motorcycle repair technician at home and at the pace that’s best for you. Most importantly, this program includes a work experience option, which allows you to gain field experience related to your program and career goals. In addition, Penn Foster Career School can help you learn how to repair and maintain your own motorcycle. Or it can help you take the first step toward a new job as a motorcycle mechanic. Above all, there are many job openings for motorcycle mechanics, including motorcycle repair shops, dealers, marinas, sporting goods stores, and more. In 2016, the average annual salary for a motorcycle mechanic was $37,040.
#15. Stratford Career Institute – Online ATV’s and Motorcycle Repair Program
Address: 495 North Indian Creek Drive Clarkston, GA 30021 If you’re looking for one of the best motorcycle technician schools, Stratford Career Institute is the go-to school. At Stratford, the focus areas of this program are tools, safety, configuration (for four and two-stroke engines), modern repair technology, and basic engine operation. Specifically, this is a personal development course, but for which the establishment has not yet obtained accreditation. However, it should be noted that Stratford is a member of the International Council for Open and Distance Education. As well as the EE Distance Learning Association in the USA and the Canadian Network for Innovation in Education. You can start today after completing the online registration, remember that the course is flexible.
#16. Ashworth College – Online Entry-Level Motorcycle Mechanic
Another online motorcycle repair course where you can get a certificate is the one offered by Ashworth College. Whether you want to turn a hobby into a career or you are a motorcycle enthusiast, this is a complete course where you will learn, among other things, engine repair, general motorcycle maintenance skills, replacement of drive parts, and diagnostics. Ashworth College is certified by the Distance Learning Commission and the Higher Education Council. The program is flexible. Therefore, students can access the course material day and night.
#17. Dan’s MC Motorcycle Repair Course Online
Dan’s MC online course has helped over 2 million people learn motorcycle repair skills. It is a free online learning platform that has offered large-scale courses for 11 years. You can choose from categories like fuel, repair, electricity, and frames. Each offers a complete learning experience. Here is a list of the Best Motorcycle mechanic Schools in the World:1. Harley-Davidson at Motorcycle Mechanics Institute – Universal Technical Institute2. Motorcycle Mechanics Institute in Pheonix – Universal Technical Institute3. Motoring Technical Training Institute – MTTI’s Motorcycle/Power Equipment Technician Program4. Motorcycle Mechanics Institute in Orlando, Florida – Universal Technical Institute5. Cedar Valley College – Motorcycle Technology Certificate6. River Bend Career and Technical Center – Automotive Technology Program7. Chippewa Valley Technical College – Automotive Maintenance Technician Program8. Alexandria Technical & Community College – Marine, Motorcycle, & Powersports Technician Program9. Canadian Valley Technology Center – Automotive Technician at El Reno Campus10. Georgia Piedmont Technical College – Automotive Technology Associates Degree Program11. Wisconsin Indianhead Technical College – Automotive Technician12. College of Western Idaho – Automotive Technology13. Washtenaw Community College – Automotive Service Technology (APASRV)14. Penn Foster Career School – Online Motorcycle Mechanic School15. Stratford Career Institute – Online ATV’s and Motorcycle Repair Program16. Ashworth College – Online Entry-Level Motorcycle Mechanic17. Dan’s MC Motorcycle Repair Course Online As with many things, this will vary depending on which school you go to and your personal situation. Disregarding scholarship opportunities, motorcycle repair school can cost anywhere from $3,000 to $25,000. Some of the more expensive motorcycle technician schools will likely provide more within the cost such as tools, safety gear, shop uniform coveralls, and more. The length it takes to become a motorcycle mechanic varies from student to student and from each different motorcycle mechanic school as everyone has different learning and teaching styles. In general, it will take 1 to 2 years of motorcycle mechanic training to be certified to work full-time. If you are taking the apprenticeship route, it can take even longer to be fully certified but you will be working the entire time. There are many different ways to become a certified motorcycle mechanic. First of all, there is the formal education route with many different motorcycle repair schools all across the nation. Another major route is through on-the-job training. There are two regular types of on-the-job training, apprenticeship or informal training. Apprenticeship is a more formal training experience with a set end-date and program. On the other hand, informal training on-the-job normally takes place when someone gets in at the ground level mopping floors and just picks up jobs as they can learn. Motorcycle mechanics get paid an average of $35,680 according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics in 2017. This will vary from location to location as well as a mechanic to mechanic. Some locations naturally have more motorcyclists which drive more traffic to shops and the more motorcycle mechanic training you have the higher pay you can demand. According to Simply Hired, the average salary of an MMI graduate is $64,269. This is much higher than the average salary of motorcycle mechanics showing that the extra investment in training really pays off. Keep in mind, this is not an exact or a guaranteed number. This was estimated from a number of submissions to Simply Hired.
In Conclusion
As mentioned above, if you want to become a successful motorcycle mechanic, all you need to do is to attend the Best Motorcycle Mechanic School in the World. Most importantly, we have made our 2022 rankings of the Motorcycle Mechanic Schools and they are top-notch. Also, we included online schools that offer Motorcycle Mechanic Programs. Do well to apply now!
