Mobile motorcycle mechanic

Commuter riders, weekend riders and owners who cannot easily get a bike to a shop, plus small groups like riding clubs.

A flat price for common services plus an hourly labor rate for repairs, with parts sold at a markup. A call-out fee can cover travel.

• Motorcycle mechanical knowledge
• Diagnosing faults
• Customer communication
• Scheduling and route planning

• General liability insurance, ideally with coverage for customers' vehicles in your care (check garage keepers or similar cover)
• Check whether your city or county requires a business license or limits repair work on residential streets
• Rules on disposing of used oil, fluids and tires differ by state, check local requirements
• Some states regulate auto repair businesses, check your state's rules
• Bad weather and limited space mean some jobs will need to be turned down

Startup costs are typically estimated at around $5,000 to $25,000, depending on whether you use a van or enclosed trailer, your tools and equipment, and insurance. Price your own setup to refine this estimate.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $2,000 to $8,000, depending on how many jobs you take, your rates and your service area. Weather and limited space may mean turning down some jobs, which can affect income.

Check whether your city or county requires a business license or limits repair work on residential streets, and whether your state regulates auto repair businesses. Also check local rules on disposing of used oil, fluids and tires, and insurance covering customers' vehicles in your care.