Think your love of motorcycles could never translate into a lucrative income? Think again. With the price of gas skyrocketing and more people riding motorcycles, careers in this field have never looked better. All you need is some basic training.

Career Overview
According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, motorcycle mechanics held approximately 21,000 positions in 2006. Because employers look prefer candidates with prior experience, top positions typically go to those with formal training in small engine repair. And that means that...

Think your love of motorcycles could never translate into a lucrative income? Think again. With the price of gas skyrocketing and more people riding motorcycles, careers in this field have never looked better. All you need is some basic training.

Career Overview
According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, motorcycle mechanics held approximately 21,000 positions in 2006. Because employers look prefer candidates with prior experience, top positions typically go to those with formal training in small engine repair. And that means that graduates of motorcycle schools should have an edge in an industry ripe for growth. Employment of small engine mechanics on the whole is projected to increase by 12% through 2016; that's about as fast as the national average.

Employment Options
The variety in the field comes from learning different makes and models of motorcycles. Some employers will even go so far as to pay for manufacturer-lead training sessions on bikes they typically service. O*Net OnLine reports that common job titles for professionals with motorcycle degrees include Mechanic, Motorcycle Technician, Service Technician, Motorcycle Mechanic, Custom Bike Builder, ATV Technician, Motorsports Technician, Motorcycle Service Technician, and Scooter Mechanic.

Earnings Potential
As with most service industries, your salary level depends on a combination of prior experience and formal education. Payscale reveals that professionals with less than one year of experience earn on average $11.00 per hour. Those with twenty or more years on the job can expect just over $22.00. Candidates with motorcycle degrees typically have the opportunity to earn more money faster than those with on-the-job training only.

Sources:
Bureau of Labor Statistics
O*Net OnLine
Payscale