Ride to Live: 6 Motorcycle Careers for Adventure Seekers
Life is pretty great when you’re on two wheels. For many, the time spent on a motorcycle is when we’re happiest and most at peace, but unfortunately, it often feels like there’s never enough time. What if there was a way to spend more time with bikes? The good news is there is a way– and you can get paid while doing it. Exploring careers that involve motorcycles or riding can give you the opportunity to make your dreams come true. To help, we’ve outlined 6 careers for the adventurer in you and tips for success.
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1. Professional Racer
Are you fast on two wheels? If you’re consistently quick and thrive under pressure, you may have what it takes to become a pro racer. But remember, only a small number of racers actually earn enough to turn riding into a full-time career. However, if you’re among the best, opportunities like Moto GP or endorsements could earn you millions.
How do you get there? Start young, and decide the type what type of bike you need, whether using sportbikes for road racing or dirt bikes for off-road competitions. If you already have the basics down, sharpen your skills through racing schools, track days and even local amateur MX motorcycle races. It’s also a great idea to support local motorcycle racers, which could potentially provide learning and mentorship opportunities. These actions will help you build confidence and rise through the ranks– the sky’s the limit.
2.Police Officer
Riding to serve and protect can be a noble gig. As a motorcycle police officer, you’ll help keep the roads and highways safe by enforcing traffic laws, pursuing suspects, and responding to accidents—not to mention escorting the occasional dignitary. The bottom line is you’d get paid to spend a lot of time riding.
How do you get there? The first step requires entering the police academy. Like any specialized unit, motorcycle police units are made up of experienced officers who’ve proven themselves in other areas of the field, and perhaps have shown an aptitude for traffic enforcement. The advanced rider training alone is intense, requiring up to three weeks of coursework, including learning low-speed maneuvers on heavy police motorcycles.
3. Stunt Rider
If you’re confident and brave on two wheels and have the riding skills to execute exciting moves precisely and consistently, you might have what it takes to be a professional stunt rider. Maybe you could see yourself on the silver screen involved in some wild motorcycle chases—or crashes. If you want to determine whether this is the path for you, try researching famous motorcycle stunts and the motorcycles used. This can give you a general idea of what the career has to offer.
How do you get there? This one is tricky to get into. It requires extensive practice, physical conditioning, and specialized training—not just in riding but also in how to crash safely. There are training institutions that can help, but many professionals land their first jobs through personal or family connections in the industry. Joining the actor’s union and working as an extra can help increase your chances of securing your big break.
4. Work for a manufacturer
Maybe you love bikes, but you’re not so keen on the risks involved with aforementioned careers. No problem—most riders aren’t! Working for a company that designs and manufactures motorcycles offers several avenues to pursue your dream job, from the engineering and designing to the marketing teams who advertise motorcycles.
How do you get there? These roles typically require a college or university education in mechanical or electrical engineering, industrial design, business, or marketing. Many manufacturers offer internships for those just starting their careers, helping them further hone their skills and build valuable connections.
Companies like Harley-Davidson, Indian and Zero all produce motorcycles in America and have several jobs in their state-of-the-art facilities for those looking for a hands-on job, Plus, there are dozens of smaller, boutique-shop motorcycle producers that may also offer opportunities.
5. Work at a Dealership
Depending on your talents and skills, dealerships offer various motorcycle-related career opportunities. Those who prefer hands-on work might consider becoming a technician, while those with a knack for numbers may be well-suited for a role in the finance department. If you enjoy working with people, a career in sales could be rewarding, helping riders find the right bike for them.
How do you get there? Technicians are required to have a high school diploma or GED, complete a motorcycle mechanic program at a trade or technical school, and may need an apprenticeship or state-required licensing. For roles in finance, college or university degree is typically required. Sales positions may not have specific educational requirements, but being personable and knowledgeable is key. Consider setting up a meeting with a dealership’s sales manager to learn what they’re looking for in potential hires.
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6.Motorcycle Journalist
A motorcycle reviewer or journalist may have the opportunity to travel the world, experience the latest motorcycles from various manufacturers, and ride on some of the best roads and racetracks.
How do you get there? Passionate riders who can objectively evaluate motorcycles and communicate their findings in an informative and engaging way may have what it takes to become a motorcycle journalist. Earning a degree from an accredited journalism program at a college or university can provide essential skills, but being personable, well-spoken, and having photography or videography skills can also give an edge over other aspiring motorcycle journalists.
Ultimately, if a career that involves motorcycles is your dream, polish up that resumé, or start applying to educational programs to help make your dream a reality. If you need a little cash in the meantime, you could always try your hand at being a motorcycle delivery person.
Anna Cecilia Tozzi