MOTORCYCLE MECHANIC SALARY, DUTIES AND JOB OUTLOOK

If you’re passionate about motorcycles and want to turn that passion into a career, becoming a motorcycle technician could be a rewarding path. Skilled technicians are needed to inspect, maintain and repair motorcycles, ATVs, side-by-sides and other powersports vehicles across the country.

This guide covers motorcycle mechanic salaries, common job duties and the factors that can impact earnings. You’ll also learn how training from a school like Universal Technical Institute (UTI) can help you prepare to get started in this exciting field.¹

What Does a Motorcycle Mechanic Do?

Job description 

A motorcycle technician’s main role is to diagnose and repair mechanical or electrical problems on a range of vehicles, including cruisers, sport bikes, dirt bikes and personal watercraft. They may perform everything from basic tune-ups to major engine overhauls.

Responsibilities 

Now you know a bit about what a motorcycle technician does. But what does an average day on the job look like for them? Day-to-day tasks can vary depending on the type of shop or brand, but commonly include:

• Inspecting and repairing transmissions and engines.
• Performing oil and fluid changes.
• Replacing worn or damaged parts.
• Mounting, balancing and checking tires.
• Diagnosing mechanical or electrical issues using specialized tools.
• Assembling, disassembling and rebuilding systems as needed.
• Maintaining accurate service records and communicating repairs to customers.

Some technicians work on specific brands or specialize in a certain type of vehicle. These factors can also affect the tasks they perform day-to-day.

The typical work environment for a motorcycle technician is fast-paced. They’ll work with other mechanics and must keep up with the dynamic changes that come their way.

It’s also important for technicians to adhere to safety procedures. This includes wearing protective eyewear and gloves that help prevent injuries when repairing different vehicles.

Motorcycle technicians can work in many settings, including:

• Custom bike shops
• Brand-specific dealerships
• Independent repair shops
• Police departments
• Motorcycle trade schools

Successful technicians must pay close attention to detail and be passionate about their work. A good work ethic can also take you a long way in the industry! Explore more about different motorbike technician careers here.

What is the Average Motorcycle Technician Salary? 

One of the questions you may have when thinking of pursuing a career in the industry is, “What is the average salary for a motorcycle mechanic?”

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual salary for a motorcycle mechanic in the United States was $47,200 in May 2024.³⁰ This means half of motorcycle technicians earned more and half earned less. Keep in mind that motorcycle mechanic pay depends on several factors, including experience, employer, demand and cost of living in the area.

There are many people driving motorcycles every day. So, as long as people are out there cruising, there will be a demand for qualified technicians and mechanics to work on bikes!

Once technicians have gained experience in the industry, they have the potential to pursue other motorcycle technician employment opportunities. These might include management positions or roles that are more customer-service oriented, like service writer.⁶

What Can Affect a Motorcycle Mechanic’s Salary? 

While the median salary provides a baseline, there are several factors that influence how much a motorcycle technician earns.

Level of experience and training 

Entry-level technicians typically earn less than seasoned professionals. Over time, hard work, experience and continued training can lead to increased pay and expanded responsibilities, such as supervisory or diagnostic specialist roles.

Employer type and industry 

Motorcycle technicians employed at brand dealerships may have access to more consistent workloads and benefits compared to those at smaller independent shops. However, independent technicians can sometimes earn more through self-employment or custom repair work.

Geographic location 

Pay rates often reflect the cost of living. Technicians working in states like California, Texas and Florida, where motorcycles are popular year-round, may have access to more consistent work.

Manufacturer certifications and specializations 

Training and manufacturer-specific certifications (like Harley-Davidson®, Honda or Yamaha) can help a technician stand out. Specialized knowledge often leads to better-paying positions and increased job stability.

Hours worked and overtime opportunities 

Some shops operate extended hours, giving technicians a chance to earn overtime pay, particularly during busy riding seasons.

Independent vs. dealership work 

Independent shop owners have higher earning potential but take on more responsibility for business costs, marketing and equipment. Dealership technicians may earn less overall but benefit from structured pay and steady customer flow.

Motorcycle Technician Job Demand 

As long as people are riding motorcycles, there will be demand for qualified technicians.

According to the BLS, about 14,900 motorcycle mechanics were employed nationwide in 2024, and openings are expected to continue as older workers retire or transition to other industries.

Technicians with manufacturer certifications and hands-on training from a program like UTI’s may have an advantage when seeking employment.