After many decades of wrenching, I watched one of your videos and finally decided to go back to school to get certified to become a Harley-Davidson Technician! It was the best decision I ever made and I had so much fun there and made a lot of great friends too!
There is a reason your channel and Blocks have grown so quickly. It's because you both put our solid, quality content. The market will always make room for that. Love what your doing.
I am starting school this fall at age 47. Going into manufacturing. It's never too late to shoot for your dreams. Thanks for these videos. Your audio sounds much better.👍
I'm attending MMI in Phoenix. Love it. Finishing YamaPro (3 more weeks) then onto Harley. Definitely looking forward to it. I completely agree with the "can't-ers". If you really want to do something, set that goal, give it a date, and get to work. Life is gonna hit ya hard but where there's a will there's a way
I have a chip from the Space Coast shop. Great videos, I past on going to MMI on 97. Always regretted it. I let those you can't do it people get to me.
Yes! Please talk as much as you can about MMI. Did you only do Harley? Were you offered a deal on tools? Was it easy to start working afterwards? Not like find a job exactly but keep up with other people at your new job. Is the money worth the work? any benefits? like cheaper parts or tools? any flipping bikes on the side? Im sure i can find more questions but Im just gonna stop there. I Love the videos man. Keep it up. Ive considered MMI for like 8 years and keep letting myself be talked out of it because "that job doesnt make any money". anyways.. Have a goodn brother.
You all probably dont give a shit but does anyone know of a way to log back into an instagram account..? I was dumb forgot my account password. I would love any assistance you can give me!
@Chaim Esteban thanks so much for your reply. I found the site on google and I'm in the hacking process atm. I see it takes a while so I will get back to you later when my account password hopefully is recovered.
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I’ll soon be starting MMI after I get my GED. I can’t wait. I’ve been a hard worker in lumber mills and a pipe fitter but now it’s time to do something that has a good future for myself rather than someone else. Thanks for the good information sir. Have a great day
I’m not a Harley owner, but you the best. Your stories, tips, and work with the other Tube folks just shows what a great man you are keep up the good work. Wannabe in Plano
Here’s a tip for all, most of those new gas pumps with the annoying TV screen have a mute button. It’s usually the third button from the bottom on the right side of the screen.
John......my wife used to manage for Fridays in Los Angeles and Missouri. I used to host bar champs at her stores for years and would even mix the music for the bartenders. Looks like you had some great skills! Love the videos....entertaining and chock full of info!!
i think the sound is fine, done expect it to be as perfect as a hollywood movie. you and the other guys make great vids and at the age of 64 have just bought my first Harley, 2018 sport glide. been riding since 1972. keep up the good work
you can make it in 2018 on youtube if you're a genuine person, have useful content, and convey said content in an interesting way. as a harley owner, this is one of my favorite new-ish channels. i'll keep watching your videos if you keep making videos. thanks, man.
okay for the record I am not here for Harleys, I ride an R1200GSW and before that a VTX1800, I like the downhome personal touch and your funny stories. Cheers.
John i must admit i never really watched you tube other than music video's much but i watched a few of your video's. now i not only watch your video's for content but they are very entertaining and can't wait for the next one. Keep up the good work
Greetings, I may be the only one not here for the Harleys, I actually found your channel while searching for Motorcycle Mechanic Schools, and eventually MMI. I ended up subscribing for your quality content and the way you enjoy your job as a mechanic. I just turned 22, and after completing High School and working for a couple of years, I found myself feeling like I'm wasting my life on Restaurant jobs, just because the pay is higher than the average. Now I actually enrolled in an European MMI equivalent school, now I'm just eager to be accepted (they take less than 20 students at a time). Keep up with the good work, with both motorcycles and the channel. Cheers from Portugal!
See John your a honest straight up dude,, your not trying to be someone your not.. and to other people like you that means a lot ,, your a good dude keep being you ...
Boom mic provides atmosphere. Background noise is more life like. It pulls the viewer into your location. As you stated the lapel mic provides better voice audio as you turn your back to the camera. The lapel is therefore probably better for instructional videos and the boom mic better for general chat and atmosphere. Great job. But don't get too carried away with the 'Days of our lives' stuff.
First I’d like to congratulate you on the new coffee grinder. And for the Zoom audio, seems to be working good although I believe the shirt mic sounds muffled at some points. I’ve been contemplating MMI for a few months now but I’m not a youngster anymore. I’d love to change professions but it’s a scary move for someone over 45. I’ve been wanting to ask you why you aren’t on Patreon yet so here’s hoping that Blockhesd and the other vloggers have already brought that to your attention. I’m sure there are quite a few people out there that would like to support you and help you continue making videos.
been watching your videos for a while now, I live in the UK and wanted to leave a message to say thanks for the videos. Its like having a virtual buddy chatting to us. I think your video's are so helpful in regards to so many subjects not just about the Harley tech stuff but also talking about real world life experiences and how you handled them and to be positive in what you want to achieve in life. I can relate to your story about changing career and relocating to another state (or county for us limey's). I would back you 100% in believing in yourself and what you can achieve, I'm the same as any other guy wanting to get the best for my family and to enjoy what I do in life. So if your thinking about doing something go for it. You might live to regret not doing it, but there is no reason why you cannot succeed you just sometimes have to fight for it...OK I will shut the hell up now. Happy 4th July from this limey!! all the best John and Family..and the rest of the you tubes watching :0) Peace out..
Great video this week. The lapel does clean the audio up nicely but I think for what you are doing the background noise gives us a nice authentic feel where as the lapel is more cinema sounding! Dirty Thumbs Up from the Dallas area.
Yea, my dad wanted to buy a harley franchise but I knew nothing about wrenching and that was priority to me in case I had workers who called out. I enrolled at MMI in Arizona. My wife whose brokerage operations job moved to pittsburg, left , and came with me with our 5 year old son, we drove to Az. We drove for 14 hour days to make it there in time leaving Pa. in January where we hit an ice storm on pa. turnpike. We had a 83 delta Royale oldsmobile. Bigger than some suvs nowadays. First apt complex I had reservations was in a bad neighborhood, so that was out. Spent a week in a hotel till we found another apt complex. Started school and went as far as working on flatheads,panheads and knuckles. I knew owners of these bikes would not be coming to dealers so I asked to go to high performance class which I was denied cause you had to go through each class. We left the school since I wasn't satisfied . Also they didn't have enough equipment so we had to team up. My test avg was 86%. I suffered with my hands and made several mistakes which teachers took off points from my grades but I passed everything. After leaving in 1993, found out harley was buying out franchises that didn't convert their franchises to boutiques. The older generation raised the prices cause t hey bought bikes like crazy forcing customers to get on a list for a year. That pushed me away from purchasing. I got a refund from the school and handed to my dad who gave me the money. He never talked to me after that about buying a franchise . You had to buy one that was for sale thus relocating and my wife was too close to her family. I already had a job waiting for me when we got home. Good exprrience, saw the grand Canyon . I was more intimated by others who had a lot of experience already working at dealerships. Later harley got ahead of itself and increased its inventory that they couldn't get rid of slashing prices. But now there is no generation that took our place buying bikes. Technology took over, millenials started living in inner cities where motorcycles weren't needed. I'm 67 and just purchased an 09 flstc.
This video just came on my recommended. I was going to do MMI when I got out of the military, but did something different... hindsight 🤷🏻♂️. But my son is a junior in HS and has his mind set on MMI. I'm really excited for him and will be looking up your video about it. Love the new mic
Hey john really enjoy the videos the lappel mic is a little dry needs some eq but my question about school is did you do the full course or just the harley one
John, good video. Congratulations on 50,000 Subscribers. The Mics both sound great. Interesting I found both Bike N Bird and Blockhead’s Channel from this one.
Hi John from down under just got my first Harley electra glide and i love it also ride a fireblade and motocross 2 and 4 stroke love the channel i have learned more about harley in 3 weeks and i have you to thank so thanks john keep it going if you all head down here yell out ,all the best from Sydney Australia.
I love the videos and definitely want to here more about your time at mmi after coming to Phoenix mmi i wish i would've choose Orlando but im just glad im actually doing something i never thought i would. Missing home and family but i know it will be worth it in the end
Hey John, you and I had similar experience in going to mmi. Working for Orlando HD while in school and still being techs 10 years after school I would be more than happy to share my experience giving up a $50k a year job for the life. Moving across country twice. Love the channel.
Keep up the great work, you been fun, insightful, honest and I'm gonna keep watching! In fact the little lady and I just picked up our 2nd Harley last Saturday. Now the 48 anniversary has a 2018 fat bob to chase down...lol
I'm in the process of saving money right now to go to school out in arizona. I'm from northern New York, is there anything I can do now to better ready myself for my trip out? And your videos have helped me out a lot. You've been able to answer questions I have before I even have them. Thanks man
Ayyy! Double dose of thumb. I started my morning with Blockhead's video of you. As for audio - Try a 90/10 split between the lav and the boom. That way you'll still get some of the "life" around you. The lav alone can end up sounding detached, almost like you're overdubbing in post.
Awesome. One thing I wish I had done years ago, was do a Motorcycle mechanic/Technician course. Love working on my bikes and helping out where I can with others also. Your very informative in all regards to everything HD. Keep up the brilliant feeds. 🎩👍🏼
Thanks for sharing your thoughts John. I've been watching you and Block from the get go (subscribed when you were in the 100s) and you two are a HUGE part of the reason I own a Harley now. As far as the nic goes, the lap mic is a little duller than the camera, but as long as you use only it in a video, no one will know the difference. Keep up the good work sir!
Loved the lapel mic... it's a definite improvement. John, I'm a 58 year old that has been disabled for work since 2009 when my diabetes took a turn for the worse. Won't bore you with stupid details... but I'm fighting disability court and have not made a dime since August of 09. I'm sick of sitting at home on my broke ass... the wife is barely making ends meet and she needs some help. My condition prevents me from holding down a regular job as I would not be reliable by my old performance standards, I can't do what I used to do in other words. I was freaking superman... did everything and slept 4 to 6 hours a night and did it again. Now I'm old and broke down and need an income ... any ideas? I'm about out of time and really want a Harley before I buy the farm. Thanks for your ideas. In a RUT in Oklahoma.
That’s tough! Diabetes is a rough one, and I’m sorry to hear it’s been extra hard on you the last few years. You can do a lot on the Internet to make money these days. A ton of info right here on YT!
John, great video. You’ve got a very honest approach to your presentations, keep’em coming. The audio was coming in great on my end. Thanks for all your informative conversation efforts much appreciated. Hope you had a terrific vacation. ;D. -Jim
Awesome videos bro, im getting ready to start that journey at the Arizona campus pretty soon, i plan on taking every HD class that they have to offer but my question is when applying at Harley Davidson as a tech is there any other classes that would be beneficial to have on my resume whether it be taking classes for other makes of bikes or classes the school doesn’t offer like welding or OSHA courses. Ive done some research and heard that job security as a HD tech is pretty rough and want to get ahead of the game as much as possible. Thanks.
John, I retire in about a year and a half at the ripe old age of 52 and I'm wanting to go to motorcycle mechanic school. Have a huge passion for HD and riding. And enjoy the hell out of wrenching on a bike. I've tackled many repairs, upgrades such as a cam swap, clutch plates etc and find a huge pleasure doing it. What school do you recommend? What are the costs? What tips would you suggest as far as getting through school etc? I live in the Tampa/Clearwater area. Would love to hear back from ya.
Your videos are amazing John Maxwell. I am actually starting school on August 20th. I am having trouble finding apartment. The housing that you mentioned in this video, would you be comfortable in disclosing the rental company?
I’m from Northwest Arkansas and going to leave my family this July for the HD program. I don’t even own a bike yet and never have. I’m 29 and got tired of dreaming. GI Bill helps but I’m gonna be staying in their dorms. Any idea how the dorms are in Orlando?
I'm 51, retired and just got my 100% not too long ago. Looking to get Chapter 31 for MMI. Honestly not looking to go back to the grind, but this has been something I've always wanted to do. Hopefully learn to maintain my own bike and get some side gigs, maybe its something I can share and pass on to my kids. Been watching your videos and I'm wondering, is it worth it and should I go for it??
The lav mic cuts out a ton of background noise, but sounds muffled. Are you running the recordings through any kind of audio mixer during post production? If so, try equalizing out anything below 60 htz. That should take the muffled sound out.
Shirt Mic for the win. I went to uti in Houston when I was 18 didn’t have support system. So advise I would give to the new school people is have back up plans and a plan after that and try to build a support system like you have. Thanks for the videos
Biggest lesson after MMI, the school will restrict you to their little box, in every way and program you to think anything else is wrong. But in real life, if you’re stuck in that box you’re just another dealership parts changer who can’t think outside the box and dismisses everything else is wrong. However some techs (the ones you want to make friends with) are very knowledgeable and experienced. Now I can’t speak for all dealerships but as a customer and a professional, in my experience, every dealership I’ve been to is only in it for the money, not the bike or the customers interest, infested with overly pushy sales guys and 90% of the techs are like highly trained auto parts employees while only 10% really get it. And I’ve experienced a lot of animosity towards Indy shops and Indy techs. Which exist because of people who are sick of dealership shit. Now I’m not trying to knock anyone. It’s more a matter of the person holding the wrench than where they work. But The point I’m getting at it I was very shocked as I got deeper into the industry and saw how much incompetence and animosity exists. And it was very eye opening to experience everything from MMI, to a Harley dealership as an employee, to a metric dealership as an employee to an indy shop that went horribly wrong because I got fucked over by a POS who got into meth and literally left the shop with $0 in the bank. To now a successful small Indy shop in central florida. Again not knocking anyone or where they choose to work. It was just very eye opening to see what the industry is actually like. Compared to the fancy MMI videos and their fancy presentations and all the preconceived notions that were made to believe. Sorry for a long comment. Just trying to share my experience and opinion as a professional and a rider. Love the channel. And the content. Glad to see guys under the bar and shield putting out quality info.
Boom has better quality, even if higher background pickup. As many have stated, the lapel seems 'muddy'. But better background rejection. Maybe play with EQ. Interesting vid, as usual. Dirty thumb up!
@John I was an instant subscriber just from watching one video. You rock man. Your vibe is so chill 🤟😎. I would love an honest true answer from you about the school, I'm getting dead serious about going to the Phoenix campus Because I live in cali, I love all bikes but I'm specifically in love with the sport bike world. Mainly because it's the only part of the bike industry I've gotten the most experience riding, I'm coming into this with literally nothing in my pocket I'm unemployed at $500 a month and it all goes every paycheck, I have a little less than a year experience at Malcolm Smith Motorsports in Riverside Cali as a service shop porter but all I did was jump oil that was changed, moved and washed bikes, and kept things organized around the shop but no actual mechanic experience while I worked there although I got to watch it everyday. I have about 2 years experience at Sam's club tire shop and that's basically all my experience in the automotive industry. I went to Riverside community college automotive program for car and truck and I never finished because of relationship control and bad influence from women that didn't care about me. I started out tinkering on everything I could afford from Chinese pocket bikes to go peds to electric scooters to stand up gas scooters to mini bikes and Yamaha PW50 dirt bikes to my first big bike that was a 77 Kawasaki KZ1000 and then two kawi ninja 250s. The only other bikes I've ridden in my life was a Kawasaki versus 650, a 2012 ZX6, and a Harley fat boy with the twin headlight. I'm single now unemployed and living at my mom's house instead of on the street. I'm assuming if I make this jump I'll be living in my van until I can afford a place out there near the school. This is a really scary life-changing choice I'm making. Willingly taking myself out of my comfort zone at my mom's house and going back on the street in the same van I was living in before my last relationship ended from her cheating. I want to improve my life for myself to be independent and to be able to provide for my 6-year-old son. Am I making the right choice? I can tinker just about anything but when it comes to specs and electrical I am completely and utterly lost along with remembering all the socket sizes and the difference between standard and metric. Unfortunately I never focused on learning those details. is this a Pandora's box that I'm about to open of failure or do you think my ADD bike loving butt would find focus without the distraction of a girlfriend LOL? thank you greatly for reading all this and I sincerely look forward to your response! 🏍️🛵🤟😎
you got that close to the school and didn't go back and visit? I was there in 09 and was really hoping you'd show at least some of the school just for memories sake.
Hi John, thanks for another cool video. I look forward to seeing the bell notification when you post new stuff. I thought about going to MMI after I retire from the military. I have always loved riding and doing little things to my bike. TH-cam is a great teaching tool to help do some things to the bike but I would love to go to school and gain more knowledge. I guess my question is how hard was it to get enrolled and what is the cost for a school like MMI? I would use the GI Bill but I'm sure there would be other costs as well. Thanks for all the great content, and I look forward watching your next video.
Brother it sounds great I’m sure it’ll make filming at work much easier! Just got my 14” Factory 47 bars in for my 17 FLHRXS can’t wait to install them tomorrow after work! Cool video of your bartender days!
yo John, have you ever seen a no rsp code from the icm option on the speedo with the run button turned on? mines doing that, i unplugged it and cleaned it, gave it some dielectric grease and no love.
yeah(i think anyway), it cranks with the run switch on but not with it off. weird right? sometimes it'll try really hard to run and fire off a bit but thats pretty rare and won't idle at all. i feel like the icm is on it's last few hairs of life. i'm going to have to bring it to the dealer to be sure but i wanted to double check before i had it towed away. previous to this it was running like a top. carb is clean, jets clear, accelerator pump working etc
I just started at MMI-ORLANDO. I actually enjoyed Theory l, ll. Now I'm going to moto1. My question to you is Did you know anything about motorcycles when you started. I am new to it all. And my thoughts are will i be ready when I'm done school.
I didn't know anything more than the model names when I started. Keep up with the studying, and pay attention. You'll be ok. They're giving you more than you need to be a qualified entry level tech. You don't graduate as a master, so don't try to be one. You never quit learning in this field!
Current student. Love the content. We talk a Lot about what tools you will and won't need. Would you give a run down of an overall picture to the ideal tools for everyday that you will need outside of the basics. Thank you keep you the channel.
Thanks for another awesome vid, liking the new mic, sounds good. Also special thanks to Mrs. Maxwell for the sweet footage!! Does she ever get upset with all of the time you put into the channel? I can imagine it has to be time consuming, maybe you could do a video about making one of your videos?? Cheers John!!
Got a school question for you. I'm looking to start at the Phoenix campus in the spring of next year in the Harley program; is there anything you recommend to a prospective student? Thanks
Thanks again for the advise and the video! What was the cost of the school? Did you get tools upon graduating?? What advise would you give to someone thinking about going? Thanks again! Hope your vacation was awesome!
After many decades of wrenching, I watched one of your videos and finally decided to go back to school to get certified to become a Harley-Davidson Technician! It was the best decision I ever made and I had so much fun there and made a lot of great friends too!
There is a reason your channel and Blocks have grown so quickly. It's because you both put our solid, quality content. The market will always make room for that. Love what your doing.
word! P.N.W. suporters! See you oot 'na'bout lol. I can see Canada from my house..lol
I am starting school this fall at age 47. Going into manufacturing. It's never too late to shoot for your dreams. Thanks for these videos. Your audio sounds much better.👍
Mike Likes Knives that’s awesome.
At 48 I’d love to do a course on Motorcycle mechanics, specifically for and in HD mc
Well done to you.
Thank you for the kind words. I hope you are able to find a class you are looking for. Then just go for it!👍
Mike Likes Knives cheers Bro 🎩👍🏼
I'm 47 as well and looking at starting the HD tech course this fall in Canada, never too late to follow your dreams
hope your experience was well :D im starting mmi in just a few months
Hi, John in 2001 I graduated fom MMI, seems they still doing a great job as a school nowdays! Congratulations keep it up!👍
I'm attending MMI in Phoenix. Love it. Finishing YamaPro (3 more weeks) then onto Harley. Definitely looking forward to it.
I completely agree with the "can't-ers". If you really want to do something, set that goal, give it a date, and get to work. Life is gonna hit ya hard but where there's a will there's a way
I have a chip from the Space Coast shop. Great videos, I past on going to MMI on 97. Always regretted it. I let those you can't do it people get to me.
I used to live in thomaston, rode all around the macon area , brings back so many good memories seeing all those farm roads and pecan trees
Yes! Please talk as much as you can about MMI. Did you only do Harley? Were you offered a deal on tools? Was it easy to start working afterwards? Not like find a job exactly but keep up with other people at your new job. Is the money worth the work? any benefits? like cheaper parts or tools? any flipping bikes on the side? Im sure i can find more questions but Im just gonna stop there.
I Love the videos man. Keep it up. Ive considered MMI for like 8 years and keep letting myself be talked out of it because "that job doesnt make any money". anyways.. Have a goodn brother.
Respek bruv. I’ll help you unload the van... that Yeti might go missing though 😁
There will still be ice in it!
What he said! Lol
You all probably dont give a shit but does anyone know of a way to log back into an instagram account..?
I was dumb forgot my account password. I would love any assistance you can give me!
@Kamden Jimmy instablaster :)
@Chaim Esteban thanks so much for your reply. I found the site on google and I'm in the hacking process atm.
I see it takes a while so I will get back to you later when my account password hopefully is recovered.
I’ll soon be starting MMI after I get my GED.
I can’t wait. I’ve been a hard worker in lumber mills and a pipe fitter but now it’s time to do something that has a good future for myself rather than someone else. Thanks for the good information sir. Have a great day
I’m not a Harley owner, but you the best. Your stories, tips, and work with the other Tube folks just shows what a great man you are keep up the good work.
Wannabe in Plano
Here’s a tip for all, most of those new gas pumps with the annoying TV screen have a mute button. It’s usually the third button from the bottom on the right side of the screen.
I'm at MMI right now. Graduating next week!
John......my wife used to manage for Fridays in Los Angeles and Missouri. I used to host bar champs at her stores for years and would even mix the music for the bartenders. Looks like you had some great skills! Love the videos....entertaining and chock full of info!!
i think the sound is fine, done expect it to be as perfect as a hollywood movie. you and the other guys make great vids and at the age of 64 have just bought my first Harley, 2018 sport glide. been riding since 1972. keep up the good work
you can make it in 2018 on youtube if you're a genuine person, have useful content, and convey said content in an interesting way. as a harley owner, this is one of my favorite new-ish channels. i'll keep watching your videos if you keep making videos. thanks, man.
I start MMI in Phoenix this month! Gotta start at some point, in my 30's isn't too bad!
We are incredibly thankful for you John. It's fun just learning and seeing you being creative.
okay for the record I am not here for Harleys, I ride an R1200GSW and before that a VTX1800, I like the downhome personal touch and your funny stories. Cheers.
Good to know! Thanks for watching it! I know not everyone rides HD, which is cool. It’s also why I don’t want every video to be an in the shop vid!
John i must admit i never really watched you tube other than music video's much but i watched a few of your video's. now i not only watch your video's for content but they are very entertaining and can't wait for the next one. Keep up the good work
video and sound where spot on john keep them coming
Greetings, I may be the only one not here for the Harleys, I actually found your channel while searching for Motorcycle Mechanic Schools, and eventually MMI. I ended up subscribing for your quality content and the way you enjoy your job as a mechanic.
I just turned 22, and after completing High School and working for a couple of years, I found myself feeling like I'm wasting my life on Restaurant jobs, just because the pay is higher than the average. Now I actually enrolled in an European MMI equivalent school, now I'm just eager to be accepted (they take less than 20 students at a time).
Keep up with the good work, with both motorcycles and the channel.
Cheers from Portugal!
I know how you fell on the restaurant jobs
See John your a honest straight up dude,, your not trying to be someone your not.. and to other people like you that means a lot ,, your a good dude keep being you ...
Thanks man, I appreciate that.
New mic sounds great and congratulations on 50k... Hell Yeah from Texas
Both sound good, prefer the lapel over the boom mic.
Boom mic provides atmosphere. Background noise is more life like. It pulls the viewer into your location. As you stated the lapel mic provides better voice audio as you turn your back to the camera. The lapel is therefore probably better for instructional videos and the boom mic better for general chat and atmosphere. Great job. But don't get too carried away with the 'Days of our lives' stuff.
First I’d like to congratulate you on the new coffee grinder.
And for the Zoom audio, seems to be working good although I believe the shirt mic sounds muffled at some points.
I’ve been contemplating MMI for a few months now but I’m not a youngster anymore. I’d love to change professions but it’s a scary move for someone over 45.
I’ve been wanting to ask you why you aren’t on Patreon yet so here’s hoping that Blockhesd and the other vloggers have already brought that to your attention. I’m sure there are quite a few people out there that would like to support you and help you continue making videos.
New audio setup works really well man. Especially helpful if you’re shooting while you’re working on a bike. Keep it up man. Love this channel 👍🏼
been watching your videos for a while now, I live in the UK and wanted to leave a message to say thanks for the videos. Its like having a virtual buddy chatting to us. I think your video's are so helpful in regards to so many subjects not just about the Harley tech stuff but also talking about real world life experiences and how you handled them and to be positive in what you want to achieve in life. I can relate to your story about changing career and relocating to another state (or county for us limey's). I would back you 100% in believing in yourself and what you can achieve, I'm the same as any other guy wanting to get the best for my family and to enjoy what I do in life. So if your thinking about doing something go for it. You might live to regret not doing it, but there is no reason why you cannot succeed you just sometimes have to fight for it...OK I will shut the hell up now. Happy 4th July from this limey!! all the best John and Family..and the rest of the you tubes watching :0) Peace out..
Thanks so much for the comment! Glad you’re enjoying the content!
Great video this week. The lapel does clean the audio up nicely but I think for what you are doing the background noise gives us a nice authentic feel where as the lapel is more cinema sounding! Dirty Thumbs Up from the Dallas area.
lapel mic sounds great at distance and also for cutting out unwanted ambient sounds
Keep it HARLEY ! Whatever you do! Leave the drama out. Great job! Whether it’s school or tech work! You will progress on and on my brother!,
On a side note...... It's pretty cool that your dealership lets you take vaca during busy season.
For sure!
thanks for the videos man. i start MMI in Phoenix september 10 and moving there august 1 cant wait.
Good call on the early move! I liked doing it that way.
I love what your doing! I look forward to your videos every week.
Yea, my dad wanted to buy a harley franchise but I knew nothing about wrenching and that was priority to me in case I had workers who called out. I enrolled at MMI in Arizona. My wife whose brokerage operations job moved to pittsburg, left , and came with me with our 5 year old son, we drove to Az. We drove for 14 hour days to make it there in time leaving Pa. in January where we hit an ice storm on pa. turnpike. We had a 83 delta Royale oldsmobile. Bigger than some suvs nowadays. First apt complex I had reservations was in a bad neighborhood, so that was out. Spent a week in a hotel till we found another apt complex. Started school and went as far as working on flatheads,panheads and knuckles. I knew owners of these bikes would not be coming to dealers so I asked to go to high performance class which I was denied cause you had to go through each class. We left the school since I wasn't satisfied . Also they didn't have enough equipment so we had to team up. My test avg was 86%. I suffered with my hands and made several mistakes which teachers took off points from my grades but I passed everything. After leaving in 1993, found out harley was buying out franchises that didn't convert their franchises to boutiques. The older generation raised the prices cause t hey bought bikes like crazy forcing customers to get on a list for a year. That pushed me away from purchasing. I got a refund from the school and handed to my dad who gave me the money. He never talked to me after that about buying a franchise . You had to buy one that was for sale thus relocating and my wife was too close to her family. I already had a job waiting for me when we got home. Good exprrience, saw the grand Canyon . I was more intimated by others who had a lot of experience already working at dealerships. Later harley got ahead of itself and increased its inventory that they couldn't get rid of slashing prices. But now there is no generation that took our place buying bikes. Technology took over, millenials started living in inner cities where motorcycles weren't needed. I'm 67 and just purchased an 09 flstc.
This video just came on my recommended. I was going to do MMI when I got out of the military, but did something different... hindsight 🤷🏻♂️. But my son is a junior in HS and has his mind set on MMI. I'm really excited for him and will be looking up your video about it. Love the new mic
Hey john really enjoy the videos the lappel mic is a little dry needs some eq but my question about school is did you do the full course or just the harley one
John, good video. Congratulations on 50,000 Subscribers. The Mics both sound great. Interesting I found both Bike N Bird and Blockhead’s Channel from this one.
usually it works the other way, folks find me cuz of them! Thanks for the input on the mics!
Hi John from down under just got my first Harley electra glide and i love it also ride a fireblade and motocross 2 and 4 stroke love the channel i have learned more about harley in 3 weeks and i have you to thank so thanks john keep it going if you all head down here yell out ,all the best from Sydney Australia.
Lucky Daves shirt, nice! Love there bars and seat! Love your videos man.
Audio sounds good. The video of you flipping bottles was flippin hilarious.
Mic works well ....... videos are very helpful to me .... great job!
I love the videos and definitely want to here more about your time at mmi after coming to Phoenix mmi i wish i would've choose Orlando but im just glad im actually doing something i never thought i would. Missing home and family but i know it will be worth it in the end
Yes and the audio was clear and even, very cool
Hey John. Like the new mic much better. Thanks for the video and hope you had fun on vacation.
Hey John, you and I had similar experience in going to mmi. Working for Orlando HD while in school and still being techs 10 years after school I would be more than happy to share my experience giving up a $50k a year job for the life. Moving across country twice. Love the channel.
Hit me up on my fb messenger! I’d love to swap stories!
Love your vids and hope to watch you grow past 100k soon.
Great job John the mike sound good, I look forward to your vids every week they are a real treat to watch. 👍👍👍
Keep up the great work, you been fun, insightful, honest and I'm gonna keep watching! In fact the little lady and I just picked up our 2nd Harley last Saturday. Now the 48 anniversary has a 2018 fat bob to chase down...lol
I'm in the process of saving money right now to go to school out in arizona. I'm from northern New York, is there anything I can do now to better ready myself for my trip out? And your videos have helped me out a lot. You've been able to answer questions I have before I even have them. Thanks man
I watch your videos all the time John Maxwell and I have learned alot from them.
Hey Brother you earned it it's all about hard work case closed ,Keep up the info we all learn .
Great story John, I believe things happen for a reason. I enjoy your channel, much success to you, man.
Ayyy! Double dose of thumb. I started my morning with Blockhead's video of you. As for audio - Try a 90/10 split between the lav and the boom. That way you'll still get some of the "life" around you. The lav alone can end up sounding detached, almost like you're overdubbing in post.
Awesome. One thing I wish I had done years ago, was do a Motorcycle mechanic/Technician course. Love working on my bikes and helping out where I can with others also.
Your very informative in all regards to everything HD.
Keep up the brilliant feeds. 🎩👍🏼
John on your phone mount, to your motorcycle, what make is it? I’ve been looking for something like that.
Thanks for sharing your thoughts John. I've been watching you and Block from the get go (subscribed when you were in the 100s) and you two are a HUGE part of the reason I own a Harley now. As far as the nic goes, the lap mic is a little duller than the camera, but as long as you use only it in a video, no one will know the difference. Keep up the good work sir!
Loved the lapel mic... it's a definite improvement. John, I'm a 58 year old that has been disabled for work since 2009 when my diabetes took a turn for the worse. Won't bore you with stupid details... but I'm fighting disability court and have not made a dime since August of 09. I'm sick of sitting at home on my broke ass... the wife is barely making ends meet and she needs some help. My condition prevents me from holding down a regular job as I would not be reliable by my old performance standards, I can't do what I used to do in other words. I was freaking superman... did everything and slept 4 to 6 hours a night and did it again. Now I'm old and broke down and need an income ... any ideas? I'm about out of time and really want a Harley before I buy the farm. Thanks for your ideas. In a RUT in Oklahoma.
That’s tough! Diabetes is a rough one, and I’m sorry to hear it’s been extra hard on you the last few years. You can do a lot on the Internet to make money these days. A ton of info right here on YT!
John, great video. You’ve got a very honest approach to your presentations, keep’em coming. The audio was coming in great on my end. Thanks for all your informative conversation efforts much appreciated. Hope you had a terrific vacation. ;D. -Jim
Awesome John congrats on 50k
Awesome videos bro, im getting ready to start that journey at the Arizona campus pretty soon, i plan on taking every HD class that they have to offer but my question is when applying at Harley Davidson as a tech is there any other classes that would be beneficial to have on my resume whether it be taking classes for other makes of bikes or classes the school doesn’t offer like welding or OSHA courses. Ive done some research and heard that job security as a HD tech is pretty rough and want to get ahead of the game as much as possible. Thanks.
John, I retire in about a year and a half at the ripe old age of 52 and I'm wanting to go to motorcycle mechanic school. Have a huge passion for HD and riding. And enjoy the hell out of wrenching on a bike. I've tackled many repairs, upgrades such as a cam swap, clutch plates etc and find a huge pleasure doing it. What school do you recommend? What are the costs? What tips would you suggest as far as getting through school etc? I live in the Tampa/Clearwater area. Would love to hear back from ya.
Your videos are amazing John Maxwell. I am actually starting school on August 20th. I am having trouble finding apartment. The housing that you mentioned in this video, would you be comfortable in disclosing the rental company?
shoot me a private message on fb or IG
Your network or support group is Nice.... Maybe they can come by and help you unload that minivan lol.... Great work!!!!!
That mic sounds fine, the lappel has less back ground noise.
I’m from Northwest Arkansas and going to leave my family this July for the HD program. I don’t even own a bike yet and never have. I’m 29 and got tired of dreaming. GI Bill helps but I’m gonna be staying in their dorms. Any idea how the dorms are in Orlando?
I'm 51, retired and just got my 100% not too long ago. Looking to get Chapter 31 for MMI. Honestly not looking to go back to the grind, but this has been something I've always wanted to do. Hopefully learn to maintain my own bike and get some side gigs, maybe its something I can share and pass on to my kids. Been watching your videos and I'm wondering, is it worth it and should I go for it??
Happy fourth John!
As always... Thanks for taking the time for the vid and the info. 👊🍻
My vote is for the lepell mike. 👍
Happy freedom day!
John, both mics sounded good in both applications. So if you're gonna be walking around and stuff, collar mic will be your best bet obviously
Know the feeling, have to get back to work to rest.
My favorite statement is, " let's see more I can and less, I can't" thanks John
You doubled up in six months... 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻
The lav mic cuts out a ton of background noise, but sounds muffled. Are you running the recordings through any kind of audio mixer during post production? If so, try equalizing out anything below 60 htz. That should take the muffled sound out.
Thanks for the tip, I’ll look into that!
You're doing well John, & thoroughly deserve it , good on you 👍😎
Good mic. The new one that is. Keep up the great work
Shirt Mic for the win. I went to uti in Houston when I was 18 didn’t have support system. So advise I would give to the new school people is have back up plans and a plan after that and try to build a support system like you have. Thanks for the videos
Good tips!
Love that shirt life begins when you get one Harley-Davidson shirt love it and it's TRUE!!!
Fine job John keep up the good work Bro we all wait with excitement for the next video 👍👍
Biggest lesson after MMI, the school will restrict you to their little box, in every way and program you to think anything else is wrong. But in real life, if you’re stuck in that box you’re just another dealership parts changer who can’t think outside the box and dismisses everything else is wrong. However some techs (the ones you want to make friends with) are very knowledgeable and experienced. Now I can’t speak for all dealerships but as a customer and a professional, in my experience, every dealership I’ve been to is only in it for the money, not the bike or the customers interest, infested with overly pushy sales guys and 90% of the techs are like highly trained auto parts employees while only 10% really get it. And I’ve experienced a lot of animosity towards Indy shops and Indy techs. Which exist because of people who are sick of dealership shit. Now I’m not trying to knock anyone. It’s more a matter of the person holding the wrench than where they work. But The point I’m getting at it I was very shocked as I got deeper into the industry and saw how much incompetence and animosity exists. And it was very eye opening to experience everything from MMI, to a Harley dealership as an employee, to a metric dealership as an employee to an indy shop that went horribly wrong because I got fucked over by a POS who got into meth and literally left the shop with $0 in the bank. To now a successful small Indy shop in central florida. Again not knocking anyone or where they choose to work. It was just very eye opening to see what the industry is actually like. Compared to the fancy MMI videos and their fancy presentations and all the preconceived notions that were made to believe. Sorry for a long comment. Just trying to share my experience and opinion as a professional and a rider. Love the channel. And the content. Glad to see guys under the bar and shield putting out quality info.
I never realized the background noise but that microphone is way better
Boom has better quality, even if higher background pickup.
As many have stated, the lapel seems 'muddy'. But better background rejection.
Maybe play with EQ.
Interesting vid, as usual. Dirty thumb up!
@John I was an instant subscriber just from watching one video. You rock man. Your vibe is so chill 🤟😎. I would love an honest true answer from you about the school, I'm getting dead serious about going to the Phoenix campus Because I live in cali, I love all bikes but I'm specifically in love with the sport bike world. Mainly because it's the only part of the bike industry I've gotten the most experience riding, I'm coming into this with literally nothing in my pocket I'm unemployed at $500 a month and it all goes every paycheck, I have a little less than a year experience at Malcolm Smith Motorsports in Riverside Cali as a service shop porter but all I did was jump oil that was changed, moved and washed bikes, and kept things organized around the shop but no actual mechanic experience while I worked there although I got to watch it everyday. I have about 2 years experience at Sam's club tire shop and that's basically all my experience in the automotive industry. I went to Riverside community college automotive program for car and truck and I never finished because of relationship control and bad influence from women that didn't care about me. I started out tinkering on everything I could afford from Chinese pocket bikes to go peds to electric scooters to stand up gas scooters to mini bikes and Yamaha PW50 dirt bikes to my first big bike that was a 77 Kawasaki KZ1000 and then two kawi ninja 250s. The only other bikes I've ridden in my life was a Kawasaki versus 650, a 2012 ZX6, and a Harley fat boy with the twin headlight. I'm single now unemployed and living at my mom's house instead of on the street. I'm assuming if I make this jump I'll be living in my van until I can afford a place out there near the school. This is a really scary life-changing choice I'm making. Willingly taking myself out of my comfort zone at my mom's house and going back on the street in the same van I was living in before my last relationship ended from her cheating. I want to improve my life for myself to be independent and to be able to provide for my 6-year-old son. Am I making the right choice? I can tinker just about anything but when it comes to specs and electrical I am completely and utterly lost along with remembering all the socket sizes and the difference between standard and metric. Unfortunately I never focused on learning those details. is this a Pandora's box that I'm about to open of failure or do you think my ADD bike loving butt would find focus without the distraction of a girlfriend LOL? thank you greatly for reading all this and I sincerely look forward to your response! 🏍️🛵🤟😎
Audio was really good this time. Better! Question; does life really begins after buying another Harley? 👍👍👍😎🇨🇱
you got that close to the school and didn't go back and visit? I was there in 09 and was really hoping you'd show at least some of the school just for memories sake.
Hi John, thanks for another cool video. I look forward to seeing the bell notification when you post new stuff. I thought about going to MMI after I retire from the military. I have always loved riding and doing little things to my bike. TH-cam is a great teaching tool to help do some things to the bike but I would love to go to school and gain more knowledge. I guess my question is how hard was it to get enrolled and what is the cost for a school like MMI? I would use the GI Bill but I'm sure there would be other costs as well. Thanks for all the great content, and I look forward watching your next video.
Just keep moving forward Man great videos even besides working on the bikes. Audio sounds good thanks
Brother it sounds great I’m sure it’ll make filming at work much easier! Just got my 14” Factory 47 bars in for my 17 FLHRXS can’t wait to install them tomorrow after work!
Cool video of your bartender days!
yo John, have you ever seen a no rsp code from the icm option on the speedo with the run button turned on? mines doing that, i unplugged it and cleaned it, gave it some dielectric grease and no love.
I haven’t seen that with the run turn on. Only off. Is the run switch working?
yeah(i think anyway), it cranks with the run switch on but not with it off. weird right? sometimes it'll try really hard to run and fire off a bit but thats pretty rare and won't idle at all. i feel like the icm is on it's last few hairs of life. i'm going to have to bring it to the dealer to be sure but i wanted to double check before i had it towed away.
previous to this it was running like a top. carb is clean, jets clear, accelerator pump working etc
Great work John. Thanks, again. Did you work while going to school? Is it hard to get accepted to MMI? Is there financial aid available?
how was it looking for work after graduating MMI? did you stay close to your home town or venture somewhere new?
I just started at MMI-ORLANDO. I actually enjoyed Theory l, ll. Now I'm going to moto1. My question to you is Did you know anything about motorcycles when you started. I am new to it all. And my thoughts are will i be ready when I'm done school.
I didn't know anything more than the model names when I started. Keep up with the studying, and pay attention. You'll be ok. They're giving you more than you need to be a qualified entry level tech. You don't graduate as a master, so don't try to be one. You never quit learning in this field!
You Got This! Thank you!
Mic sounds great from the lapel. Thanks to the wife for some of the video and mom for watching your youngin. Love the video keep up the good work.
Thanks Philip!
Current student. Love the content.
We talk a Lot about what tools you will and won't need. Would you give a run down of an overall picture to the ideal tools for everyday that you will need outside of the basics. Thank you keep you the channel.
Thanks for another awesome vid, liking the new mic, sounds good.
Also special thanks to Mrs. Maxwell for the sweet footage!!
Does she ever get upset with all of the time you put into the channel?
I can imagine it has to be time consuming, maybe you could do a video about making one of your videos??
Cheers John!!
Did you learn all bikes or HD only? Was it possible to only learn HD?
Grats on 50k Brother!
Got a school question for you. I'm looking to start at the Phoenix campus in the spring of next year in the Harley program; is there anything you recommend to a prospective student?
Thanks
Thanks again for the advise and the video!
What was the cost of the school? Did you get tools upon graduating??
What advise would you give to someone thinking about going?
Thanks again! Hope your vacation was awesome!
Vacation was awesome! Thanks!