| Author | Message | ||
     Bob_thompson |
Another note; for anybody that wants them, I have some of these business size cards I hand out and can make some more if need be. Just let me know. Bob  | ||
| Testcase |
Well, if anyone needs keys made for their Buell, call Brownie's Locksmith in Draper. Reggie there totally came through for me with luggage and ignition keys for the Uly when the guys at SL HD could only point to a drawing in a book and literally say 'these are the keys you need to order from somebody else, now screw off.' OK, they didn't say 'screw off', they actually said, 'try Racine, Wisconsin.' REALLY. Brownie's Locksmith 14332 South 900 East, Draper, UT 84020 (801) 553-9910 | ||
| Littlebuggles |
That's cool Bob, thanks for being so welcoming to the new guys here. I'm sure you help put a good face on a situation that can sometimes be very frustrating (little to no de4aler support). Chuck, welcome! I'm curious who you spoke with at the dealership, if you are willing would you PM some of the details of your experience to me? I've had great, good, and not so good experiences with them and have heard of others not having good service from them at all. Seems it depends on who you talk to... I'd like to send a letter and see if we can at least get them to document some sort of support pledge if they are willing. They have trouble getting Buell specific parts since they aren't on the supporting dealer network anymore. So perhaps they weren't telling you to "stick it" so much as they may have been trying to save trouble by referring you directly to someone who could help you. Kelly (parts) told me about the trouble it caused when he tried to slip an order for tank decals for me into a regular parts order. Tied up the whole order and he got a few angry calls asking what he was trying to pull. He ended up contacting a friend at a supporting dealership and they placed the order for him. (this was done behind the scenes and I only learned of it when I went in to pick up the stickers about two weeks after placing my order). I have been told by Parker and Scott in the service dept that they will work on the bikes as much as they are able but can't do any warranty work, again, due to not being in the network. I hope they don't mind me using their names here. Anyway, I think maybe some polite letters might help our cause, or at least gain a clear understanding of where they can help and where they intend to draw the line on service. -Mike | ||
| Testcase |
PM sent. Looks like from the Buell site, the network dealers still exist in the states around Utah. Are there good non-HD shops in the valley that people trust with Buell? | ||
| Bob_thompson |
Just some FYI guys. I have quit even considering any HD dealer here in Utah as "not friendly enough" and "won't bother with Buells much anymore", unless you need a Sporster type part that will interchange. With that said I want to plug a couple of great Buell dealers that I get things sent to me from adjoining states and are BadWeb sponsors. High Country in the Denver area (see Zack in parts), he post here all the time, and also Glendale HD/Buell in Glendale, Ca. Ask for Serge or anybody there, they are all Buell friendly. Thanks again Chuck for joining us. Good input already. Ride safe always. Bob | ||
| Littlebuggles |
I've purchased tires from Wright's and they seem to know that they are doing, I do take my wheels in to them now, but they've removed them from the bike for me as well. I really like the service dept at Honda Suzuki of Salt Lake, they've always been great to me, though on my Buell(s) I've only had inspections done. I try to get in to Cycle Gear in Draper a couple times a year, they are really good with exchanges and finding the right gear for you and your bike. I try to get Buell specific parts from Al at American Sport Bike and our supporting dealers if they have them in stock. Zack has been very accommodating. 'Course Ebay is another source for some parts... try to find a manual there if you're on a budget and didn't get one with your bike. *edited for spelling erors, er, errors  (Message edited by littlebuggles on July 22, 2010) | ||
| Stirz007 |
General lubes and minor parts: Cycle Shack on State in SLC Suspension, tools, tires: Trackstar in Ogden Then there are the BW sponsors for the good stuff. I've had good luck with HD of SLC (and South Valley) - then again, I bought two bikes from them. The deal, as I understand it, is this: No HD dealers in Utah are currently authorized Buell dealers. The shops in SLC area actually opted to have their Buell dealership rescinded some months before HD dropped Buell. They are not authorized dealers, so are PROHIBITED from performing warranty work on Buells. Also, because they are not an authorized Buell dealer, they catch a lot of grief from HD for selling Buell parts, so they generally won't. All their Buell bikes and parts went back to Wisconsin maybe a year or so ago. They can still work on ANY bike, but cannot do Buell warranty stuff, as HD will not reimburse them. Scotty Ferguson in SLC and Chris in South Valley are the guys you want to talk to..... | ||
| Bob_thompson |
With all due respect to SVHD Jeff, but when I had the 1125R of mine worked on at SVHD/Buell for the clutch bushing to keep the 6th gear from galling at sustained high speeds, under warranty, they had the oil level not even showing on the dipstick after the work. I had checked it before departing after a 6 hour wait for them to finish and went back in to question them. The asst. service manager wanted to know if it was the engine oil or the primary side level. WTF! I have never been back. Maybe things have change in two years but I suspect it could not get too much better with them dropping Buell. Sad but true. I trust my OWN work only. Respectfully, Bob | ||
| Testcase |
I do basic work on my bikes. Oil and such. Just wondering in case Something Went Wrong (tm) that was beyond me.  | ||
| Bob_thompson |
Chuck, with a good amount of experience and fair knowledge I sometimes forget about those fine riders who either do not want to tackle something mechanical or just do not have the time or knowledge. For that I apologize and remain humble. One thing that can work wonderfully is to find some bike tech at a general brand dealer that has more time on sport bikes as even our tubers or XB's are. The 1125 series are true sport bikes. Even those working with the older Sportster engines are usually better mechanics as they are not bogged down in 1940's technology. When you have worked on several different brands you are usually a better all around mechanic. Not always the case at HD dealers. I really like Trackstar up here in Ogden as they are mostly sportbike oriented but I don't know how much factory type work they do. I think they do mostly aftermarket type installations, etc. Maybe Kerri or Jeff can chime in here with better info. Kerri, Jeff? One thing for sure is to go to BadWeb for some of the absolute best info you can find on Buells anywhere. The "search" mechanism is your best friend next to a good mechanic and an owners manual. | ||
| Brandon_m |
Uggghhhhhhh, I'm tired of buying tires. | ||
| Stirz007 |
I think the general lack of Buells in the marketplace directly results in scarcity of wrenches that know the bike. The dealers (read: 'experts') had to learn as they went, but managed OK in my case. They had tech support available to them (elves) that is not present in the open market. So - to answer the original question "Are there good non-HD shops in the valley that people trust with Buell?", I see three possibles: KTM dealers - they carry CanAm, Bombardier product, Rotax motor. They at least understand the design of powerplant and have some support back to Rotax. Manufacturer Shop - pick one. If they support any kind of race program, they probably have some good mechanics. Independents - Be prepared for On the Job Training for these guys. Someone with race background, preferably. Let me know what you find. I haven't had the need yet, so I'm shooting blind. | ||
| Nightmare1 |
The one time I dealt with SVHD was a good experience. They were friendly, courteous and very helpful, even showing me a few Buell friendly websites (incl this one) that I could find parts, etc on. They did stress that they don't do warranty work, but that they'd do all the other routine maint. type stuff. The dude I talked to even pointed out that a few of their service techs rode Buells. And they cut me a hell of a deal on the fairing lowers and the other parts I bought (which they actually had in stock!)...even threw in a couple free Buell cable locks for me. If I had to, I'd probably go back there again. Now for warranty work, I find myself drawn to High Desert HD in Boise/Meridian, ID. They are the closest ones from what I can tell. So far they've been nice over the phone...we'll see if that translates in real life when I go to get my wiring harness swapped out/Cali can installed. As far as anything else I will go to Trackstar (T*). Kelly and Greg have expressed a genuine interest in my bike and they are very honest when it comes to their abilities. If they can't/won't do something, they say it. They have an extensive background in racing and wrenching and I would trust them with my bike. The cool thing with them is that they will let you help out as much as you want or they will even let you use their tools if it's just something quick. If we had to tear into the motor and T* was hesitant, as Jeff said, I'd probably go to a KTM dealer (one on 12th St here in Og). For the basic stuff, thanks, but I'll do that myself.  | ||
| Littlebuggles |
Brandon, did you buy them already? There was a couple Buell tires at the dealership in Idaho Falls at 50% off, they had a Scorpion Sync 180/55 and a Dunlop D208 (though it might have been a 207), also in 180/55. If either will work I can run up there again Tues/Wed/Thurs or have my dad stop by there since he makes a day-trip up there for work every couple weeks. They priced the Sync at $105, not sure on the Dunlop but it should be close to that price. | ||
| Brandon_m |
Going with Pirelli Angels all around, just like my other bike. $224 total for front and rear, plus free shipping. I've been ordering parts for my dirtbikes and quads from http://www.rockymountainatv.com for 8 years. They're local and just off the freeway in Lehi. Order before 5, and it'll be sitting on your doorstep the next day. If you absolutely must have it now, call them up and head their way. It'll be waiting at will call. As I'm writing this, I glanced back to confirm my order and found they now have a sister site dedicated to street. They're not going to have any beull specific parts, but that shouldn't be a surprise to anybody. http://www.jakewilson.com/home.do No more waiting 5 days for my tires. While I'm talking about tires... Carey's on riverdale road did my last change and didn't scratch my rim. I think it was also under $25 with same day service. (Message edited by brandon_m on July 23, 2010) (Message edited by brandon_m on July 23, 2010) | ||
| Bob_thompson |
Sunday morning ride was pretty quiet.......except for the sound of my pipe reverberating in my helmet. Short ride to Monte overlook and back up Snow Basin road. Tried to have a little fun and almost got nailed a couple of times but both times saw a plain jane pickup so I slowed and passed the sheriff slowly and fairly quietly. Surprised he didn't hear me from a distance though. Not too many bikes out early and I was back at the house by noon. Peaceful, serene and much fun. Can't get away from the adrenaline rush of a spirited bike with this much H.P. on a nice winding road. (Like this one below in Idaho along the Snake river)As a reminder always the note, in red, on my speedometer "Think Smart" and someone must be watching over me..........Thanks. Lets get together soon, when it cools, for a little longer ride. Until then, stay safe always.  | ||
| Nightmare1 |
Jeff, are you doing the evening track session this week on Fri? I'm again seriously considering it... | ||
| Bob_thompson |
Kerri, if you go will you be riding the Honda, and is it ready again after the glass work, or will you be jumping on the the Buell? | ||
| Nightmare1 |
The Honda's not quite ready yet. I was planning on the Buell. | ||
| Stirz007 |
Kerri - I'm probably a no-go for this Friday. East Track, right? I should know on Thursday. Friggin hot - bring lots of cold stuff. | ||
| Nightmare1 |
Well, crap. I'm a no-go as well...we have some SNCO Induction Ceremony thing that I'll be at. Guess I'll have to try again. I really wanted to do one of the night sessions...maybe next year! I'm doing the 6 Sept day for sure though... | ||
| Nightmare1 |
If any of you 1125 guys are interested in a set of axle sliders...here's a link to where you can get some: http://www.trackstar1.com/vmart/index.php?page=sho p.product_details&flypage=flypage.tpl&product_id=1 616&category_id=50&option=com_virtuemart&Itemid=53 A complete set for less than $100 and fast shipping. Can't beat that! Better than the $80 for one! | ||
| Stirz007 |
Kerri - Sucks being a responsible contributing member of society doesn't it? We will find out today or tomorrow whether we interview on Friday for a rather large project involving a dark governmental organization. I have to stay on deck. Thought about bringing the bike with and bolting for the track afterward, one way or the other, but now too many things getting in the way of my fun. I'm probably 70/30 no at this point. Full track this fall for sure. Everything else will just have to deal without me. | ||
| Nightmare1 |
LOL, yeah sure does! Good luck with your possible new venture! | ||
| Stirz007 |
Kerri - of course everything changed and I could have gone out today...figures. Are you riding this weekend? | ||
| Nightmare1 |
Lol, figures. I just transfered my payment to the 6 Sep FULL TRACK day! Woo hoo! It's gonna kick my butt!! I think I might do a Monte run tomorrow...Jeff, you up for that? Not too early...I don't want to set any alarms. So pick a time and I'll meet you at Chris' (Sinclair on the Pineview side of Trappers). | ||
| Bob_thompson |
How about some company from an old guy that shouldn't hold ya'll up? Should be a nice day for riding. Bob | ||
| Nightmare1 |
Sure Bob! I'm waiting to hear from Jeff when a good time would be good for him this weekend. Just want to do an out and back on Monte. | ||
| Stirz007 |
sorry. Getting some lumber in SLC. Will be home around 3. Don't wait. Up for something at 4 or later. | ||
| Nightmare1 |
No rush...I still have some running around to do. I'm game for something later as well. |
