Small motorcycle repair workshop

Local riders, motorcycle clubs, couriers and delivery riders, and sometimes dealers who need overflow work.

Labour charged by the hour or by flat-rate job, plus a margin on parts, tires and accessories. Winter storage can add income in colder regions.

• Motorcycle mechanical knowledge
• Quoting and managing parts orders
• Customer service and bookkeeping basics

• Zoning, landlord and environmental rules for vehicle repair premises, check with your municipality
• Commercial general liability and garage keepers insurance, plus property cover for tools
• Provincial technician certification and consumer protection rules for repair shops (written estimates, return of replaced parts)
• Proper handling and disposal of oil, coolant, tires and batteries
• WCB/WSIB coverage if you hire a mechanic, and a slow winter in many regions

Estimates suggest startup costs typically run around $20,000 to $80,000, depending on the unit's rent and deposit, a bike lift, tools and storage. Get quotes on equipment and lease terms to firm up your own number.

Estimated monthly revenue is typically around $4,000 to $20,000, depending on your niche, pricing and how many bikes you service. The estimate assumes at least 35 hours a week. Many regions have a slow winter, so plan cash flow.

Check zoning, landlord and environmental rules for vehicle repair premises with your municipality. Also check provincial technician certification and consumer protection rules such as written estimates, garage keepers insurance, disposal of oil, coolant, tires and batteries, and WCB or WSIB if you hire.