The Personal Blog Of
Boston Motorcycle Attorney

Local Motorcycle Mechanics Vs. Dealer Repairs
March 2, 2010

There is no comparison between the quality of motorcycle manufacturing before 1970 and today. Even bikes made 20 years ago were not made to the manufacturing and engineering standards of today’s bikes. Major motorcycle manufacturers have stepped up their efforts to make more reliable motorcycles and have done a great job overall.

Regardless of the manufacturing quality, all motorcycles break down at some point.

Just like your car, motorcycles require regularly scheduled maintenance like oil and fluid changes. Also, motorcycles require major scheduled maintenance.

Sometimes, you’ll hop on your cruiser or sport bike and the thing just won’t start.

Now, here’s an important tip. In most cases, it’s perfectly OK to take your bike to your local motorcycle mechanic to get most minor repairs and some major repairs accomplished. In many cases, a local mechanic can do the same work faster and cheaper than a motorcycle dealer while achieving the same result.

Here’s the great thing that local mechanics can do that most dealers will not. Local mechanics often will let you hang out and watch them repair your bike. In many situations, they will explain to you exactly what they think the problem is, tell you what needs to happen to repair the mishap, and allow you to watch them work.

This is a huge benefit and an important part of riding motorcycles. Even if you have no intention of doing any motorcycle repairs yourself (like me) it’s important to understand the nuances of motorcycle repair. If you ever have to go to the dealer unexpectedly or utilize another mechanic in a pinch, you are not completely at the mercy of whatever they tell you.

However, your motorcycle dealer should definitely be part of your motorcycle repair team. Major repairs should be done by certified dealers who can also provide service guarantees. That way, your motorcycle investment is protected.

Remember, an informed biker is the best biker. Next time you go to see your mechanic for scheduled maintenance, take a few hours, hang out in the shop, and ask lots of questions. Knowledge is power.