The garage workbench is a focal point of motorbike workshop activity.
Its correct positioning within the workshop and its strategic internal organisation can play a key role in managing workflows, thus directly influencing productivity.
Let’s examine these aspects in the article.
What are the essential features of a garage workbench?
It is important to remember that each garage workbench should be positioned and designed according to the specific needs of the mechanics and the tasks to be carried out with the aim of guaranteeing functionality and efficiency.
In order to define those needs, a conversation with the mechanics themselves is essential, and can often bring up interesting suggestions for improving performance in the long term.
Generally speaking, the elements to take into account when choosing a workbench are as follows:
- solidity
- optimisation of space
- worktop
- tool drawer unit
- perforated panel for tools
- power units and shared spaces
Let’s take a closer look.
Solidity
Solidity is the first aspect to consider: to be sure of making the right choice in the long term, it is essential to check the quality and solidity of the materials used to build the garage workbench.
Solid materials mean the workbench will last longer and won’t need to be replaced after only short periods of use.
In addition, it is also important to check the construction technique used: fully welded units, for instance, will ensure greater solidity of the product.
Optimisation of the space
Optimisation of the space is another key factor in terms of design: when building or upgrading a workshop, it is essential to make sure that the best use is being made of all the spaces, in order to guarantee efficient and productive workflows.
So be careful when choosing the workbench’s position and composition: for best results it is always recommended to start from the specific needs of the mechanic and the workshop.
Worktop
The worktop also needs to be suitable for the tasks to be carried out on the workbench: make sure that an appropriate material is chosen for the sheet metal surface, perhaps scratch proof or streak resistant.
Tool drawer unit
Depending on requirements, the tool drawer unit can either be integrated with the workbench, or mobile and portable within the workshop.
The installation of the drawers on special tracks cushions their closure, preventing wear and keeping the contents of the drawer itself in their place.
Handles are also an important consideration: ergonomic shape and easy-to-clean materials are key.
Perforated panel for tools
When it comes to perforated panels for positioning and storing tools, there are two main options: an open panel or a panel with shutter.
The choice may be based on aesthetic or organisational reasons. However, once again it is important to check that the material used is both suitable and of good quality.
Power units and shared spaces
Considering a space for power units within thegarage workbench can offer an excellent solution for optimising space and encouraging shared management between mechanics with adjacent workstations or who carry out similar tasks.
Now let’s take a look at some practical examples of workshop workbenches designed for the specific requirements of certain tasks.
Suspension workbench
The suspension workbench is an example of a workbench designed for carrying out a specific activity in the motorbike workshop.
The main aim of every feature included in this type of workbench is to prevent the spillage of oils and fluids, key elements of suspension work.
This ensures the workstation is always clean and tidy, resulting in greater efficiency and therefore improving the workshop’s profitability.
The features of a suspension workbench are:
- worktop with shallow central module - to allow the mechanic to work as close to the worktop as possible and avoid fluid dispersion
- drain surface, container and drip tray - to prevent oil and fluids dripping onto the floor or onto the workstation
- vacuum space - essential for keeping the workstation clean and tidy
- perforated wall panel - for hanging tools and forks
- space for installing a vice - essential for carrying out suspension overhaul
Generally speaking, the use of stainless-steel surfaces is preferred for this kind of workbench, as they are easy to care for and stain resistant.
Workbench for servicing and scheduled maintenance
This kind of workbench needs to be versatile and able to adapt to a variety of different maintenance operations.
The workspace must be quick and easy to manage, and built with materials that are easy to clean and difficult to damage, such as metal.
Acid, oil and scratch resistant surfaces are frequently used.
Again, spaces for tool storage, the positioning of power units and shared spaces for mechanics can be provided.
These are the features to consider when choosing a garage workbench, always starting from the practical needs of the mechanics and the work to be carried out.
It is vital to partner up with an expert in the sector when making this choice.
KIRO could be your partner.
With a wide range of products, extensive design experience and K-Green modular solutions, the experts at KIRO are here to help you make your choice.
If you want to know more about the company's products and designs, request a free, no-obligation consultation now:
