Harley-Davidson mechanic training is offered at various public and private technical training institutions. According to Harley-Davidson.com, Harley-Davidson dealerships require technical training to be hired as a mechanic. Some schools that offer the technical training are Motorcycle Mechanics Institute in Phoenix and Orlando, Florida, (offers a complete education aligned with Harley-Davidson University), Fort Scott Community College in Kansas, Central Carolina Community College in North Carolina and Lake Washington Technical College in Washington.
Training Time Frame
At Motorcycle Mechanics Institute, you will start with a 30-week training that focuses on service, repair and maintenance of motorcycles. After the 30 weeks you then move on to Harley-Davidson Technology. Motorcycle Mechanics Institute offers an early and/or late model Harley-Davidson program. You will also become certified through online courses with Harley-Davidson Motor Company. Fort Scott Community College offers a two-year program eligible to graduate with a Associate of Applied Science degree in motorcycle service technology. Central Carolina Community College offers a diploma and a certification course. The diploma course is a total of 46 credit hours and the certification course is a total of 12 credit hours. Lake Washington Technical College offers an Associate of Applied Science degree that consists of 113 credits in six quarters.
- At Motorcycle Mechanics Institute, you will start with a 30-week training that focuses on service, repair and maintenance of motorcycles.
Specialised Training
Harley-Davidson specialised training includes Electrical Diagnostics, Crash Estimating, Chassis Service, Screamin Eagle, Buell, V-Rod, Big Twin Power-train, Vehicle Maintenance and the Harley-Davidson 45-inch engine.
Benefits
Becoming a Harley-Davidson Technician opens the door to many different job opportunities. You can work in a Harley-Davidson dealership, V-twin custom shop, Harley-Davidson Race Team, a shop that restores older Harley-Davidson motorcycles, or go into business for yourself.
Misconceptions
One misconception about someone who works on motorcycles is that he is covered in grease and works in a dungeon-like garage. Harley-Davidson no longer uses the title "mechanic," instead referring to Harley-Davidson technicians. The days of smelly dirty garages are over. Now the technicians work in state-of-the-art facilities that house the best tools and machinery available.
- One misconception about someone who works on motorcycles is that he is covered in grease and works in a dungeon-like garage.
Take it Seriously
Remember that you are about to enter a career that places peoples lives in your hands daily. Becoming a certified motorcycle technician is not something you do for fun. This is a very technical and serious career that should never be taken lightly. Harley-Davidson is the most well-known motorcycle in the world, and Harley-Davidson owners expect expertise.
- Remember that you are about to enter a career that places peoples lives in your hands daily.