Jason Dunne and Allan Kelly run a motorcycle repair workshop in Tullamore and with the forthcoming introduction of an MOT for bikes in Ireland they recognised the value of this qualification to their business. Jason Dunne said: “It’s important to demonstrate that we not only have the experience but that we are fully qualified in the latest vehicle technology and diagnostic techniques. To date this course is not available nearer to home.”
The workshop is fully equipped with all tools needed for a complete range of procedures from fitting work to complex mechanical and electronic diagnostics. Supported by Bosh industries equipment includes code readers, oscilloscopes and electronic hardware.
Students working in the motorcycle industry locally include Alan Martin on work experience with Yamaha at Charles Hurst Belfast, Adrian Larkin from SERC, is apprenticed to Crosson Motorcycles Mayobridge, Newry the Aprilla main dealer and Chris Stirling is apprenticed to Millsport Motorcycles Ballymoney the Ducati main dealer.
Qualified welder Dominic McCord from Cookstown, has had a life long interest in motorbikes and trikes in particular and the course helps extend his knowledge.
Biking enthusiasts Paul Gibson from Antrim currently employed at Belfast International Airport and Sean Brennan from Ballymoney who runs a workshop from home are hoping the course will increase their skills and open up additional opportunities for them.
The workshop Course tutor Frank McClarey has 27 years in the motorcycle trade and has trained many maintenance and workshop managers. He welcomed the breadth of experience across the student group and said: “Students benefit from each other’s skills levels and are encouraged to share knowledge across the group. It’s a very practical class and at Farm Lodge we have a high turnover of motorcycles from basic scooters to sportsbikes which we return fit for use. We encourage students to bring their own projects to college to build their evidence portfolio. Students enrolling on the course have come on board following good reviews from past students in the motorcycle fraternity and we greatly value this word of mouth recommendation.”
An integral part of the course this year is a ‘Riders for Health’ charity project in which students prepare a Honda 90 for use by a doctor or nurse to reach patients in the African desert.
The Institute of the Motor Industry courses take place on one day a week from September to June and among the guest lecturers was Clarence Bell from PLR Suspension who are specialists in racing suspension servicing, set up and tuning. He demonstrated front and rear service procedures on Ohlins and rear shock absorbers including a full strip and rebuild.
For information on Motorcycle courses at NRC please contact the Ballymena Campus on 028 2565 2871 or email info@nrc.ac.uk
