Motorcycle mechanics service, repair, overhaul and assemble motorcycles, scooters and similar vehicles. They determine the nature and extent of malfunctions.
Motorcycle mechanics may connect and test the engine panel; measure and adjust the generator output, ignition and timing. They dismantle engines and repair or replace defective parts. This may involve removing cylinder heads and grinding valves and manufacturing unobtainable parts, they then re-assemble and test the repaired engines.
Where necessary, they replace worn valves, pistons and cylinders; repair and adjust clutches, brakes and drive chains; repair, replace or adjust headlights, starters, mufflers and various other parts; panel-beat dents in frames and weld tears; and put in spokes and align wheels.
Satisfying Aspects
- working with your hands
- the challenge of diagnosing and solving problems
- steady employment
- the possibility of opening your own business
Demanding aspects
- possibility of injury or accidents on the job
- having to work in awkward or cramped positions
- working in dirty, noisy workshops
- dealing with impatient or overly critical customer
Requirements
A motorcycle and scooter mechanic should:
- be at least 16 years old;
- have mechanical ability;
- enjoy working with their hands and have manual dexterity;
- be practical;
- work accurately;
- have good eye-hand coordination;
- have good health and stamina.
School Subjects
Grade 10 Certificate.
Some employers prefer higher qualifications.
Compulsory Subjects: None
Recommended Subjects: Mechanical Technology, Engineering and Graphic Design, Technical Drawing, Mathematics, Physical Sciences
Training
There are three ways to qualify as a registered artisan:
1. An apprenticeship is a 4-year contract between company and apprentice, comprising a 12-week theoretical training, which includes 4 subjects at national exam level.
2. A learnership is a structured learning programme that leads to a qualification in a certain field. The learnership programme includes a theoretical and a practical component. It usually takes about a year to complete. The training takes place on-site (on the premises of the organisation). This has the advantage that the learner gets on-the-job experience whilst training.
3. FET colleges offer theoretical training to prospective artisans via the new National Certificate Vocational (NCV). During this 3-year programme (levels 2 to 4), learners complete a school-leaving certificate (this NCV) similar to the
new National Senior Certificate (NSC) in schools. They are also exposed to a practical workshop component.
All learners are required to complete a practical internship under the supervision of an experienced artisan. As an alternative to doing the full qualification, a learner can apply to do a skills programme at a FET College. Skills programmes are short practical hands-on courses.
For more information about qualifications and skills programmes, contact your nearest FET College. FET Colleges are accredited and funded by a SETA (Sector Education and Training Authority) such as MERSETA or CHIETA. They also receive bursary funding through the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) for the NCV programme.
Learners must all receive training in occupational safety and first aid, fire-fighting and preventative security measures. Learners study everything about the installation, maintenance and repair of all electrical equipment. They must also become familiar with municipal legislation relevant to electricity supply and consumption.
Employer
- Motorcycle and scooter dealers
- Government departments (to maintain police motorcycles and scooters)
- Firms that modify and maintain motorcycles and scooters
- Manufacturers of motorcycles and scooters
- Self-employment, with enough experience, initiative and capital, can start own business
Contact
MERSETA
P O Box 61826
Johannesburg, 2000
Tel: (011) 551-5202 Fax: 0866 730017
www.merseta.org.za