I did the introduction course that you mentioned (back in 2006) at merton college . And then the Advanced course, the following year. It covered a bit electrics but not much.

Both were very good. Shame Howard is gone he was great.

I certainly recommend it.

Electrics can be tricky as I found out during my year in south America. Most of the problems related to my bike were electrics. Learning a bit there could be useful.
Learn what the Voltage regulator does. It is easy to replace. Learn how to do it.
About Batteries, how to replace it, test is, how to jump start from another vehicule.
Pack a voltmeter. Even better, fit a voltmeter so that you can monitor if your battery is charging (and hence if your VR is working).

Just these few bits could save you a lot of trouble on the road...
If you ride an F650 make sure you fit a SEALED battery. The idiotic position of the oil tank next to the battery will cause the battery to dry and in turn can cause many problems...

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Maria

www.franglais-riders.com

I've got to ask, how mechanically competent are you? If you're reasonably OK with the spanners and capable of a basic service on a car, changing its brakes and suspension components then you'll learn more from buying a knackered old bike and stripping/rebuilding it with the help of a Haynes manual.

Many faults on modern bikes are electrical so this course not covering it is a mistake. Definitely buy a multimeter, learn how to use it properly and don't even think about making do with a test lamp as they can wreck havoc with electronics, particularly fuel injection circuits.

Hi Craig,

I can only do the VERY basics. I could change brake pads etc but not much more. Part of the reason for wanting to do this course is learn the shortcuts, tricks and to understand what faults cause what problems etc.

Being able to change,fix or service those parts that tend to wear/fail will just give me an awful lot of confidence, and if nothing else will mean i'm more likely to try and save cash and carry out some servicing myself.

Living in London, the required space for a spare bike to practice on just isn't feasible and i can say with a degree of certainty that my better half would be less than impressed if bits of bike started appearing around the house!....

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www.motoventurers.com

In that case, the course could be just right for you. Bear in mind that there's a huge difference in courses like this aimed at DIY owner/riders/drivers compared to the course your mate is doing which is aimed at the motor trade, even at fast-fit and NVQ entry level. However, being an informed participant in the discussion when you book your bike in at the dealer may ensure that the work you pay for, actually gets done!

I would ask about bringing your own bike into the workshop so you can learn about problems specific to your bike, but don't be surprised if they say no due to H&S and litigation reasons.

Get a copy of your bike's workshop manual and also copy of the Haynes Motorcycle Basics Techbook. Reading the relevant section of the Techbook after each workshop session will help you understand the task which may help with diagnosing problems, even if you then resort to a dealer to fix them.

Good Luck!


Motorcycle Basics Techbook (Haynes Techbooks): Amazon.co.uk: Matthew Coombs, Pete Shoemark: Books

I've been looking for something like this as well, if anyone knows of somewhere in the Nottinghamshire area I'd appreciate it - so far I've come up with nothing.

"A little knowledge is dangerous"


I think you should do the course but understand the limitations. Don't think you will be able to start pulling your engine apart and rebuilding your calipers because you do a short course. And if you haven't been properly trained and examined to do a job, please get someone who is to check it over.

I trained as a moto mechanic going through all the levels and eventually getting all the way through my IMI registration. It took 4 years of hard work and practical examination.

When I completed my first year, I was full of confidence thought I could rebuild any type of bike with my eyes closed ... Well, surprise surprise.. I COULDN'T, and I made costly and maybe dangerous mistakes on the way to working that out.

Remember that what you learn in these classes will be in a workshop environment. You will have a box full of proper tools, manuals and power equipment. Changing a tyre with a hydraulic machine and an airline is WAY WAY different than fixing a puncture on the side of the road using hand tools..

DEFINITELY do the course & gain knowledge and confidence, but as I say ! Know the limitations for your own safety !

Peace & love !

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Did some trips.
Rode some bikes.
Fix them for a living.
Can't say anymore.

Hi there!

Bang on advice so far. If I may reiterate, being unable to fix something but at least knowing what is wrong can save you from being ripped off.
It's an old adage but, I trained to become a teacher but didn't learn how to teach until I had a class of teens sat in front of me.
I'd suggest the same. Buy a cheap second bike. Crashed, blown, whatever. Buy the relevant Haynes manual (gold), strip it, rebuild it, make mistakes, think about it, read the book, try again ....etc.
You'll learn loads, you'll enjoy it and maybe you might make a few quid on resale? I'd suggest it to be a better option than the classroom. Get some buddies on board and make it a social event! But be careful, you might end up in the shed every night instead of watching TV with the missus....

This way, you'll appreciate good tools, you'll start to build a nice collection that will probably last you for life rather than borrowing someone else's. I still have and use the same tools I had as an apprentice. You'll know your way around your toolbox rather than the ones hanging on the classroom wall. And riding a rebuilt machine for the first time is still an experience I cherish.

I'm not knocking the courses, they're great by all accounts, but for the purpose of roadside repairs and minor fettling, you can't beat experience and learning by mistakes is invaluable. You never forget them!

Pete