Motorcycle Repair Technician

Program Outline

Instruction Sets
Your program consists of eight Instruction Sets written to take you step-by-step through the knowledge and skills you'll use in your new career.

Computer Specifications
As you know this is an online academic program. This means you will need access to high-speed internet to begin your program. In addition, you will need access to a Microsoft® Windows® based computer running Windows 10® or later or an Apple® Mac® computer running macOS® or later, and an email account to complete this program.

Here's how it works: You receive the first course as soon as your enrollment has been processed, and other courses will follow as you complete your exams. You can earn your Career Diploma in as little as nine months. Here is an overview of what you'll learn and the order in which you'll access your lessons:

Program Goal and Outcomes

Program Goal: To prepare students to gain entry-level employment as motorcycle repair technicians by studying the components, systems, and troubleshooting procedures used in the motorcycle and ATV industry.

Program Outcomes:
Upon completion of the program, students will be able to:

  • List and describe the employment opportunities available in the motorcycle industry
  • Identify the different types of motorcycles and ATVs, and define the uses and advantages of each type
  • Name the various hand, power, and specialized tools you'll use when working with motorcycles and ATVs, and describe the safe work practices that must be observed
  • Identify the different types of motorcycle and ATV engine designs and configurations, including how manufacturers determine engine sizes and power ratings
  • List the major components and engine configurations of two-and four-stroke engines
  • Understand the theory behind the operation of motorcycle and ATV engines, including two- and four-stroke engines
  • Identify the types of lubricants and lubrication systems used in motorcycles and ATVs
  • Name the components of motorcycle cooling systems, and describe how they work
  • Identify fuel and carburetion systems, including various fuel delivery and fuel injection systems
  • Identify the transmissions and related components used in motorcycle and ATV engines, including the different gears, drive systems, and clutch types
  • Name the procedures used to disassemble and assemble motorcycle two- and four-stroke engines, including the necessary preliminary steps and inspection process
  • List the steps required to remove an engine from a chassis and install an engine into a chassis
  • Describe the basics of electricity, including how it works and how it's measured
  • Identify the different types of charging systems found on motorcycles and ATVs, and describe the operation and steps required for maintenance and troubleshooting
  • Identify the components and operation of ignition and electric starter systems
  • Name the different frame designs and suspension systems used by motorcycle and ATV manufacturers
  • Identify the different brake systems and brake system components used on motorcycles and ATVs, and describe how to perform maintenance
  • Recognize how to perform frame, wheel, and suspension system inspections and alignment procedures
  • Recognize how to perform engine, emission system, and chassis maintenance procedures
  • Identify how to diagnose and troubleshoot motorcycle and ATV problems, including engine, exhaust, ignition, electrical, and chassis problems

Instruction Set 1

Starting Your Program
Succeed by learning how to use your Penn Foster program. Understand how to use your Student Portal. Access the Penn Foster Community and use it to find answers. Connect with Penn Foster on various social media sites.

Introduction to Motorcycle and ATV Repair
Career opportunities; types of motorcycles and ATVs; tools; safety.

Instruction Set 2

Motorcycle and ATV Engine Configurations
Engine ratings; single- and multi-cylinder two- and four-stroke engines.

Practical Exercise 1

Instruction Set 3

Four-Stroke Internal-Combustion Engine
Four-stroke engine operation; basic components; compression and ignition.

Two-Stroke Internal-Combustion Engine
Two-stroke engine operation; the advantages and disadvantages of two-stroke engines.

Practical Exercise 2

Instruction Set 4

Lubrication and Cooling Systems
Lubricants; oil types; bearings; bushings; seals; two- and four-stroke engine lubrication; air and liquid cooling systems.

Fuel Systems
Operation and design of carburetors; fuel delivery and injection systems; fuel tank and accessories.

Clutches, Transmissions, and Drives
Clutch types and repair; inspecting and replacing transmission components; final drive systems.

Practical Exercise 3

Instruction Set 5

Two-Stroke Engine Top End Inspection
Removal of engine and top end components; top end reassembly; installing the engine.

Two-Stroke Engine Lower End Inspection
Removing external engine components; crankshaft repair; lower end reassembly.

Four-Stroke Engine Top End Inspection
Engine removal; disassembly, inspection and reassembly of top end; engine installation and break-in.

Four-Stroke Engine Lower End Inspection
Removing electrical components, clutch, and oil pump; crankshaft disassembly and inspection; engine reassembly.

Practical Exercise 4

Instruction Set 6

Electrical Fundamentals
AC and DC current; circuits; electrical measurement.

Charging and Ignition Systems
Operation of charging and ignition systems; types and components; troubleshooting and maintenance.

DC Circuits for Motorcycles and ATVs
Starting systems; lighting and special accessory circuits; warning gauges/lights.

Practical Exercise 5

Equipment: Digital Multimeter

Instruction Set 7

Frames, Steering, and Suspension
Motorcycle/ATV frames; front and rear suspension; steering systems.

Brakes, Wheel Assemblies, and Tires
Drum and hydraulic disc brakes; anti-lock braking systems (ABS); wheel assemblies and axles.

Practical Exercise 6

Instruction Set 8

Motorcycle Maintenance
Engine maintenance; emission systems controls operation and maintenance; detailing/cleaning; storage.

Motorcycle Troubleshooting
Troubleshooting drive system, electrical, carburetion, chassis, and engine-related problems.

Practical Exercise 7

Work Experience Option

 

Online Library and Librarian
Students in Penn Foster Career School have access to an online library for use during their studies. Students can use this library to do the required research in the courses they complete or can use it for general reference and links to valuable resources. The library contains helpful research assistance, articles, databases, books, and Web links. A librarian is available to answer questions on general research-related topics via email and to assist students in research activities during their studies with Penn Foster Career School International.

We reserve the right to change program content and materials when it becomes necessary.

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