WHAT TO EXPECT FROM MOTORCYCLE MECHANIC COURSES
Universal Technical Institute
Our instructors have real-world experience and are invested in the educational success of our students. At UTI, you can get the training you need to prepare for a career in an evolving industry that includes motorcycles, ATVs, side-by-sides, personal watercraft, snowmobiles and more.1 In these motorcycle technician classes, you’ll be training alongside people who share your love for a finely tuned machine and that feeling of freedom.
Hands-On Training with Real-World Motorcycle Scenarios18
Hands-on motorcycle mechanic training allows students to train directly on a variety of motorcycles, simulating the types of repairs and maintenance tasks they would encounter in the industry. This practical application includes diagnosing and fixing issues in engines, electrical systems and suspensions under the guidance of skilled instructors. By engaging with industry-aligned tools and techniques, students can build the confidence and competence needed for real-world challenges.
This type of training bridges the gap between classroom learning and professional expectations, helping students develop job-ready skills to pursue entry-level industry roles after graduation. It exposes them to the fast-paced, problem-solving nature of the field, helping them develop critical thinking and adaptability. Employers value graduates who have undergone motorcycle training with hands-on courses, as they’re more likely to be productive and effective from day one on the job.
Powersports Mathematics and Physical Science Principles: Engines and Transmissions
In this motorbike mechanic course, students will be taught the theory and operating principles of four-stroke engines. They will also be taught about the design and function of various engine and transmission configurations, clutches and primary drive systems. These lessons take place through a series of hands-on lab demonstrations that will allow students to disassemble the system and practice their measuring skills.
Students are introduced to professional work standards, shop safety rules, proper use of common hand tools and manufacturer’s service manuals, with special focus on the use of precision measuring tools.
Chassis, Suspension, and Final Drive
Students will be taught about design, operation and maintenance procedures of motorcycle suspension systems, including servicing of steering head bearings and suspension components, as well as brake systems. This motorcycle mechanic course also teaches the various types of tire construction; wheel removal and replacement; tire removal and replacement; dynamic and static tire balancing; chain peen removal and replacement; and ATV tire removal and replacement.
Powersports Physical Science Principles: Electrical Fundamentals
Students will be taught the fundamentals of electricity. Subjects include electrical theory; Ohm’s and Watt’s laws; series and parallel circuits; and how each of these principles is applied to the electrical systems on a motorcycle. This motorcycle technician course will also teach students to use electrical demonstration boards and components to build and test various circuits.
Also taught will be the design and function of the common electrical systems found on modern motorcycles and powersports equipment from a variety of manufacturers. These systems include starting, ignition, charging and lighting systems.
This motorcycle mechanic course also introduces the tools and procedures used to verify proper operation of these systems. The tools include digital multimeters and wiring schematics.
The lab tasks are performed on fully operational motorcycles. Students will also be taught to make wiring repairs using soldering equipment and connector crimping tools.
Powersports Physical Science Principles and Consumer Communication: Vehicle Maintenance
Students will be taught periodic maintenance procedures for motorcycle and powersports equipment; engine inspection and adjustment procedures; oil and oil filter service; cooling system theory; inspection and servicing; as well as chassis adjustments. Instruction also will cover the use of specialized maintenance equipment, including valve train service and adjustment tools, and throttle body synchronization tools. In addition, students can learn the proper selection and use of solvents and lubricants.
Instruction will be provided on the use of common dealer management system (DMS) software. This gives students the opportunity to train with electronic repair orders and parts catalogs, helping to create an accurate simulation of a working service department environment.
Engine Troubleshooting & Noise Diagnosis
Building upon the skill sets learned in MOTD-101 (Powersports Mathematics and Physical Science Principles: Engines and Transmissions), in this portion of their motorcycle mechanic curriculum, students will learn about the tools and procedures used to diagnose common engine issues. This includes the use of diagnostic test equipment; identifying and interpreting engine noises; and disassembly and inspection of the engines and engine subsystems. Additional instruction will cover cam timing, engine clearance measurements and service limits.
Electrical Diagnostics
This motorcycle mechanic course builds upon the skill sets learned in MOTD-103 (Powersports Physical Science Principles: Electrical Fundamentals). Students will be introduced to the tools and procedures used to diagnose common electrical issues on a variety of motorcycle systems, including starting, ignition, fuel injection and charging systems. Students are introduced to computer-based diagnostic tools; accessing and clearing of diagnostic codes; and the use of graphical data to troubleshoot EFI and electrical problems.
Tools and Equipment Used During Motorcycle Training
During motorcycle training at UTI, students utilize industry-aligned tools and diagnostic equipment to perform repairs and maintenance on various motorcycle makes and models. This includes specialized tools for engines, transmissions and electrical systems, as well as advanced diagnostic technology to troubleshoot modern bikes.
By training with the same tools used in professional shops, students can gain practical skills that prepare them to pursue real-world careers after graduation.