I am trying to learn as much as I can from reading and working on my own bike. There are no tech schools here (surprising). I am willing to work at your shop for free on my off days if you just teach me. If anybody knows a shop that is willing to take an apprentice, can you pass the word?

 

Why don't you call around and show up to your local shops and ask? Find one that you seem to like and just keep showing up. Be social, ask nicely, don't get in the way and maybe if they see you're willing to not only observe but to sweep the floors, clean the toilets and maybe move bikes around, they'll let you become an apprentice.

 

Could be a liability issue to have someone working in the mechanics area that is not a paid employee.

Most shops won't let anyone in the work area because of insurance stipulations.

They even have signs at Jiffy Lube to stay out of the work area.

 

solid advice to me...

 

those insurance regs are there for attacks on the customers from the mechanics! We don't want them "helping" or "supervising". in todays world, if a customer sprains his wrist getting water from the fountain, you're gonna get sued. A verbal agreement from owner would put the guy under umbrella of insurance. just depends if a shop owner wants the distraction of an "apprentice" as it does take away the focus of a tech, if he's trying to teach and work at the same time. but give it a try. if you're thinking about making this a living, I suggest singing or dancing first!! Pays a lot better!!

 

LABOR--------------------------$ 55.00 per hr
If You Watch-------------------$ 75.00 per hr
If you Help---------------------$ 95.00 per hr
If you make Suggestions--------You can't Afford It

 

Maybe they don't need scratches on their customers paint jobs.

 

what all do you need to learn how to do? we are in woodstock... as stated putting someone in the shop that is not very familiar with what is going on is a risk, exp on customer bikes... if you need help with something let me know i live in Elgin and have a full scale shop set up at my house as well for my own toys so i do not have to drive into our shop when i want to tinker on my own stuff

 

This is what the brotherhood is all about!
Joe , you are one stand up guy to help someone out like that...!

 

Another thing is maybe look through the Sporty manual and see what tools you don't have, some specialized tools can be made cheaper than buying and some you may not need, but a good basic tool set is a must.

Also I find a digital camera works well when disassembling things, take step by step pictures and use them when you have doubts about reassembly.

Al