Motorcycle shops in Madison, WI

Before you book in Madison, WI

A few things riders around here ask before handing over a bike. None of it is specific to one shop above.

What to ask a shop

• Do you work on my make and year? A shop that mostly sees late-model Japanese bikes may not want a 1978 twin, and it is better to hear that on the phone than at the counter.
• Will you mount tires I bring in, and what does that cost? Many shops will, some will not, and the ones that do usually charge more per tire than for rubber they sold you.
• What is the diagnostic fee, and does it come off the repair if I go ahead? Ask before the bike is on the lift.
• Appointment or walk-in, and what is the turnaround right now? In season a good shop can be two or three weeks out.
• Can you collect a bike that will not run, or do I need to arrange a tow? Some service shops have a trailer; most do not.

What to ask a tow operator before they load it

• Do you carry motorcycle-rated straps or a wheel chock, and how will you secure the bike? Soft loops through the triple clamp or frame, never around the bars or a fairing.
• Flatbed or wheel-lift? A motorcycle needs a flatbed, or a purpose-built cradle. A wheel-lift built for cars is the wrong tool.
• Will you take a bike that will not roll, for example with a seized rear wheel or a bent fork?
• What is your service radius, and is the price by the mile or a flat call-out? Ask for the number before you give the address.

Seasonal note

Riding season here has a hard stop. Before the bike sits, fill the tank and add stabilizer, put the battery on a tender, and get the ethanol out of the carbs if it has them. The spring rush at every shop starts the first warm weekend, so book the pre-season service in late winter, not April.

Helmet and inspection rules

Helmet and inspection rules differ by state and they change. Do not take a forum post's word for it; check the current table before you ride Madison, WI out across a state line. Motorcycle helmet laws by state (IIHS).