| Author | Message | ||
     Ron_luning |
The point of this thread is to highlight the good and bad experiences we have at EBR dealers. The point is to name names. Hopefully those who read this can use it to good effect. I'm not really in the market for a new bike. I have a 2012 Yamaha Super Tenere that is pretty good any just about any kind of riding I do. Nobody amongst us needs to be reminded of the insatiable draw to new two-wheeled machinery though. With 2 EBR dealers within a 30 minute drive, I thought I would check out the 1190SX at both. I won't provide any assessment of the motorcycle itself here, as the point is to provide useful feedback about the dealer. Dealer 1: BMW of San Diego. I'd been here before years earlier to check out the various BMW bikes. At the time, I found the staff snooty, and the prices outrageous. Earlier this year I went back to buy some Gerbing heated gloves. The parts people were good to deal with and the prices were good too. I went in on 10/21/2014 to see the EBR 1190SX. Outside they have a somewhat filthy 1190RX and 1190SX. They are demo bikes. I noticed that the rubber tube coming from the top of the coolant tank on the SX is cracking badly. I sit on the bike and look at it for some time, nobody comes out to bother me. To me, that's a good thing. I'd like to be able to walk onto a motorcycle dealer lot without attracting salesmen who will stand over me and annoy me. Inside, I look at the gloves as I'm in need of a new set of hot weather ones. A parts guy looks to help me out. Usually, these guys are unaware of what they have on the shelves right in front of them. However, he was able to pinpoint a glove most similar to the ones I was looking to replace. He then talked about how AGV and Alpinestars products for sale in the USA are more or less American rather than Italian products, and that they're both typically made in neither country. Good experience. Moving over to the bikes: the $2000 discount is displayed via a postcard on an 1190RX. There is no indication of it on the SX. The prices are MSRP on the tags. This doesn't mean that they wouldn't do it, but it seems they're not advertising it. Who knows, maybe they were not even aware of it... Salesman asks if he can help me while on his way to another task. I said I'm just looking but he takes a few minutes to talk about the bikes. He knows about the EBR racing campaigns and brings them up first. I had to ask if they've had any luck selling EBR bikes so far. They've been a dealer from the get-go. He said he thinks they've only sold a "couple". This might mean 0-2. He did say they have a customer who purchased in Nevada but lives here in San Diego for whom they do service. Good experience. I recommend BMW of San Diego. Dealer #2: Escondido Cycle Center. I park the Super Tenere in front of the building. The spot is maybe 40 feet from the door. As I walk in, this big guy who's Dad was probably his Uncle, just blurts out in no specific direction "Is that a KLR?" I feign not realizing he's talking to me just so he can say it again. He does. I say no, it's a Yamaha. Now this dealer does not sell Yamaha, but they had 2 or 3 KLRs right on the floor. Bad start. Then he comments about my top case and says "Pizza box"...meaning I could fit one inside. Bad middle. The EBR bikes are right inside the front door. This clown's desk is right next to them. I'm checking them out, but the technical inspection is brief as I just got done looking at them at the BMW shop. The prices are ludicrous. No mention on a single one of $2000 discount. Dealer has a $1000 "handling" fee and a $900 freight fee on the tag. The 1190SX is being advertised at this place for $18,800 before taxes. In CA, that means they would love to get you to write a check for $20,300. I didn't bother asking how many they'd sold. The rest of the place is filled with Suzuki, Kawasaki, and Honda bikes. It has been a while since I walked around a multi-line dealership, and what I saw indicated a massive change in the market. They had lots and lots of all those cheap small displacement bikes. Honda has really met that need with 300-500cc offerings. I had to think to myself that the EBR bikes, even with correct pricing, would be out of place in a dealership selling cheapy Honda putt-putt machines. Bad experience now over, thank goodness. So what have you experienced at an EBR dealer you visited? I think that EBR would do well to read that kind of information in determining who to work with first in trying to boost sales. | ||
| Classax |
AF1 Racing= Best dealership in the country by far, not only did they have the bikes, and beautiful displays they had EBR accessories and SPARE PARTS IN STOCK!!!!! They haven't sold but 2 EBR's and its tough because they sit next to Aprilias which up until this month were $3K,$2K,cheaper with the RSV4 factory having all the Ohlins for the same price. HSBK- Basically the same issues. The demo truck did a big promotion there. They have sold 0 EBR's. Its a basically a high end Ducati Aprilia shop so again, the Ape has a pedigree and perception of value that is hard to compete with for a new bike that isn't manically more powerful. HSBK is no longer a dealer by the way. The staff clearly likes the RSV4, despite the fact that three EBR including mine spun their dyno higher than a couple of the their race prepped RSV4s. GOE- EBR proudly displayed along side Kawasakis. Lots of signage and EBR apparel The staff is familiar but not super knowledgeable about the bikes. The GM definitely is. Their main business is ATV's its not the place you would think of to buy a superbike. The staff if personable and easy going. They have sold 2 RX and 3 Sx. That's great considering your average Houston sportbike guy would never really just stop buy that store. EBR dealers need more training on why the bikes are different, where the customer is getting value and the difference in riding style you need with these bikes vs an I4. Until then the demos will see guys trying to get power out the wrong part of the range, and unimpressed by how easy it is to ride very hard. | ||
| Mackja |
I already knew my dealer, I ride up to north Georgia once a year and always stop in. Several of my friends have bought from them in the past. Only issue is they seem to be a little under staffed in the service department, service manager is extremely capable, but is stretched thin. When it was time for my first service the service manager was on vacation, he set it up for me to come up and use the service department on my own to do the job, I was really surprised by that offer. As I get ready to do the first valve adjustment in the off season, he is going to set aside a day for me to bring up the bike and both of us will do the job. Now having some background with Buells has encouraged the opportunity. So overall I would most certainly recommend my dealer, 1st class folks front to back. | ||
| Djohnk |
AF1 Racing in Austin Tx -- very good experience, the knowledgeable salesman asked me what I was riding, I told him a Buell XB12X ... right way he said "you must be waiting for the AX?" They let me go on a long test ride of the RX (he asked me how long I wanted to ride and gave me a 20 minute route because I was in a hurry). No pressure sales attitude, no hassle getting a test drive except you had to have the riding gear and a Motorcycle endorsement on your license of course. (Message edited by djohnk on October 22, 2014) | ||
| Ljm |
I have visited or dealt with four so far, missed another due to too late in the day. +1 for AF1 Racing. They signed on early, started a forum, and know what they are doing. They got parts, they know the bikes, and they ship (important to me). Visited GN Gonzales in Baton Rouge. Nice folks, and had just gotten their bikes, in May. Had a nice display front and center and were interested in talking and selling them. They offered to let me ride the RX and the RS. Later, they also said that they thought I was from the factory checking up on them since I knew the bikes, etc. PMJolly bought his there I think. Top Spoke in Tempe: Were a little slow on the uptake, but assigned a guy to sell the EBR's and he bought a used XB9 to get familiar with non-cruisers. Very motivated, and they held a demo night for the ASBN guys in Phoenix. They replaced the throttle bodies under warranty on the RX, did it quickly, and fixed the error code problem. Rick Hatch was an early signer on with Buell and a friend of Erik. Believes in the American bike proposition. They had one RX in when I was there this past week for about 2 minutes and had to run before I had time to talk to anyone. I know they have sold one because I ran into the owner at a Quick Trip. He is very excited about his bike. Iron Horse in Tucson: These guys are great. I visited them before they had an EBR and when I shut the RS down, John was standing there already. They have taken theirs to track days and let other folks ride it there as well. Mostly a BMW shop, but they have a former Buell tech and are ready to go to work. Nice shop, great guys, good service department. I would deal with these guys. | ||
| Dmhines |
That's interesting .. the Throttle Bodies were also replaced on my RX to resolve DTC errors ... | ||
| Pmjolly |
Ljm is right. I purchased my RX from GN Gonzales. They were the first dealer I found with a red one. I wanted it for my annual trip to the Dragon. I picked it up on the way from Texas to Tennessee. I was not happy with my overall experience, but they do get some credit for attempting to correct it. I have two dealers close by in Dallas/Fort Worth. I have had only a few interactions with them. One has a reputation of being snobby. The other seems OK, but they did not even have basic maintenance items like an oil filter available when I did my first oil change. I bought 1125 filters from a local Harley dealer that keeps Buell parts on the shelf. My dealer of choice is AF1 Racing in Austin. They have a very good reputation. I have dealt with Brent Davidson in service. Ill be stopping in to visit them next week on my way to south Texas hill country for some spirited riding. I will travel 3 hours for a dealer with a good reputation before I will go to a dealer 30 minutes away with a bad reputation in my mind. Of the several dealers I have dealt with, RPM in South Carolina is possibly the most enthusiastic. Eric Smith has attended several Buell gatherings in his area, even bringing test rides. I had mentioned to Eric I was looking for a red RX when they were just coming out. I mentioned I would be traveling to the Dragon. He showed up with a new red RX in an enclosed trailer for sale. Had I not already purchased mine, I would have taken his. He also donated to a raffle during the Buell/Dragon event that was to raise money for a charity helping injured motorcyclists. He donated an EBR leather jacket to be raffled off. It fits very nicely........ | ||
| S21125r |
“…he is going to set aside a day for me to bring up the bike and both of us will do the job.” A bit off topic as it related to dealer service in general instead of a specific dealer… Mackja’s quote above intrigues me. I think something along these lines would be a really cool service that could be offered with almost no out of pocket cost to the dealer. I’m not talking about dropping the shop rate or having the customer necessarily do some of the work, but it would be nice to sit on a bar stool next to the lift and watch/bullcrap with the mechanic as he’s doing the work. Learn a lot and build respect between mechanic and customer that way. Kind of like the doctor/patient relationship is in the medical field. At my now defunct HD/Buell dealer, they had the service area arranged so that they had to drive the bike through the customer lounge to get to/from shop area. With the service bay door open I was able to secretly watch the mechanic do his work and was impressed with how respectfully and thoroughly he did his job – almost as if it was his own. From that point forward I always requested that mechanic if possible. Good salesman are a dime a dozen, good mechanic on the other hand... | ||
| Buelliedan |
I hope to hear folks say soon that NRHS EBR in Colorado is the best EBR dealer folks have ever known!!!  | ||
| Court |
You are in the in the enviable position to be 100% in control of that. Let me be the first to congratulate you. | ||
| Buelliedan |
"With the service bay door open I was able to secretly watch the mechanic do his work and was impressed with how respectfully and thoroughly he did his job – almost as if it was his own." Our plan at our new dealership is to have the showroom in the front and the service area in the back with no wall in between so that folks can watch if they wish for that same kind of reasons. | ||
| Phelan |
I think this will be a lot of fun! So when will I get a day off for a test ride Dan?  | ||
| 46champ |
Ross if you need a whole day of to test ride a bike he will have to sell it as a used bike. | ||
| Phelan |
Nah I don't need a whole day to test ride, but I'll likely need the rest of the day to rebuild my rocked-off face  . | ||
| Sgtbuell |
Stopped by Sunrise Cycles in Norfolk Virginia on my 1125R to check out the EBRs. Damn they look good in person. + Just started carrying EBR 3 months ago and seemed happy about it. Sold one so far and had two RXs and two SXs in the show room. Salesman, older gentleman knew a little of Buell and HD's history. No hassle approach and friendly. The dealership is right next to a Cycle Gear store. - Same salesman thought I came on a TL, needs more training on what an EBR is. Limited parts and no EBR merchandise. While checking out the radiator on an RX I couldn't help but notice a pile of small pebbles in the belly pan. Brought it up to the salesman and he didn't know how they got there. | ||
| Djohnk |
Just visited House of Cars and Cycles in Tulsa, OK. They are very new, the only EBR dealer in Oklahoma, and just got their first bike ... a white SX. Very nice people ... they know Danny Eslick very well, and even have some of his trophies on display. Very small shop ... mostly deal in used Harleys and nice cars. I think they mentioned their mechanic loves Buells. (Sorry about the double post ... meant to post this here originally) | ||
| Dynasport |
Dropped by St. Pete Powersports today. They had three two RXs and one SX. They were in the back, kind of out of the way. I talked to a nice salesperson. He seemed pretty excited about the EBRs, but complained that he didn't like the hard clutch pull. He didn't know the clutch had been changed and there was a retrofit kit. In fact, he didn't know much at all about them. He said they had sold an RX and a couple of SXs, but that they weren't moving them well. He said EBR didn't let them do anything on the price and they had to sell them for what EBR required. So, overall a nice guy without very little information and the dealership wasn't giving the bike much promotion in their placement of it. I don't think EBR will survive if all their dealers are like this. | ||
| Ljm |
I a couple of thoughts on this: The first is that when I go to lots of the dealers around here they are only selling about half their stock too. Would be nice to sell all of them though. The second is what I have found at some dealers and others have reported: that the sales people don't know much about the bikes. When the Mrs. and I bought the two 1125's during the fire sale, the salesman knew a bunch of stuff about the bike and Buell history, like throttle body diameter, number of teeth on the sprockets, type of tires on various bikes, seat height and on and on. I actually asked him why and he said that the owner made each of the sales people spend half a day studying the bikes they sold when they came in. They read manuals, looked a the bikes, rode them. And as a result, he could talk about them at length. Does nobody do that out there? How do they expect to sell them? | ||
| Meoff_69 |
Dynasport.... When i bought my sx it was before the big promotion of 2000 off. without even haggling with the dealership they took 1000 off. I'm not sure why EBR would tell a dealership that they have to sell the bike at this price. It would seem to me that if a dealership wants to make 100 on each bike that's there prerogative. I can see EBR saying this is the highest your allowed to sell at... | ||
| Classax |
To be honest, if I'm EBR why would I wait for a sales guy to learn all the great stuff about my bike when I could prepare a marketing video that the sales staff or consumer could watch and learn from at their leisure. a 20 minute walk through by some one truly familiar with the what's and the whys of the features of the bike would be great. Example we all complain about the strap on the pillion seat making it a pain to mount and remove easily but there is actually a cut out so it can be store UNDER the seat as well so you really only use when you actually need it. Simple stuff like that can be huge. When dealers are able to explain simple stuff like that, instead of it being an easter egg for the owners you will see higher sales figures as well. | ||
| Froggy |
I see this at many dealerships, regardless of brand or what they are selling. Outside the main bread and butter items, salesmen typically are not up to snuff on all the details. Also the salesmens personal interests are a factor, someone who lives and breathes choppers isn't going to pay as much attention to sportbikes, and vice versa. | ||
| Court |
>>>could prepare a marketing video Done over a year ago . . along with videos of AL the procedures in the service manual. | ||
| Ffbuell1 |
I will add a very good dealer ,I just today took delivery of an 1190SX from Razee's in Rhode Island , They are a long time multi brand dealer and talking to the owner (who is a real enthusiast) and long time racer and his sales manager they are working hard to learn all they can about E.B.R. So if you are in Connecticut Rhode island or Massachusetts II think it is definitely worth the drive this dealership get's it! | ||
| Classax |
FFBUELL1 congrats bro! Enjoy! | ||
| Hughlysses |
Congrats Christopher! Hey- you need to update your profile.  | ||
| Classax |
>>>could prepare a marketing video Done over a year ago . . along with videos of AL the procedures in the service manual. I stand corrected, they could RELEASE said videos... | ||
| Ffbuell1 |
Thank's every one it is a great bike,and as I said I was impressed with Razee's motorcycles.they are family owned and sell 9 brands and just about everyone there races or at least rides either street dirt or both. | ||
| Court |
That's really good to hear about Razee's. I suspect they are not unaware of the fact that they are poised right on the edge of the largest population center in the USA. I have several friends who drive from NYC to Warwick to do their Porsche shopping. RI . . for those of you in the hinterlands . . . is a chip shot from NYC. | ||
| Ron_luning |
I visited Sunrise Cycles in Norfolk, VA today. They were friendly and knowledgeable about the EBR bikes. The only exception was that they said there was no discount running on the SX currently. If you're in the area, it seems like they would be good to deal with, | ||
| Sparky |
Does that dealer know that the $2000 discount from EBR for the 2014 SX continues to the end of November 2014? Or maybe they don't participate in that program. | ||
| Court |
>>>Does that dealer know that the $2000 discount from EBR for the 2014 SX continues to the end of November 2014?
 | ||
| Ron_luning |
The guy I was talking to said that EBR was offering that last month but not this month. Sounded like misinformation rather than intentional non-participation, but maybe that was their way of making EBR the bad guy and not the dealer. Who knows? In any event, they had 2 SXs in stock. In my opinion, $15k is still at least $1500 too high as MSRP. The competition is steep in the "superfighter" category. This dealer is in a good location though to reach tens of thousands of Sailors. Lots of motorcyclists, and lots of made in 'Merica enthusiasm in that group. | ||
| Froggy |
It originally wasn't for November, it was extended. He likely didn't get the memo. (Message edited by froggy on November 23, 2014) | ||
| Froggy |
http://erikbuellracing.com/wp-content/uploads/2014 /10/1006_RXFALLSAVINGS_endsoct31.jpg Funny enough, the URL says "ends oct 31" but the fine print says Nov 30th, which implies they replaced the old one like this so they wouldn't need to update all the links around the web. | ||
| Von |
I also went to two in California. Escondido cycle center like the OP knew nothing about the bike and there were so many lower displacement Japanese bikes around that the EBR looked as out of place as the can ams did. Almost every question I asked could either not be answered, or, worse, answered incorrectly. It was incredibly high pressure sales, and, while they did offer a test ride, and said they would beat other dealers offers, their methods turned me off completely. Before we even started talking numbers the salesman tried, unsuccessfully, a few times, to get me to sign a loan application. I told him succinctly, unless you can beat 16,000, out the door, there is no reason for me to sign anything. The sales guy went to talk to his manager, and left me and my girlfriend sitting at his desk for half an hour, which was more than enough time to call the other dealer, explain where I was and my intent, and, if they could do 15.5 out the door. By the time the salesman came back I had already made my mind up that I wasn't going to buy there, but listened to his story on how they could not make the numbers work and unless I had some physical proof of 16 OTD they just could not do it. I told him thank you for his time, and for the test drive, but that I was no longer interested in purchasing from them because the other dealer was able to make the price I had asked. The salesman became quite rude and snooty, and I was glad to be out of there. When I got into my car, I then called back tri-county power sports, an offshoot of Simi Valley Harley Davidson, who I had initially talked to a few days prior out of curiosity about their 1190RXs, as they had a dealer demo at 13.5, but in yellow. When I called back I talked to the sales manager, who then asked my permission to talk to the general manager of SVHD, and I agreed. He said that he would love to do 15.5 otd, but had to make some money, so if I could give up a couple and go 16. I relented and accepted, gave information over the phone for loan, and they asked what time I could go in to finalize paperwork and drive it off. I informed them Sunday was the only day I could do, and it would have to be early, as I had a lot going on. They agreed to go in early (730 AM) on Sunday to finalize paperwork, ensure the bike was ready and to hand over the keys. Sunday rolled around and sure enough, me and the sales associate whom I had been working with and the sales manager meet outside of the dealership, half awake and opened up shop two and a half hours before official hours. The only thing I can say negative about this dealership was no test rides, but I understand that the EBR is the only sport bike they have (Harley dealer like I said, the power sports side was ATV's, side by sides and dirt bikes, and, of course a few EBR's) they are quite concerned someone will wreck it and they'll be out product. However, they were friendly, helpful, up front and honest about many things. I quizzed the sales associate on service intervals, and what he did not know he promptly looked up. The sales associate made no false promises about trying to get me a deal, he told me we would have to talk to the sales manager. He was honest about volume sold (2) and was a very pleasant character. I also asked how much would it cost if I were lazy to have my 6k service done there with valve adjustment. He directed me to the service department (in the Harley section!) And they were able to tell me how much Harley techs would charge and how long it would take (something like 9 hours and 900 dollars). The sales manager was up front and direct, without being rude, I gave him my prepared speech about early adoption, parts availability, survivability of the EBR brand. When he would come with happy stories about survival and parts availability I reminded him that Erik Buell's bikes used to be sold in his building. When I told him I wanted him I wanted the bike, but only at the right price, he listened, and when I told him 16, out the door, he fight the idea a little, but accepted the idea that selling one cheaply and getting it out on the roads was better for business then not selling it. They were very helpful and I'd recommend anyone serious about buying one of these amazing bikes to give Simi valley Harley a chance. | ||
| Classax |
I guess since I have worked in Supply Chain Management for the last 20 years I tend to not think about raking every dollar possible off the table in order to ensure that my suppliers are profitable enough to be sustainable and a client of choice. Congrats on the bike, hope you enjoy. EBR really needs to create a standard sales training program so that dealers are at least semi equipped to sell the bikes after a favorable test ride. | ||
| Von |
I agree and disagree with that. I believe it's the dealership's responsibility to sell the bike, to at least give it a once over and maybe read the manual. I'm much more likely to buy a product from someone who is knowledgeable about what they sell vs someone looking solely to turn a profit. My intention wasn't too starve the dealer, but I knew what I wanted to pay and wasn't afraid of walking away. Besides, what I paid is falling right in line with what they are offering some up for, and there's a dealer in LA that is selling for 13,900, which is about 600 less than I paid. I enjoy the hell out of the bike, but that isn't to say it's flawless, and has issues that I'm concerned with. My rear spring has lost paint and chipped some of my subframe off, and I keep getting an engine error code for O2 sensor fault. Coming from an S1000RR, it's a vastly different bike, a vastly different dealer network, almost 0 aftermarket support, but it is an incredible piece of kit. Transitions are so easy, no fighting the bike down into the turns. An outlined service schedule is appreciated as well(the BMW required you take it in and the computer cooks up a maintenance at time of service). I don't feel I raked every dollar off the table, but I did go in knowing what I wanted as a payment and what I was willing to put down. | ||
| Classax |
NO need to defend Von, I respect any guy smart enough to go from a S1Krr to an RX despite what we agree are not so minor flaws.  I was speaking more toward the over all view that the EBR was overpriced at release. On one hand people say they're concerned about the long term viability of EBR as a brand at the same time trying to drive the price down to big 4 levels when the bike isn't made by a big 4 company and delivers more performance in terms of handling and power. It delivers Ducati level power, and race bike performance. So its priced accordingly given the economy scales for the MFG.  To be successful EBR needs customers to love the bike and dealers to stock it, for dealers to stock it they have to want to deal with the EBR customer knowing they will make money. For customers to buy the bikes they have to like dealing with EBR and EBR dealers. Its a tough row to hoe when Ducati do all the above better, and the big 4 can do it so much cheaper and BMW offering so bang for the buck.  Now go  the wheels off that RX! Welcome to the EBR family! | ||
| Von |
It's definitely a hard thing starting in such a competitive market segment. The liter bike is the most hotly contested arena and there is so many various choices and styles. The Aprilia RSV4 R APRC can be had cheaper than most, some dealerships were offering as low as 15 otd, and that bike is usually the one people will buy even knowing what terrible parts availability and problems there are. The V4 is always highly regarded. The S1000RR can be had around 16 otd year end, maybe less if you can drive the price down enough, but like I said, you can't do your own service because they don't give you a service schedule. The OEM parts are incredibly over priced in typical BMW fashion, and the 13-14 models need the rear shock revalved out of the box. At least according to the chief mechanic at CSS. The big 4 I never really bothered to look at, so I won't get into them, but their dealer network, aftermarket support and availability of cheaply priced parts is incredibly enticing as it is. Ducati is prices right in line with the EBR, the base 1199 anyways, but, you're paying for the name I think more than anything. I think the 1199 is a stunning bike, absolutely beautiful, but it's more art than function in my opinion. The EBR list price more than all but the Panigale, and while I do understand cost of development, a lot of the tech was already there from the 1125 and RS. I get that they don't produce enough volume either to drive down costs through saturation. But it's a very hard pill to swallow paying more when some things, just aren't on the table. Now I love this engine, I wouldn't say it's better than the S1000RR but different. However the whole package is more effective at what it does, I believe. The concessions given up and allowed to the other companies are just too much for some. I will say the thing I miss the most from the BMW are the heated hand grips. I know most will say quick shifter, shift light, etc etc. I miss my warm hands riding at night or in cold weather. A lot of people I see say they would buy if only it had abs. Personally, I don't feel it meds it from the way you can modulate front braking. The BMW, depending on mode won't save your ass either, but it's brilliant marketing to throw that and all the other goodies on there. It's the illusion of safety while getting the full power of this behemoth, but, even with the EBR, traction control, and abs diminish full power and control. Anyways, I love this bike, I really enjoy it more than my S1000RR. My point is, coming into this market segment as an unknown and costing more while offering "less" in as far as parts, dealer network, aftermarket parts, factory options, makes it a non starter for most people. I don't know how to turn this around for them except to be lower priced to give perceived value vs the others, or giving factory options for the things most cry about, like abs, quick shifter. I think it's a lot like the RC8, except that bike already has a huge following from the super duke and dirt bike crowd, where EBR had only the Buell's of yesterday to draw comparison to, all the while having nowhere near the dealership presence. Where I bought mine looked like the old Maytag commercials. One guy sitting at his desk in an abandoned show room. When we went over to the Harley service department, I peeked inside the show room and it was riddled with prospective buyers, all looking at the same bike, with different paint or bags. Blew me away. If the magazines could give it more magazine exposure in shoot outs I think it would help, or maybe a press day where it isn't raining. The only comparisons I've seen from publications are against the other twins, and most don't care about twins. Put it against the big four and Italians. Sure it may not win, but the merits will be seen and brought to the attention of readers and people considering other bikes. A better test drive program would help too. Trying to sell a car or bike without allowing a test drive is ludicrous. I could understand if it was a dish washer, but not something that you're going to have to trust you're life to. Anyways, that's my two cents. | ||
| Unibear12r |
I was one of the two priors Von so it looks like we have a dealer in common. Thought I noticed a bike drop from their on-line inventory. You will have a lot more dealings with them as I am an hour and a half up north. I think your assessment of Tri-County is pretty close. They seem interested in the brand and knew more about things Buell than I thought they would. But they have a lot of Harley mind set to overcome yet. The guy in parts there who handles EBR has a good mind set but absolutely hates EBRs parts info/distribution system. Tried to get some body screws and it took shipping me three sets to get the right ones. In the end after a number of emails, then sending pictures of the different screws and then a long phone call while he went over EBRs parts graphics we determined that the two screws that hold the body together under the bottom of the bike are displayed as under the seat. Yes I was being picky but he kept a great attitude the whole time and worked it like it was worth a much greater dollar amount than it was. (Message edited by unibear12r on January 18, 2015) | ||
| Von |
Fairing bolts are one of those things... You can have the parts fiche and piece # right in front of you. Has that issue with my 600. They sent out the wrong pieces, but they were the right thread. I emailed the company, they refunded my money and I stuck them on the bottom under the pipes. I've only had to get an oil filter from them, I think I'll eventually need to go get another air box cover once someone produces a solution to tearing up the finish. Over all though, I like them, they actually remember your face and name, a rarity these days. | ||
| Dualbuells |
okay, so since this thread is about EBR dealer experiences.... the salesman i purchased from Powersports (Mason Mich)was excited about the bike and very positive about EBR and the bikes. I purchased the 14' Glacier Blue 1190SX at the end of December. They tried to tell me that only one ignition key was supplied and only dealers have been given service manual. see my post about ignition key and service manual and insueing conversation. I followed up today on key and was told " EBR said out of blanks, nothing until March, send us an email in March to remind us!" WTF, so far this dealer gets a big thumbs down from me. Besides it's a 3 1/2 drive one way from my house, so manual or not I will be doing my on service. For now she sits in the heated garage for the next 4 months. I cannot wait to swing a leg over her! I'm sure she will be more exciting than either of my other Buell1125r/cr's.  | ||
| Court |
Something about this just doesn't sound right ...... There's GOT to be a disconnect somewhere.. I'd damn sure keep close track of THE key. | ||
| Ljm |
No kidding, Court. I am on the road and can't compare keys, but I do know that there are buell key blanks on ebay and if they work, I would buy a pair and get them cut just in case. Otherwise, I would be down at the hardware store finding something that would work. | ||
| Pmjolly |
They are not unusual keys. I'd tell the dealer I was going to have another one made on my own, then voice my displeasure to anyone that would listen. Maybe they would pay for it. It's not about the money. It's about customer service. | ||
| Unibear12r |
Ok, so that got me off my butt to compare my 1125 keys to my 1190 keys. Sure looks to be the same blank to me. The tumbler cuts are way different so it wont start the bike but the slots, key length and shoulder look exactly the same. The 1125 key goes right in the 1190 ignition just fine so I think using an 1125 blank will work. | ||
| Court |
It is about customer service. And there was such a great plan. I'm hoping someone will wake up and decide to bring the EBR customer / dealer function in house ....... The outside consultant and tribe don't seem to be cutting it. 2 years with no service manual ...... And sparse information ...... Coupled with the"excuse of the week" customer service model won't play well for long. | ||
| Dualbuells |
My point exactly, it's about customer service! Sure I can go get a key made, but why should I need to when it should have been provided upon final sale without lame excuses. It's not about spending a few $ on getting a key made, how about good old fashion "customer service". At this point, it sits in the garage until the snow and salt are gone, and I more than likely will get my own key made, it just goes against the grain of things. Once you buy it, next $ !! Your on your own. | ||
| Ljm |
While this is not so much a dealer but a marketing issue, I am interested in what EBR has in store for Moto America. The RX's seem to be selling well outside the U.S., and if they are successful with the revived WSBK team and bikes, that will help, but here where either we don't know how things are going or they aren't going well, a solid plan, even if modest for a factory team would seem to be key. I know there are several guys out there with bikes that intend to run, hopefully with some factory support, but the team seemed to generate a good deal of interest here. Team visits to dealers and demo days with some of the team riders/staff would seem to me to generate a lot of traffic. | ||
| Ffbuell1 |
I too have an interesting situation. I bought a new 1190 SX from Razee's in Rhode Island (I think they are a great dealership . Here is my problem I took delivery of my bike on October 30th and a few day's later I was going all through the bike (checking adjustment's etc.) when I realized my key would not go into the lock to release the top of the rear fender to access the tool kit and fuses, the only way it would go in is if you force it in with a light tap and then I needed to use a pair of pliers to remove it. I tried both keys and used lock lube. with no success .I called my dealer and told them ,they have been calling me weekly with update's and telling me E.B.R. say's they are trying to get me a tumbler to match my keys and still have had no luck. I find this so called customer service from E.B.R. unacceptable II hope some one from the company start's reading some of these posts and realize they better do something about these issues or they won't sell bikes at any price. | ||
| Court |
>>>>The RX's seem to be selling well outside the U.S. How many have sold outside the US? | ||
| Ljm |
Don't know for sure, but talking to people, and fewer dealers total overseas, seems to be going o.k. Some of the dealers have not sold a single bike and some of them are good dealers. Would be nice to see real data, but I figure that is not coming. | ||
| Midknyte |
West Chicago'ish - Motorcycle Center of Villa Park http://www.teammcc.com/inventory/v1 Finally got around to checking the store out last weekend. 'bout 3 or 4 times bigger than I expected. Recently moved, niche bike shop - Ducati, KTM, MV Agusta, Norton, Triumph + now EBR. They had 6 Buells right inside the door (2 RX, 4 SX). I'm not sure on the impression it makes - they are the first thing you see when you go in, but in just that one small spot that you walk by to get the rest of the store. http://www.teammcc.com/default.asp?page=xNewInvent ory#page=xNewInventory&make=erik%20buell%20racing& d=on&t=new Good to see them in a store associating with other high end bikes. EBR is as prominent (on their website and business cards), but zero swag to be seen (shirts, etc.). They do have a demo bike though | ||
| Nobuell |
I work not to far from MCC. They are a great shop. Very knowledgeable people there and friendly to work with. They have some fine service people there. I know of at least one that has extensive Buell service background and was a Buell and soon to be EBR racer. | ||
| Sprintst |
Hmm, just visited BMW San Diego this past week. (2) EBR's, one of each, sitting outside. Didn't talk to anyone about the EBR's. Did chat with the parts guy, he was nice | ||
| Buelliedan |
NRHS EBR has lots of EBR shirts for sale!! hehe  (Message edited by buelliedan on February 02, 2015) | ||
| D_adams |
But where are they located in your online store/shop? | ||
| Court |
Egads ...... Not a word about EBR on your website. Let me guess ..... Same webmaster? :-) | ||
| Buelliedan |
My dealership licence is not finalized with the state of CO yet. Waiting on that before we officially announce as an EBR dealer so as not to ruffle any feathers. | ||
| Phelan |
It is easier for a person to obtain license to manufacture and sell marijuana in Colorado than it is to become a dealer. | ||
| Panhead_dan |
Maybe a combo shop? Hello, my name is Dan. May I interest you in an EBR or some buds?  | ||
| Court |
I understand that . . . . My NYC license took 3 years to get and the background check was more extensive, and took longer, than my NAC for the USMC and my clearance with The White House. There is now a 7 year wait for NYC licenses and you have to produce 5 notarized letters from prior employers going into significant details about your responsibilities and scope of authority. I'd wager . . . that Colorado, at present, is perhaps making more on Marijuana than motorcycle dealerships. Who'd have thunk it . . . . . | ||
| Figorvonbuellingham |
Team mcc is the shop that only offered me $10,000 for my 8 month old "BMW s1000rr. In fact the salseman advised me to keep my BMW because it was a much better machine. I was like wtf kind of contradictory shit is this. No wonder they have so many EBR s. | ||
| Buelliedan |
probably figure they can make more money off you in BMW parts than they could selling you an EBR!! | ||
| Buelliedan |
NRHS sold its' first EBR today!!! happy days. | ||
| Snacktoast |
Congrats! | ||
| Nobuell |
MCC does not sell BMWs. | ||
| Nobuell |
A quick check on the internet shows asking prices for 2013 models around $12,500.00. 2015 models are going for $17K. $10,000 sounds like it is in the ball park for a trade in. | ||
| Nobuell |
The short AMA season combined with low placings and dismal World Super Bike season does make for a hard sell. Especially to the none Buell crowd. Win on Sunday, sell on Monday. Not being negative. I just do not understand the sales and marketing plans that they have been implementing. Hopefully when they offer something other than a sport bike and if they do well in the WSK races and they get involved with racing in the USA, things will improve. | ||
| Fireboltwillie |
Buelliedan, congrats on your first sale. hoping to ride up and see your new shop in the near future. | ||
| Socal |
Van and Unibear12r, it's cool to hear that you guys had a good experience when you went to Simi (Tri-County). I remember when that dealership first opened, hoping it would be a better place than Ventura to take my S1 for regular service . . but not impressed at the time (learned later it was the same owner). I went back there a month or two ago to check out the 1190RX in person and the overall experience was much better. I walked through the HD dealership first because I had not seen the Tri-County separate entrance at the time, but quickly walked over to a sales dude and asked him where the EBR bikes are. Once we were over there and looking at the 1190's, he was talking the bikes up quite a bit and he was telling me that he used to be a stunt rider so he was very familiar with Buell from back in the day. Would really like to get an 1190RX - they have a red one that needs to be in my garage next to my red S1! Maybe after we move this summer - we'll see. | ||
| Pmjolly |
Today, I had warranty work performed by AF1 Racing in Austin, Texas. I left very happy with the service. They really went above and beyond. I am very picky, and not easy to please. I highly recommend them to anyone needing service. I traveled from out of town to have the work performed. I dropped it off before they closed on Friday, and they had it ready mid day Saturday as promised. Without going into details, I will say they really did bend over backwards to make me a happy customer. I am extremely happy with the service. | ||
| Bruce_belfer |
Great thread. | ||
| Oddball |
The two I've visited were much the same as they were during the Buell days. The first, instead of a couple in a corner of the dealership, they had one RX tucked into a nook with an empty salesman's desk. One had to search to find it and wade through a sea of HD. I've watched them repeatedly list several on ebay. They never reached reserve so their latest attempt just had buy it now. The second had more on the floor, 3 RX / 1 SX, in a somewhat better placement than the first dealer. They were parked around a central island on the sales floor. I did get approached by staff there after a few minutes circling them in the island looking the bikes over and sitting to see how each model felt from the seat. I do wish dealers would just put their price on the bikes and list them online with a price instead of "Request a price". But that doesn't fit their sales model i suppose. Maybe it's that MAP bullshit. You also don't always get a price when you ask what it is. That's where i'll give the first dealer credit. They did email a price. The second gave no response and a vague "dollar over dealer cost" line. Neither had any signage or poster over the bikes saying EBR to draw attention. Which was no change for the first place but a big change for the second that used to have a well marked exclusive area for the Buells before the '09 shutdown. Neither had any EBR merchandise on the floor. I had to get mine from ebrracewear. | ||
| Ljm |
Since my posts above, I have interacted with two other dealers. The one I missed because of being too late in the day was NRHS. I visited later after they opened their new shop. Nice place, and good folks. They know American bikes and have invested a bunch in this proposition. Interestingly, they also sold the Ronin guys their RX that ran in Pike's Peak. Hope these guys are on the first contact list. On the negative side, when I was looking for an SX, I responded to an Ebay posting. It was a make an offer sale. I offered less than 1K less than they were asking. I didn't hear, so I called the sales guy and left a message, and still didn't hear. So, I texted him, and another of their sales guys. Still no response. I figured they would at least come back with a counter-offer since we weren't far apart. While I wanted a blue one, they pissed me off and I bought the white demo from AF1. BTW, the first dealer still hasn't sold the blue one. |
