October 8, 2012 - For the Love of the Ride

As the saying goes, “Find a job you love and you won’t work a day in your life.” For Motorcycle Mechanics Institute (MMI) instructor at the Orlando campus of Universal Technical Institute and veteran racing champion Bob Drapp, his job and passion are all about the ride. After his first spin on a Vespa at four years old, Bob fell in love with motorcycles and hasn’t looked in the rear-view mirror since.

“The feeling of freedom and excitement when you’re riding or racing motorcycles . . . it’s hard to put that into words,” Bob says. “My work is all about showing others how to build, repair and maintain bikes so they can be a part of that excitement and make a living in the business.”

After a successful career as a motorcycle technician, Bob joined MMI in 1988 and serves as a Harley-Davidson Instructor. The role gives him the opportunity to share his mechanical expertise, industry knowledge and enthusiasm for motorcycles with students at the start of their careers. He takes pride in knowing his students are learning the latest and best techniques available.

“MMI is one of the only schools in the country that’s supported by Harley-Davidson and all of the major motorcycle companies,” Bob says. “We receive regular updates from the companies and we even have some instructors on staff who train the dealership’s technicians. With this kind of preparation, our students graduate with confidence and credibility.”

When it comes to Bob’s credibility with students, his 46 years in the field and connections with top motorcycle manufacturers are impressive. But what really fascinates them is his record as an eight-time national champion of the All Harley Drag Racing Association (AHDRA). Bob has racked up the trophies racing a Harley Buell model he put together using a custom-built chassis, a racing engine from another bike and various parts he made himself.

At 61, Bob is looking forward to his next race and plans to ride as long as possible. With having seven motorcycles — including the racing bike, Harleys, a Kawasaki and a Yamaha — he’s ready to ride for years to come. And continue helping others launch a career in the industry he loves.

“This business has changed a lot over the years,” he says, “But what hasn’t changed is the way people love their motorcycles. Unlike a car, which is a necessity, bikes are all about fun. Riding a motorcycle means getting outside, enjoying the scenery and living life to the fullest. I love being a part of that. And I love living my dream … and helping others live theirs.”

For more information about MMI, please visit: www.uti.edu/programs/motorcycle.