Chris Cuoco
Crew Chief Bio
Chris Cuoco has an extensive background in trades with a focus on motorcycle technology. Ranging from chassis building to onboard electronics to engine repair. Starting in an R&D facility specifically in motorcycle prototyping, Chris acquired skills from welding and machining to custom built wiring harnesses. Building bikes from wheel to wheel for about a year, he moved into the dealership industry.
Chris worked as a Service Manager and Technician for a San Francisco Bay Area Yamaha dealer, where he obtained a YTA Silver certification. He also worked as a Service Writer at a San Francisco dealership for just over a year. Having not worked as a mechanic during that time, Chris was hired at a suspension and service shop where a lot of his passion for race bikes began.
The need for more specific and focused skills brought him to Portland, Oregon to work at a performance race shop. Specifically building race bikes and semi regular service on street bikes, this is where he specialized in suspension, from OEM to aftermarket and even customizing setups to accommodate each rider. In April of 2021 he launched his suspension business, Gearhouse Motorsports LLC.
Currently he is Service Manager and Lead Brand Certified Technician for an Aprilia and Moto Guzzi dealership in Portland, Oregon.
Personal Story
My passion for motorcycles started when I was just a kid. Having toy models of YZF-R7’s and ZX-7R’s and creating racetracks in my living room. My mom never allowed me to ride when I was young. As I got older, other passions took over; farming, high-rise window washing, climbing instructor, tour guide, and finish carpentry from 17 to 27. When I turned 27, I decided to pursue my motorcycle endorsement. For the last 7 years I have owned 9 bikes and scooters and during that time have worked solely in the motorcycle industry.
Starting in 2019 I began to ride track. Not knowing what I was signing up for the first time, I was severely under prepared. Having done over 50 track days since then and meeting all types of people, I have developed a great track routine. Motorcycles have changed my life in a way I never knew was possible. From my thought processes to my daily routine, things have become more linear. As with working on bikes, life is a machine that needs tuning and reworking often. When you have a solid setup, everything works better.
The motorcycle community on and off the track is one of my favorites. It doesn’t matter what you do for work or for fun. When you are in the paddock and on the track, there is no place for egos. Whether you are a doctor, lawyer, teacher, or a mechanic, it is the ultimate leveler. The passion for being on the bike has led me to pursue my passions off the bike. I not only wrench for necessity but for fun as well. Giving back to my community drives me to learn more and excel in my trade.