| Author | Message | ||
     Ft_bstrd |
http://www.badweatherbikers.com/buell/messages/17/ 17381.html?1162186698 | ||
| Ft_bstrd |
C'mon guys. This is your chance to change the paradigm of how Buells are marketed and supported. Please click the thread and voice your opinions on how service and sales can be improved. Folks are watching. | ||
| Diablobrian |
I know I've deposited my $.02 a couple of times so far  They can't fix what they don't know is broken. On the flip side of that if you have the idea that will fix the problem what good does it do to keep it to yourself? But please please please keep it nice and civilized. It is in Court's virtual living room after all. | ||
| Ft_bstrd |
So far it has been. Please everyone, keep it constructive. Imagine that it might be seen by Erik himself, because it might. We have the opportunity to change the landscape of Buell into what WE want. In the last 25 years, Buell Motor Company has never been on the radar of more people than it is right now. With good notoriety, come profits, with profits come power and the capital to change what you don't like. Let's help Buell to spend it's capital wisely on what WE want most and what will ensure another 25 years of great bikes!!!!! Thanks. | ||
| Cochise |
On the flip side of that if you have the idea that will fix the problem what good does it do to keep it to yourself? It depends, I won't say some of MY ideas, because I want to use such ideas when I get in there | ||
| Brineusaf |
My prediction is that things will change regardless, especially when the XBRR gets more podiums and starts bringing more attention to Buell. Then the dealers will realize that Buell's are as valuable as any other bike (within means). I think the dealer-base will begin to improve, but I doubt it will have anything to do with anyone on here. Seriously... you don't think the Company realizes they have a dealer problem? But... if your wasting time typing something makes you feel better for getting something off of your chest than so be it (I feel better already). | ||
| Ft_bstrd |
Nice.  | ||
| Daves |
"but I doubt it will have anything to do with anyone on here" I wouldn't be too sure about that, if I were you.  | ||
| Diablobrian |
Cochise: I myself have employment at BMC in my future goals. think of it this way, how better to get noticed by the people that matter than showing that you have the ability to solve problems in an elegant fashion? Erik is not one of those people that forgets those that help him from what I've seen. He has pull in deciding who gets hired by HR. Just something to chew on. I myself have a long road ahead of me still. So if you are closer it may behoove you to try to contact Erik directly with good ideas. I have a lot of school in front of me before I submit my application, but I am on a MISSION: I will be an Elf! (Message edited by diablobrian on October 31, 2006) | ||
| Ft_bstrd |
Keep the input on the "Customer Service" thread coming! Unlike other manufacturers, Buell has a strangely innate ability and desire to glean ideas from us. I seriously doubt that the president of Honda Motorcycles USA frequents the bulletin boards as much as Erik and others do here. We are unique. Buell is unique. | ||
| Etennuly |
I did what I could, I've run low on ink, thank you. | ||
| Ft_bstrd |
I did what I could, I've run low on ink, thank you. I hear that happens as you get older. | ||
| Brineusaf |
I wouldn't be too sure about that, if I were you Daves - you are a cut above. You aren't helping other dealerships though, you are just setting an unobtainable standard  What "proof" to we have that anyone who monitors this is actual BMC material... an anony tag? not sufficient enough... Daves realizes the potential of Buell Sales (don't kid us Dave... you have to make a living) and makes the most of it, and all while maintaining excellence in everything (or near everything). I like the direction (and speed) BMC is going. I agree they need a more dedicated dealer base. But I think that in time the sore dealers will be rid of the "burden" and the proficient dealers will flourish. | ||
| Daves |
I wouldn't be too sure about that, if I were you "Daves - you are a cut above. You aren't helping other dealerships though, you are just setting an unobtainable standard" Thank you Brine. But, if you don't think it rubs off on other dealerships and that the factory is not aware, you would be mistaken. The Buell opportunity is wide open for ANY Buell dealership. They just have to Want to do it. The directions are there for all to see. The want, seems to be the problem? "What "proof" to we have that anyone who monitors this is actual BMC material... an anony tag? not sufficient enough..." You'll just have to trust me on this one. I'm not naming names "Daves realizes the potential of Buell Sales (don't kid us Dave... you have to make a living) and makes the most of it, and all while maintaining excellence in everything (or near everything)." Thank you again. Yes, I make a comfortable living selling Buells(and HDs) and Buell parts. "I like the direction (and speed) BMC is going. I agree they need a more dedicated dealer base. But I think that in time the sore dealers will be rid of the "burden" and the proficient dealers will flourish." Me too! Things are getting better. | ||
| Brineusaf |
if you don't think it rubs off on other dealerships and that the factory is not aware, you would be mistaken I think the factory is aware - hence my comment before "Seriously... you don't think the Company realizes they have a dealer problem?" Yet I don't think it is rubbing off on other dealerships. In fact, I feel that my dealership (a very good one) would be interested in Buell if we didn't order from vendors such as yourself and AL, and Stone Mountain (Phil). By our avoiding them and doing business with sponsors we are supporting the board, but then as far as they are concerned there is no interest in Buells (they don't see it). Some many anony's post with "data" and then give others attitude I doubt it would be someone in a reputable position within BMC. If Erik were to post on here, it would be this site's Holy Grail... and nobody would kid around and argue. Everyone would be down to business with formulated ideas and such. Plus how good would that look... BMC listening to customers through the internet. Of course, Erik wouldn't be able to just fix everything - lots of things would still have to be "channelled". If he is truly watching... then why not take it a step further? Someone posts as anony on here... I don't pay too much attention unless I find reason too (them being polite, courteous, and actually having facts/data). | ||
| Sgthigg |
How to improve? Hold them accountable for they're actions or lack there of...period | ||
| Daves |
Brine, You are right, the factory is aware there is a problem. And they are working on it. Slow work for sure but it is happening. As far as rubbing off on other dealers. Have you noticed how many dealers are sponsors here now as compared to 2 or 3 years ago? Those dealers have decided to get into the Buell business and are committing time,resources and effort into their Buell business both here and in their stores. Good for them! Good for Buell riders! | ||
| Eboos |
I really doubt that anyone is buying from Dave or others without having given their local dealers a chance first. The local dealers just continue to disappoint. I am working very hard to change one, and after our annual inventory in 2 weeks, we will start to get our accessories on board. Dave has been important and helpful in many different ways. One of them is that he willingly gives out information on how to improve your own dealership, where to source certain things, and what to carry. Dave has also been a proven success, and shows that the brand can be profitable. This is important when pitching ideas to managers that may not be enthusiastic about Buell. | ||
| Cochise |
If Erik were to post on here, it would be this site's Holy Grail... and nobody would kid around and argue. Everyone would be down to business with formulated ideas and such. Plus how good would that look... BMC listening to customers through the internet. Of course, Erik wouldn't be able to just fix everything - lots of things would still have to be "channelled". If he is truly watching... then why not take it a step further? I am pretty sure Erik DOES post on here, he is just smart enough to post under an assumed name. If he used his real name he would be inundated with all kinds of "weird" questions and way too many un-important emails and "ideas". | ||
| 2_spuds |
There are some GREAT dealers out there. I've certainly had my share of problems with the ULY but I've had nothing less than spectacular support from the three dealers that I've delt with. I bought the bike from Brians HD in Langhorne Pa. and they have bent over backwards to help in every way. On a trip to Ak. I had problems with the front rotor and Ancorage HD took it in and replaced the rotor, in less than 2 hrs I was on the road again. In BC on the Alcan the rear wheel bearings disintegrated leaving me stranded in the middle of nowhere.I called the buell towing service and I'am still waiting for their return call LOL. Then I called AAA, they didn't have any carriers in the area. Then I called Prince George HD, 800 klms away, ten minutes before closing and this Angel [Karen] answers and says call me back in 15 mins. I called her back and she had arranged for a tow from Ft Nelson to pick me up.The next morning she arranged to have a local trucking co. ship it to them for repair. She also gave me the numbers for the local bus station and a hotel in PG. The bike arrived there in the afternoon,on a friday, before a three day holiday weekend. They were very busy and working shorthanded and still had me back on the road the same day.They are some GREAT professional people and I plan on visiting them next year. [not on the ULY ] This winter the CHEAP tiwan bearings will be replaced with some quality ones. I blame the problems I've had on the bean counters at HD, not Buell. | ||
| Court |
>>>>then why not take it a step further? Some here recall when Erik and I used to participate in daily internet banter. It's terribly time consuming and yields very little of value. Don't get me wrong, there is a lot of good and valuable information here. Folks at Buell and HD monitor the site closely. But participation carries a myriad of pitfalls. Some have lost jobs over it. On the brighter side, I saved and printed most of the old threads and I will say it was "spirited" debate. Some recall that I got egged into my 37 state ride on a Buell by Steve Beigler who runs an East Coast recording studio. | ||
| Daves |
Betcha you can't do it on a Uly Court | ||
| Ft_bstrd |
Dave, I don't really think Ulys are good for long distances, are they?  | ||
| Daves |
No, they suck and Court is too old to make a trip like that again  | ||
| Court |
You are likely right . . . my favorite quote, from an article written about my LAP OF AMERICA was "he looks like he could pick this bike up and carry it". Distance riding is lots more than jumping on the bike and heading out. I snagged a young stud named Mike Evans and trained 3 times a week for 7 months before I left. I also had a set of "mini-sizes" I'd do while riding. It helps, doing a 5AM to 10PM gig, to keep the blood stirred. I confess to making liberal use of music as well. I have never ridden a Ulysses but am intrigued bythe many glowing reports. I **think** I could get on one in NYC and ride to SanFran but I am likely suffering from optimism run wild given my advancing years. Erik might be able to do it . . . but he's not talking to me after I reminded him he was within 5 years of being able to draw social security. I must learn to respect my elders. | ||
| Daves |
Oh come on Court, take the bait! Take Erik along, just tell him you're going for a little ride. | ||
| Ft_bstrd |
If you run, Erik will follow!  It would give us all a chance to ride with you and Erik as you rumble through town. | ||
| Brineusaf |
Wow... Sorry for the delay in my posting. I just moved into a different house, and only had access at work until they turned the internet on here at the house. I was waiting for Court to pounce on this one... I don't DOUBT Erik has posted on here. I just cannot recall a recent post suitable to tag his name to it. I think the Annony option is getting overused by some people. I would personally like to meet Erik, as most would who haven't yet. But my funds are limited... and I cannot ride to BMC. HINT HINT ERIK Back to the basic - The inappropriate dealers will/are getting weeded out, and I think only the most prominent establishments will be chosen. | ||
| Bigdaddy |
I think the Annony option is getting overused by some people. Staying with this thread,,,,"that would be an inaccurate statement." G2 | ||
| Court |
>>>I would personally like to meet Erik Part of what makes Buell so gosh darn fun is that he would, quite genuinely be JUST as excited to meet you. Still in Germany? It's a doable deal. | ||
| Brineusaf |
haha, yeah still in germany. and will be for a LONG LONG TIME I would like to come to a homecoming, but I don't see that in my future for a long while yet. I'm content knowing he's willing to meet and talk with his consumers. | ||
| Nutsnbolt |
Yeah, that seems to be more than others are willing to do. Though, I don't know anyone who has ever met him, personally. I just hate seeing a great company go the wrong way, when it could do so much better. Mark | ||
| Ft_bstrd |
Nuts, It ain't going the wrong way. What are you talking about? Buell is on the edge of greatness! I'm not drinking the cool-aide or anything, but when was the last time you picked up a CW or other magazine and saw an article about Buell in almost EVERY issue. None of the articles is bad. None of the long term tester articles is bad. You really are a "frames half empty" kinda guy. | ||
| Nutsnbolt |
Right, I agree with you. I see these things. My point is about trying to get Buell to be a product that the average non bueller knows about. I think that Buell is trying to get there and has the tools to accomplish said goal but is just applying it in the wrong way. Don't get me wrong. I love everything Buell and read up as much as I can abou it. But, Im looking for it. I think that Buell has a very devoted fan base. But, that's what it is. A fan base. What they need to work on is expanding their base. That's where I feel like they MIGHT be falling short for various reasons, all which are fixable. Mark | ||
| Nutsnbolt |
Though, I do like the "frames half empty" analogy. It's rather clever, and I am going to use it from this day forward. Just to give you advance notice. It's a good one. I like it. | ||
| Ft_bstrd |
As long as it's suitably footnoted!  | ||
| Thespive |
Court I have a City with bags and some vacation time, when you going? --Sean | ||
| Panhead_dan |
I would quit my job to make that ride. | ||
| Ft_bstrd |
Bump. Keep 'em coming! |
