Where Have all The Dealerships Gone !?

[Twotons]

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The economy changes..but there will always be someone to sell the car, bike or other toy you want; repairs at dealerships...why?...warranty work can be contracted out and plenty of excellent independents to provide non warranty service. And, parts should always be bought from the US because usually 40% less at the US dealership for the same oem part and 60% or more less at distributors like Rock Auto. Do I need more than one dealership within an hour drive of my place...no not really.

 

[Paul1000RR]

And what did they do in order to "adapt" that others didn't?

I've read that the dealerships more likely to have survived the last 15 years or so, are the ones with premium brands, because those more likely to buy them are less affected by the financial set-backs we've seen, i.e. are better heeled than those attracted to other, less distinctive brands, and/or are more dedicated to the sport.

I also read, many years ago, when Cycle World West closed, (how long was that?!) that there were 2 major culprits: the industry itself, focused too much on higher and higher numbers, RR type bikes, and the insurance companies making it almost impossible for young riders/new riders to afford insurance. Interestingly, it seems the industry is reeling itself in lately, introducing more and more entry level, mild performance bikes; and the government is FINALLY, doing, or at least paying lip service to doing something about the stupid insurance rates in Ontario.

I wonder if that will bring the motorcycle business back to where it once was. I miss spending a Saturday, cruising the dealerships looking for deals. I for one don't mind paying a little more at a dealership in order to have personal service, as long as there's no sexy young women trying to sell me something. I'm not that ****ing stupid.

I can tell you one thing from my experience, the places that closed down had horrible customer service, they'd tell you your bike will be ready on tuesday and a week later you're still waiting. No one gave a crap or bothered to help you when you'd walk into their place, they'd be too busty chatting amongst themselves and sipping on coffee.

Now several of the places i have gone where they keep their word and are eager to help you are still in business. Coincidence? I think not.

In business just as in life people who get it survive, those who don't make up excuses, and claim its everyone's fault but their own. It's good that places that are useless close down, this way people who give a **** can replace them.

 

[Paul1000RR]

I wonder if that will bring the motorcycle business back to where it once was. I miss spending a Saturday, cruising the dealerships looking for deals. I for one don't mind paying a little more at a dealership in order to have personal service, as long as there's no sexy young women trying to sell me something. I'm not that ****ing stupid.

Please elaborate on this.

 

[Macs]

I'd agree with what a few have already said; I have no trouble paying a bit extra for personal service and to support local shops (and we do still have a few good shops). That "bit extra" doesn't equal approaching and passing double the cost. I've seen what the distributors are selling many items to dealers for and genuinely believe that the blame falls solely on the distributors.

Totally agreed. Triumph parts are crazy cheap, and they're coming direct from the UK, I can't imagine why something from PartsCanada is so much more.

Fun fact: My windshield wiper fluid nozzle blew off my evo once (my fault). $30something for ONE little piece of ****ing plastic at Markham Mitsubishi. $11 in Buffalo.

 

[vociferous]

Totally agreed. Triumph parts are crazy cheap, and they're coming direct from the UK, I can't imagine why something from PartsCanada is so much more.

Fun fact: My windshield wiper fluid nozzle blew off my evo once (my fault). $30something for ONE little piece of ****ing plastic at Markham Mitsubishi. $11 in Buffalo.

i blame Kimpex/Parts Canada
their markup is retarded, and they have a stranglehold on distribution

 

[Roomie]

i blame Kimpex/Parts Canada
their markup is retarded, and they have a stranglehold on distribution

Here's what gets me. I purchased a Scorpio alarm. I got a great deal so it is what it is. You can go on their website directly and get better pricing than what places here quote. How can they possibly justify a markup when the manufacturer offers it directly for less? Making money is one thing. Screwing people with ridiculous numbers is a whole other.

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