Motorcycle Repair: Tune up and valves, haynes manuals, better business bureau

Question
Hi,
I bought a 83 wing and it needs a tune and a valve adj. What is a reasonable cost for this kind of work? Is an independent as good as the dealer?
Thanks,
John

Answer
Hi John,

Flat rates for motorcycle service in my area is about $50 per hour.

A tune up may cost about $250.

Independants are some of the finest techs. Independants may be over-qualified for a dealer (earn more on their own),  under-qualified (lack training/skills) and cannot maintain dealer employment, or have other professional titles and do MC repair as a hobby.

I encourage and recommend buying a Service Manual and perform repairs yourself. You get what you pay for. Buy the factory manual or next best, Clymer. Avoid Haynes manuals for lack of clarity.

I've witnessed dealership staff do customers good and bad. It's definitely a buyer beware market. Ask for referrals and check with the Better Business Bureau on-line for customer complaints filed against dealerships.

Ask the tech a tech question: What is deck height?

Answer: The Piston Deck Height is the distance the piston EDGE is in relation to the top of the cylinder deck. If you get a reply relating to his new wooden deck, etc... thank him for his time.

Respectfully,
Mark Shively