Total Motorcycle Community Forums

Being a new biker of a few months, it's time for the bike to undergo some basic maintenance. The manual was a good help for wasting time (wikipedia to the explanatory rescue) and although basic book know-how is nice, there's no replacing experience. The most expedient method convenient to me is some sort of maintenance class. Questions!!

a) What is the best way to look up where classes are offered, prices, etc? i.e. what to google

b) Are classes available that are hands-on?

c) Is there model specific classes?

d) Is taking a maintenance class really worth the time spent? I'm able to follow the manual, it's just alot to take in and my butt is (literally) on the (softly padded) line.

e) What differences would there be between general maintenance classes and certification classes?

I'd appreciate all the comments on the varieties of a motorcycle maintenence classes, value, etc, etc.

also, it was hard to avoid a zen and the art of reference. oh crap, i just did it, didn't i... lol@"crumb"

Most maintenance on a bike is fairly easy (ei change oil, adjust and lube chain etc) and the book can be followed fairly easily. Can always post specific questions on this site too.
If a class doesn't have hands on training I wouldn't bother with it. Can get the same info from the book.
Doubtfull there would be enough interest in your area for a model specific class.
May be best to try and find someone to sort of mentor you.
I am an auto mechanic and have found my bike very easy to work on,, but I still have a mentor.
Best of luck.

Try a local junior college. They always tend to offer car or motorcycle maintenance classes.

Have you checked out Dan's online MC repair course? It's pretty good!

http://www.dansmc.com/MC_repaircourse.htm

I found a small engine motorcycle repair course - 4 semesters at the local tech school in Milwaukee here so I am sure whereever you are will have similar things - also I noticed on a few motorcycle schools that along with beginer MSF and intermediate/advanced riding classes several had one day maintenance classes

Some stealerships, and Junior Colleges have a basic maintenance classes or seminars. They are also offered by some bike groups on a local basis. (I have seen them offered by ABATE, the CMA, and several riding groups both on road and dirt bike orientated.) Also keep in mind that a maintenance class is just that a maintenance class not a mechanics class. You will l,earn basic stuff that is in owners manual plus some minor mechanical repairs and tune ups. You will not learn major repairs an motor/trans rebuild. It will teach you how to save some money by doing the simple stuff (scheduled maint.) yourself instead of dealer.

If you have been riding for a few years or more the class will probably not help much. However if you are new to motorcycles, have never done your own maintenance, or have trouble understanding the owners manual a maintenance class is something I would highly suggest.