Mt Eden Motorcycles: Workshop warning

[-df-]

Hi,

I wasn't going to name names, but after the weekend I decided that what they did is complete bullsh!t.

Regarding this thread http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/showthread.php/122357-Workshop-problem-What-would-you-do I have decided to name as shame them.

I will never go back to Mt Eden Motorcycles after them charging me to fix bike, and giving me it back in the exact same condition (I mean they can't have even test rode the bike!)

I was contemplating selling the bike to help buy our first home, and now after all this I've decided to get rid of the bike (from what most people have said it should be an easish fix...but I know nothing of clutches and don't want to waste more money at a bike shop). So if any one is wanting a 2002 R1 streetfighter custom painted in Satin Black, or a 1993 ZZR250...me and the wife are getting out of biking for a while (I'll be back biking at some point, can't stay away for long!)

Why did I start another thread? Well...I wanted the thread title to stand out a little more so people are aware of what they can be like.

PS I've decided I can't be bothered taking further action against them...I'm just going to put this whole mess behind me and walk away...it'll cost me more then the cost of the new clutch to get them to sort this out and its not worth it.

[Cayman911]

PS I've decided I can't be bothered taking further action against them...I'm just going to put this whole mess behind me and walk away...it'll cost me more then the cost of the new clutch to get them to sort this out and its not worth it.

No, you should ride back there and show them what the problem was, and what the problem still is after paying,

even though you should have done that straight after. Mistakes are made everywhere, and trust me. Talking is the greatest tool ever. so go talk to them about it. :)

Edit: sorry just realised the other thread was yours too.... Hope it works out eventually mate

[-df-]

No, you should ride back there and show them what the problem was, and what the problem still is after paying,

even though you should have done that straight after. Mistakes are made everywhere, and trust me. Talking is the greatest tool ever. so go talk to them about it. :)

I have already talked to them about it...before I picked up the bike, its all explained in the first post of the linked thread...even left it with them to sort out after I had paid them the money for the clutch to be fixed.

[Mully]

What happened (in the other thread) when someone from there contacted you?

[avgas]

did they give you your old clutch back?
Those plates are worth a bit of coin - and handy if you ever pop the new plates.

[-df-]

did they give you your old clutch back?
Those plates are worth a bit of coin - and handy if you ever pop the new plates.

Nope, didn't think about asking for parts back.


What happened (in the other thread) when someone from there contacted you?
Never heard back from them after that.

[nosebleed]

The "got a text saying...." and "the hill outside the workshop" were enough for me.
Seems they're having a bad run at the moment.

[Cheshire Cat]

They were advertising for a new mechanic too.maybe they just found a bad one

[Smifffy]

That Sucks! How very frustrating for you. It appears that may well need to lift their game.

[miloking]

That Sucks! How very frustrating for you. It appears that may well need to lift their game.

They had poor service department for while...
few years ago i also had bad exp. with them, they did valve clerances on my bandit and when i came back from a ride after picking up the bike whole side of my engine was covered in oil....they frickin didnt tighten the valve cover bolts at all! Not a biggie but pretty annoying...what if its your front wheel!
I gave them second chance and took my bandit in for some new tyres and when i came back i was told they replaced my rear break pads as well since they were worn...i mean no issue its brakes so safety first, but phone call would be nice as i would be happy to replace those myself. ($55 +GST for pads on GSF400...whatever)
Anyway i go to Red Baron now for anything major....

[firefighter]

Hi,I wasn't going to name names, but after the weekend I decided that what they did is complete bullsh!t.

Have you tried calling George from Mcycle docs? He's very good and very fair in price.

[Crazy Steve]

Ooooooh nooooooooo here we go again !!!!!!!!!!!

Crazy Steve.

[Robert Taylor]

Hi,

I wasn't going to name names, but after the weekend I decided that what they did is complete bullsh!t.

Regarding this thread http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/showthread.php/122357-Workshop-problem-What-would-you-do I have decided to name as shame them.

I will never go back to Mt Eden Motorcycles after them charging me to fix bike, and giving me it back in the exact same condition (I mean they can't have even test rode the bike!)

I was contemplating selling the bike to help buy our first home, and now after all this I've decided to get rid of the bike (from what most people have said it should be an easish fix...but I know nothing of clutches and don't want to waste more money at a bike shop). So if any one is wanting a 2002 R1 streetfighter custom painted in Satin Black, or a 1993 ZZR250...me and the wife are getting out of biking for a while (I'll be back biking at some point, can't stay away for long!)

Why did I start another thread? Well...I wanted the thread title to stand out a little more so people are aware of what they can be like.

PS I've decided I can't be bothered taking further action against them...I'm just going to put this whole mess behind me and walk away...it'll cost me more then the cost of the new clutch to get them to sort this out and its not worth it.

Having read the attachment and having been a fully qualified motorcycle mechanic for 30 years I can read between the lines, on the basis of what you have put forward. Overadjustment on the cable will fry the clutch, your responsibility, your cost. No argument.
If indeed the clutch perch was incorrect it may well have not been achieving full disengagement for sometime. In a relatively new clutch ( a clutch being the basket, inner drum, pressure plate, thrust bearings etc, not just the plates ) this problem might not have been so obvious and only surfaced with a steady pattern of wear occuring and other factors such as a shift in ambient temperature, colder oil temps on startup and therefore a lot more noticable drag. Also cable stretch and actuator wear. Wear in the pivoting components on the incorrect clutch perch etc, everything that will eventually tip the balance.
The clutch perch may not have been so ''blatantly incorrect'' that it was immediately obvious to the dealership mechanic ( or any mechanic ) and such an irregular fault is not always so easy to pick up. If it was an aftermarket perch then its a sad indictment that many cheaper aftermarket parts just dont cut the mustard and can end up creating problems that some other poor bastard gets the blame for. But Im speculating on that point because we only have what you presented to go on.
What really riles me about New Zealand in 2010 is that the culture of blame is rampant. If I was the proprietor of the said dealership and the facts were as I speculated Id be taking you to court for defamation, no hesitation whatsoever.
So Id be very careful that what you are saying can be solidly backed up as dealer incompetence. On the basis of what you have said and in light that it is only one side of the story I have trouble having total belief in what you have said.
If indeed you have wronged the dealer with your accusations then you owe it to them to make a public apology on this forum.

[MaxB]

Seems like there is a communication breakdown here.

OP could have said 'Take a look at my bike, when you find out whats wrong tell me and I'll tell whether to proceed'

Bike shop could have said 'We will charge you X bucks to take a look and then Y bucks if you give us the go ahead to fix it.'

My only gripe with Mt Eden was a few years ago when I paid for a big job on a bike I used to own and got a service thrown in. I was charged for an oil change that never happened but it got stuck on the bill. I went back and complained and got a refund. I have since taken other bikes in there for work.

I have found that you give a business a chance to put things right you generally get what you want out of it. Only then if they tell you to get fucked (and you are in the right) should you set the lawyers on them.

[Bodir]

I usually take the following approach. This is an example with my car, so please bear with me :)

Me: Dear Sir, my vehicle is making this funny sound.
Them: Yes that is a funny sound and it comes from such and such. Would you like us to repair this for you for $$$$$.
Me: Yes please, but please be aware that I will check my vehicle prior to payment and I will not pay you if the problem is not fixed. Should this unthinkable case happen we will renegotiate the deal.
Them: No problem, we are sure this is the solution, we have done that a hundred times before.

Them: Dear Sir, your vehicle is repaired, please pick it up.
Me: Thank you, would you mind showing me your excellent work.
Me: Sorry Sir, I might not be a mechanic, but the funny noise is still there, how is this possible?
Them: Oh, it wasn't there when we tested it this morning, we have to check it again.
Them: We are sorry, but such and such needs to be repaired.
Me: That is okay, how much are you going to charge me for that?
Them: That would be another $$$$$.
Me: Sorry, but that would only be the last sum as to our agreement.
Them: But we did the work and you have now a shiny new such and such.
Me: That is nice of you, but the two parts are not related and I did ask for your expertise in fixing my vehicle and not for changing random parts. I however do not mind if you replace the new one with my old part.

At this stage it got a little nasty but the service manager quickly resolved the problem and I only had to pay for the real part that I needed plus labor.

To sum it up: Always stay friendly and stick to the issue. If you declare that you trust them to be experts and you are only willing to pay the agreed amount if that has solved the problem, they will either say go home we are not interested in your work or they will accept it. A workshop is not the only party that can add clauses to a deal.

BTW: I am now 9 years with this repair company and had only one incident so far (the one described here). And the service is always friendly and fast.

[Thani-B]

Having read the attachment and having been a fully qualified motorcycle mechanic for 30 years I can read between the lines,...

Did you actually read the thread he linked?
Because if you did you would have read that they replaced the clutch, which did not solve the problem, therefore it was not the problem to begin with. That already points out incompetence on the workshops side.

You always jump to the defense of those in the industry, but did you ever think, with the amount of complaints that are adding up against them, maybe there is a problem at the workshop at the moment?
There is nothing wrong with naming and shaming. It's not just a new thing to New Zealand in 2010. It's been happening for years.
If a restaurant you had gone to a few times had problems every time you went there, wouldn't you tell your friends to avoid this restaurant on account of the bad food/service/whatever it was that cause the problem in the first place?

It's all well and good to give them a second chance. But remember that this is a risk for the biker. A risk with his own money and his precious pride and joy, and possibly his life. And if they are regularly failing to provide a level of service to justify their charges, then there is no incentive for you to go back there, nor to recommend their services to anyone else.

[Brian d marge]

I have had a brand new Goldwing 1500 stuff its clutch due the wrong Lever being fitted. We told said customer it would stuff his warranty and could cause probs as RT pointed out

Customer pushed point , clutch slipped due to incorrect lever ( looked same at a distance but ,,,,)

One week later customer back with very not working clutch

When fitting parts that are of unknown make/origin one must be vary careful and many DIYers dont realize this

Stephen

[DIN PELENDA]

So how much you wont for 2002 R1?

[DIN PELENDA]

So how much do you wont for 2002 R1?

[spacemonkey]

What really riles me about New Zealand in 2010 is that the culture of blame is rampant. If I was the proprietor of the said dealership and the facts were as I speculated Id be taking you to court for defamation, no hesitation whatsoever.


And in his shoes if someone did that I'd be saying bring it on bitch, no hesitation whatsoever....... I'd probably be on the phone to fair go as well for bit of extra dragging thru the mud. You would have a very expensive fight that would make your shops brand look very nasty to the public.

[PeeJay]

Having read the attachment and having been a fully qualified motorcycle mechanic for 30 years I can read between the lines, on the basis of what you have put forward. Overadjustment on the cable will fry the clutch, your responsibility, your cost. No argument.
If indeed the clutch perch was incorrect it may well have not been achieving full disengagement for sometime. In a relatively new clutch ( a clutch being the basket, inner drum, pressure plate, thrust bearings etc, not just the plates ) this problem might not have been so obvious and only surfaced with a steady pattern of wear occuring and other factors such as a shift in ambient temperature, colder oil temps on startup and therefore a lot more noticable drag. Also cable stretch and actuator wear. Wear in the pivoting components on the incorrect clutch perch etc, everything that will eventually tip the balance.
The clutch perch may not have been so ''blatantly incorrect'' that it was immediately obvious to the dealership mechanic ( or any mechanic ) and such an irregular fault is not always so easy to pick up. If it was an aftermarket perch then its a sad indictment that many cheaper aftermarket parts just dont cut the mustard and can end up creating problems that some other poor bastard gets the blame for. But Im speculating on that point because we only have what you presented to go on.
What really riles me about New Zealand in 2010 is that the culture of blame is rampant. If I was the proprietor of the said dealership and the facts were as I speculated Id be taking you to court for defamation, no hesitation whatsoever.
So Id be very careful that what you are saying can be solidly backed up as dealer incompetence. On the basis of what you have said and in light that it is only one side of the story I have trouble having total belief in what you have said.
If indeed you have wronged the dealer with your accusations then you owe it to them to make a public apology on this forum.

You didnt actually read and understand did you.
Bike goes into shop with clutch problem.
New clutch fitted, original problem still there.
Did it need a new clutch? perhaps, but if the perch was the root cause why not replace that first and test.
At a guess the service manager, or whatever they are called nowadays, writes down clutch dragging on the job sheet.
Mechanic gets job, starts bike up, confirms clutch dragging, checks cable adj (perhaps) replaces clutch pack.
Reassemble adj cable, yep that works,
Next job
Mechanic could be a dumbass, maybe there is pressure on him to get the work out the door and dont think about it too much, who knows.

[Robert Taylor]

Did you actually read the thread he linked?
Because if you did you would have read that they replaced the clutch, which did not solve the problem, therefore it was not the problem to begin with. That already points out incompetence on the workshops side.

You always jump to the defense of those in the industry, but did you ever think, with the amount of complaints that are adding up against them, maybe there is a problem at the workshop at the moment?
There is nothing wrong with naming and shaming. It's not just a new thing to New Zealand in 2010. It's been happening for years.
If a restaurant you had gone to a few times had problems every time you went there, wouldn't you tell your friends to avoid this restaurant on account of the bad food/service/whatever it was that cause the problem in the first place?

It's all well and good to give them a second chance. But remember that this is a risk for the biker. A risk with his own money and his precious pride and joy, and possibly his life. And if they are regularly failing to provide a level of service to justify their charges, then there is no incentive for you to go back there, nor to recommend their services to anyone else.

Read Brian d'marge post. He understandas how this can happen and is not immediately obvious. Those reading this thread who have lots of experience and mechanical aptitude know exactly where I am coming from.

[Robert Taylor]

You didnt actually read and understand did you.
Bike goes into shop with clutch problem.
New clutch fitted, original problem still there.
Did it need a new clutch? perhaps, but if the perch was the root cause why not replace that first and test.
At a guess the service manager, or whatever they are called nowadays, writes down clutch dragging on the job sheet.
Mechanic gets job, starts bike up, confirms clutch dragging, checks cable adj (perhaps) replaces clutch pack.
Reassemble adj cable, yep that works,
Next job
Mechanic could be a dumbass, maybe there is pressure on him to get the work out the door and dont think about it too much, who knows.

Oh yes I did read it and also I questioned, ''hang on this is not as clear cut as the owner of the bike makes out'' Brian d'marge also understands that.

[archie-no2]

cavet emptor

[Genie]

Another tread dedicated to trashing a business.
Quick, jump on this bandwagon and form your judgements, destory any chance of decency and show just how perfect you are.

Instead of sitting at your computer how about you go back to Mt Eden and see the manager, talk to him, dont' know him but i'm sure he doesn't want to see you this annoyed.

Am in agreement with Mr Robert Taylor in that you should be very careful with just what you write as it can be used against you should the other party wish to take it further. I have read your other thread and obvisiously there is a problem yet you have given up on resolving it and instead come here to whinge. I can understand the whinge but the whinge shoud be directed to Mt Eden not to the world. Go back to them and make them fix it, you have paid good money and as another person pointed out, they have advertised for a mechanic so obviously something hasn't been right....

[Genie]

PS I've decided I can't be bothered taking further action against them...I'm just going to put this whole mess behind me and walk away...it'll cost me more then the cost of the new clutch to get them to sort this out and its not worth it.

This show more about you than Mt Eden.

[Mully]

And another thing about Mt Eden. This bloke in the shop refused to give a Shoei when he had a shelf full of them.

It's outrageous.

[nodrog]

And another thing about Mt Eden. This bloke in the shop refused to give a Shoei when he had a shelf full of them.

It's outrageous.

you must be doing it wrong

[Robert Taylor]

And in his shoes if someone did that I'd be saying bring it on bitch, no hesitation whatsoever....... I'd probably be on the phone to fair go as well for bit of extra dragging thru the mud. You would have a very expensive fight that would make your shops brand look very nasty to the public.

And thats a problem with some of our national pysche isnt it? The shop could well be 100% right or at a high percentage of being right and there are people out there who have no conpunction of dragging people through the mud. Many times businesses have to bite their tongues when they have every moral right to challenge a customers public tirade.

[miloking]

At this stage it got a little nasty but the service manager quickly resolved the problem and I only had to pay for the real part that I needed plus labor.

To sum it up: Always stay friendly and stick to the issue..

Umm..isnt this a bit of contradicting statement? But I agree that OP should have talked to them...as for my little issues it sort of just showed me that their mechanic at the time lacked attention to detail and thats enough for me to not go back...

[-df-]

Having read the attachment and having been a fully qualified motorcycle mechanic for 30 years I can read between the lines, on the basis of what you have put forward. Overadjustment on the cable will fry the clutch, your responsibility, your cost. No argument.
If indeed the clutch perch was incorrect it may well have not been achieving full disengagement for sometime. In a relatively new clutch ( a clutch being the basket, inner drum, pressure plate, thrust bearings etc, not just the plates ) this problem might not have been so obvious and only surfaced with a steady pattern of wear occuring and other factors such as a shift in ambient temperature, colder oil temps on startup and therefore a lot more noticable drag. Also cable stretch and actuator wear. Wear in the pivoting components on the incorrect clutch perch etc, everything that will eventually tip the balance.
The clutch perch may not have been so ''blatantly incorrect'' that it was immediately obvious to the dealership mechanic ( or any mechanic ) and such an irregular fault is not always so easy to pick up. If it was an aftermarket perch then its a sad indictment that many cheaper aftermarket parts just dont cut the mustard and can end up creating problems that some other poor bastard gets the blame for. But Im speculating on that point because we only have what you presented to go on.
What really riles me about New Zealand in 2010 is that the culture of blame is rampant. If I was the proprietor of the said dealership and the facts were as I speculated Id be taking you to court for defamation, no hesitation whatsoever.
So Id be very careful that what you are saying can be solidly backed up as dealer incompetence. On the basis of what you have said and in light that it is only one side of the story I have trouble having total belief in what you have said.
If indeed you have wronged the dealer with your accusations then you owe it to them to make a public apology on this forum.

My god do you guys blatently blame customers for everything don't you?? Mt Eden Motorcycles are WELCOME to come put there story up here. I have stated FACTS, with a couple of assumptions...which are clearly stated, so how on earth is that defamation? Get a life will you.

Regarding frying the clutch, it had a total of about 2-3 mins of riding like that (with it adjusted out) pretty quick to know the clutch is slipping...eh...Mt Eden Motorcycles is then about 1-2 mins ride depending on lights for me.

They didn't even put the adjustment back on the clutch, how do I know that? I asked them what the story was, guy basically said "Well, I took it for a spin and it was slipping, so it got replaced" said about the fact I had told them I had that adjusted out, he just said "well, it was on my worksheet that clutch needed sorting, it was slipping so I replaced it" and that was that.

[-df-]

Seems like there is a communication breakdown here.

OP could have said 'Take a look at my bike, when you find out whats wrong tell me and I'll tell whether to proceed'

Bike shop could have said 'We will charge you X bucks to take a look and then Y bucks if you give us the go ahead to fix it.'

My only gripe with Mt Eden was a few years ago when I paid for a big job on a bike I used to own and got a service thrown in. I was charged for an oil change that never happened but it got stuck on the bill. I went back and complained and got a refund. I have since taken other bikes in there for work.

I have found that you give a business a chance to put things right you generally get what you want out of it. Only then if they tell you to get fucked (and you are in the right) should you set the lawyers on them.

ummmm...I did take it in to them, asked them to find the problem...stated what I knew already, asked them to ring me with a price to fix, they rang (EDIT: sorry that is incorrect, I rang them actually as I had not heard from them), I said ok go for it...

Also, I then left the bike with them after I discovered the problem after paying (didn't even get the bike out of the shop as it would just stall), thats when I got told the problem was the perch...so yes, I did give them a chance to sort it...but was not willing to spend another $200 for the chance he got it right this time!

But yes, 100% agree there was some kind of communication breakdown...and now I'm stuck with the bill. I inform the person I drop bike off to what the story is...I'd expect that to get communicated to the person working on the bike.

[-df-]

Another tread dedicated to trashing a business.
Quick, jump on this bandwagon and form your judgements, destory any chance of decency and show just how perfect you are.

Instead of sitting at your computer how about you go back to Mt Eden and see the manager, talk to him, dont' know him but i'm sure he doesn't want to see you this annoyed.

Am in agreement with Mr Robert Taylor in that you should be very careful with just what you write as it can be used against you should the other party wish to take it further. I have read your other thread and obvisiously there is a problem yet you have given up on resolving it and instead come here to whinge. I can understand the whinge but the whinge shoud be directed to Mt Eden not to the world. Go back to them and make them fix it, you have paid good money and as another person pointed out, they have advertised for a mechanic so obviously something hasn't been right....

Umm, lets see...I left the bike with them for another week after I had paid and discovered the bike was still faulty...I then talked to them, I was basically told "not my problem, it'll cost another $200 to sort now."

So yes, I did talk to them before "bitching" on the internet...hell, if other people had warned me about them I might not have taken it to them and not be in this situation.

What they came back with was nothing, so I am now warning others...so get off your high horse.


This show more about you than Mt Eden.

Shows you what? lets work this out...if that doesn't show you why I can't be bothered then nothing will.

Cost of repair ~$625 (clutch and gasket).
remove cost of gasket and time say $100 or arguments sake.
Cost of taking 1 day off work $600
taking Mt Eden Motorcycles to court over this: total loss of around $100.

I have already talked to them and got nothing, maybe the person I talked to was the wrong guy...if he was, why on earth was he put on the phone with me to help sort it out.

So that is why I "Can't be bothered"

Sometimes the best thing to do is just walk away and never go back...its cheaper in the long run (time/money/stress), but if you can't see that...oh well, your loss in life I guess.

[-df-]

EDIT: Sorry, didn't mean to quote you guys there.

I 100% hope Mt Eden come on here and tell their story, I have no problem with that...perhaps if I was some dodgy scumbag, I wouldn't...but all I have done is state what happened.

[-df-]

To everyone saying I haven't talked to them...I did talk to them (well over the phone about it) when I went to get my bike I had already said everything I could, they had stated their position...so I picked up the bike and left.

No point beating a dead horse.

[Headbanger]

Personally I would not have taken the bike anywhere if it wasn't fixed, and would have insisted on an immediate refund for the unnecessary work.

[Robert Taylor]

Frankly, I stand beside what I have said. There are gaps in your argument and some reading between the lines that lead to further questions and whys and wherefores. And I would seriously challenge that the dealer is 100% at fault as you have asserted. Before naming and shaming it is well to have all your ducks in a row. It also helps to be open minded enough to fully understand the mechanics of operation. Maybe that could have been explained to you better, providing also if you were prepared to listen. But mechanics are usually mechanics, not flipping psychologists as well.
A clutch perch can be a critical item with respect to how much cable travel and therefore clutch actuator displacement there is. There are circumstances where this doesnt always show up readily, mechanics who are reading this will well understand what I am saying. Much blame miust be apportioned to whoever fitted this in the first place.

[Headbanger]

My god do you guys blatently blame customers for everything don't you??

Oh you noticed.

Lmao.

Once started, He just doesn't stop.

[Headbanger]

It also helps to be open minded

You should try that, get back to us with your results.

What we have here is a customer who is very unhappy with the results and your immediate reaction is to "read between the lines" in order to attack him.

Personally I think you should leave it up to the shop in question to respond.

[sidecar bob]

I usually take the following approach. This is an example with my car, so please bear with me :)

Me: Dear Sir, my vehicle is making this funny sound.
Them: Yes that is a funny sound and it comes from such and such. Would you like us to repair this for you for $$$$$.
Me: Yes please, but please be aware that I will check my vehicle prior to payment and I will not pay you if the problem is not fixed. Should this unthinkable case happen we will renegotiate the deal.
Them: No problem, we are sure this is the solution, we have done that a hundred times before.

Them: Dear Sir, your vehicle is repaired, please pick it up.
Me: Thank you, would you mind showing me your excellent work.
Me: Sorry Sir, I might not be a mechanic, but the funny noise is still there, how is this possible?
Them: Oh, it wasn't there when we tested it this morning, we have to check it again.
Them: We are sorry, but such and such needs to be repaired.
Me: That is okay, how much are you going to charge me for that?
Them: That would be another $$$$$.
Me: Sorry, but that would only be the last sum as to our agreement.
Them: But we did the work and you have now a shiny new such and such.
Me: That is nice of you, but the two parts are not related and I did ask for your expertise in fixing my vehicle and not for changing random parts. I however do not mind if you replace the new one with my old part.

At this stage it got a little nasty but the service manager quickly resolved the problem and I only had to pay for the real part that I needed plus labor.

To sum it up: Always stay friendly and stick to the issue. If you declare that you trust them to be experts and you are only willing to pay the agreed amount if that has solved the problem, they will either say go home we are not interested in your work or they will accept it. A workshop is not the only party that can add clauses to a deal.

BTW: I am now 9 years with this repair company and had only one incident so far (the one described here). And the service is always friendly and fast.
Which supports my theory that people only expect airline pilot margin of error from their mechanic.
Of course the simple solution to this is to charge an airline pilot hourly rate.

[Headbanger]

Which supports my theory that people only expect airline pilot margin of error from their mechanic.
Of course the simple solution to this is to charge an airline pilot hourly rate.

People shouldn't be expected to pay for a tradesmens mistakes. It has more to do with setting it right rather then getting it right 100% of the time.

[sidecar bob]

People shouldn't be expected to pay for a tradesmens mistakes. It has more to do with setting it right rather then getting it right 100% of the time.

I dont begrudge that, but there are many threads in this forum bleating about how much things cost, as there are about fuck up's.
Im sure if the airline industry could only charge what a mechanic can, there would be a lot more aircraft falling out of the sky. If the repair industry could charge as much as the airline industry, there would be a lot more to spend on training & diagnostics & when it does turn to shit, there would be some in kitty to pay for the setting right.
As long as clients are price driven there will be a higher percentage of fuck up's.

[imdying]

Which supports my theory that people only expect airline pilot margin of error from their mechanic.
Of course the simple solution to this is to charge an airline pilot hourly rate.Yup, pay peanuts, get monkeys. I always pay happily, never question the bill, and never second guess their diagnosis. I'm lucky to be a position where I can do that.

But I tell you what, if I ever get charged $600 for something that didn't need doing (through misdiagnosis) and no apparent desire to redressthe issue, then I'll be wanting my money back, and unlike the OP, I have the time, money, inclination, and easy access to the courts to try it on.

Now having said that, I would be willing to negotiate in some circumstances (say it was one of my older bikes) as, after all, I would still have my new clutch installed. I'm not a total cunt, but I would be expecting them to come to the party in a mutual way... heck they could even turn it to there favour if they were crafty enough about it... say they kept all the money for the original job but give me 50% off a top of the line Arai, that would go a long way.

[avgas]

Nope, didn't think about asking for parts back.
Don't be supprised if you didn't get a new clutch then.......

[-df-]

Frankly, I stand beside what I have said. There are gaps in your argument and some reading between the lines that lead to further questions and whys and wherefores. And I would seriously challenge that the dealer is 100% at fault as you have asserted. Before naming and shaming it is well to have all your ducks in a row. It also helps to be open minded enough to fully understand the mechanics of operation. Maybe that could have been explained to you better, providing also if you were prepared to listen. But mechanics are usually mechanics, not flipping psychologists as well.
A clutch perch can be a critical item with respect to how much cable travel and therefore clutch actuator displacement there is. There are circumstances where this doesnt always show up readily, mechanics who are reading this will well understand what I am saying. Much blame miust be apportioned to whoever fitted this in the first place.

If there are things I have missed stating, please ask...more then happy to state them...but I'm 99% sure you will not beleive what I have to say anyway so hopefully Mt Eden Motorcycles will be along shortly to fill in any gaps I can not (as I was not there when the bike was apart and being "fixed")

PS Clutch perch was on the bike when I purchased it, and had been working fine for about 1.5 years (think thats how long I've had that bike for...might be more now).

[-df-]

People shouldn't be expected to pay for a tradesmens mistakes. It has more to do with setting it right rather then getting it right 100% of the time.

Spot on, I make mistakes, everyone does...I was even happy enough to leave the bike with them for another week...but the putting it right didn't happen.

[-df-]

Now having said that, I would be willing to negotiate in some circumstances (say it was one of my older bikes) as, after all, I would still have my new clutch installed. I'm not a total cunt, but I would be expecting them to come to the party in a mutual way... heck they could even turn it to there favour if they were crafty enough about it... say they kept all the money for the original job but give me 50% off a top of the line Arai, that would go a long way.

Yep, if I had just been offered the problem sorted for the original quoted price I'd have left happy enough and probably would have still used them again.

[Headbanger]

As long as clients are price driven there will be a higher percentage of fuck up's.

Most of us are value driven.

Paying $600 to not have your bike fixed is not great value.

[Smifffy]

Read Brian d'marge post. He understandas how this can happen and is not immediately obvious. Those reading this thread who have lots of experience and mechanical aptitude know exactly where I am coming from.

So those with experience and mechanical aptitude could also be reasonably expected to suspect that irregular wear may have occured, due to an incorrectly set up perch,lever,cable. After all, you state that it is not uncommon. It is not immediately obvius to the inept and inexperienced.

A mechanic (the ones I 'enjoy' going to) might give options "we can do the lever and cable etc for $X, but it may not fix the problem" "we can do a new clutch for $y but that may not fix the problem either" "we can do both for $z and you should be good for a while". I usually end up going for Z because I want hassle free motoring.

If I wanted to futz around with the same problem week after week, and then get it fixed properly, I would attempt it myself, or go to a mate's backyard. I go to a mechanic because I am prepared to pay to have it done right.

I guess that's the problem with the airline analogy. Charge Pilot's rates and more people would be prepared to endure the extra hassle of getting the job done on the cheap.

[Max Preload]

Most of us are value driven.

Paying $600 to not have your bike fixed is not great value.

How dare you, the customer, attempt to determine what is value! Just hand over your damn cash and STFU!

Re: the clutch perch: Had this been a problem with a worn clutch then replacing the clutch plates would have brought the operation back to how it was 1½ years ago (working fine) but given that changing the plates (I'm willing to bet fibres only and nobody checked the steels for warpage...) made no difference whatsoever to the current problem then you'd have to say it has nothing to do with the present issue.

[bogan]

Perhaps I should share my mechanically experienced SOP:
1) get aquianted with the problem
2) think of possible causes
3) pick cheapest and easiest to fix
4) if problem continues repeat, if its fixed :D

[Brian d marge]

I would be interested to hear what the problem was

I mean Assuming the clutch was stripped checked cleaned and put back together ( correctly ) then it could be something unexpected such as the perch/lever relationship or wrong clutch cable Something ins not allowing the plates to separate individually ( probably lifting as one big block !)

I am surprised that the the bike was released without ( one assumes ) being checked off (or it was working when checked off )

One thing that motorcycles do very well is give you evidence of what went wrong or is about to ,,, ( Aircraft crash investigations can find a small crack less than 1/2 a mm that caused the component to fail ..... )

let us know before u sell ( maybe someone here could look at it )

Stephen

[Katman]

At the risk of diagnosing something from information on an internet forum, I'd be inclined to think that Max Preload's on the money with his post in the other thread.

I'd be checking the state of the clutch basket fingers.

[Maha]

People shouldn't be expected to pay for a tradesmens mistakes. It has more to do with setting it right rather then getting it right 100% of the time.

Absolutely, I once cocked up a vinyl install (was just a laundry) for a nice old couple. I wasn't happy with it, the customers were but not me. I went back to the shop, got another bit of vinyl and went and replaced it, at my cost. I was happy with my then judgement.

[nodrog]

if my bike fucks out can i bring it to kiwibiker to get fixed? i like the idea of it being fixed by a panel of experts, first time, and for a awesome price which would probably not even cover the cost of parts.

[Smifffy]

if my bike fucks out can i bring it to kiwibiker to get fixed? i like the idea of it being fixed by a panel of experts, first time, and for a awesome price which would probably not even cover the cost of parts.

Sure, I will even throw in a free tyre armour all treatment and a brake disc lube. You have to supply your own parts from the internet though.

[Maha]

if my bike fucks out can i bring it to kiwibiker to get fixed? i like the idea of it being fixed by a panel of experts, first time, and for a awesome price which would probably not even cover the cost of parts.

I would sit on your bike naked and.......squirm!....:drool:

[nodrog]

I would sit on your bike naked an.......squirm!....:drool:

how much do you charge to top up the fluids?

[Smifffy]

how much do you charge to top up the fluids?

Reasonable rates, but you have to drain them first.

[Wannabiker]

Would be a bugger if the clutch dragging problem was just due to the oil level being too high........

[Crasherfromwayback]

Highly unlikely

[Elysium]

The customer is always right, no matter how wrong they may be. Important leasson for a business to know and learn.

If a business doesn't look after their customers needs, then they don't deserve to be in business.

If the bike shop in question made no attempt to either communicate or settle the matter then they deserve any public bashing. Of course I would like to hear the bike shop's side of the story if they browse this site.

[Mom]

Highly unlikely


The customer is always right, no matter how wrong they may be. Important leasson for a business to know and learn.

If a business doesn't look after their customers needs, then they don't deserve to be in business.

If the bike shop in question made no attempt to either communicate or settle the matter then they deserve any public bashing. Of course I would like to hear the bikes side of the story if they browse this site.

While the customer is always right, there are also a few customers out there that are downright impossible to please and create some serious issues for businesses especially in this modern world of internet and viral emails. Now I am not for one moment taking sides here, I dont have an opinion either way on this issue but I would love to ask a question.

Mr crasher(whosecoffeeis not that bad) I have seen the shop you work for getting trashed on here and I have seen your responses to some of the threads.

In your opinion what damage do these threads have to a business, and should the businesses attempt to respond? Of course taking it as read that it should never get to this stage in the first place.

[Elysium]

While the customer is always right, there are also a few customers out there that are downright impossible to please and create some serious issues for businesses especially in this modern world of internet and viral emails. Now I am not for one moment taking sides here, I dont have an opinion either way on this issue but I would love to ask a question.


Quite right, though the thread starter doesn't come across to me as an anoying idiot who wants to cause trouble. And I would be vey interested in a response from the shop in question as it's currently a one-sided story, then again that's if they want to comment.

[Maha]

how much do you charge to top up the fluids?

Depends on whos doing the milking.

[Katman]

The customer is always right, no matter how wrong they may be.

Nope. If the customer is wrong then they are wrong.

The trick is knowing how to make them realise they're wrong without fucking them off.

[Robert Taylor]

You didnt actually read and understand did you.
Bike goes into shop with clutch problem.
New clutch fitted, original problem still there.
Did it need a new clutch? perhaps, but if the perch was the root cause why not replace that first and test.
At a guess the service manager, or whatever they are called nowadays, writes down clutch dragging on the job sheet.
Mechanic gets job, starts bike up, confirms clutch dragging, checks cable adj (perhaps) replaces clutch pack.
Reassemble adj cable, yep that works,
Next job
Mechanic could be a dumbass, maybe there is pressure on him to get the work out the door and dont think about it too much, who knows.

As the customer had been riding with a slipping clutch ( that HE had overadjusted ) then frying clutch plates certainly would have happened, and this can often happen quite quickly.
Remember there is only one side of the story and its remiss of a lot of people that have posted to think that EVERYONE including all industry people visit this website forum to see ( among other things ) if they are getting bagged or not. I really cannot blame many peoples reasons for not getting involved nor daring to challenge ( like me ) those involved in a sharklike feeding frenzy ( well thats how it appears )
CLUTCH PERCHES!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! These are catalogued by part number only! There is no workshop manual stated dimensions for the amount of linear movement that is displaced by a full arc movement of the clutch perch. Very often they can look very similiar or the same but be very marginal in distance of cable pull. It might work fine for well in excess of 12 to 18 months ( as the owner stated ) but theres also 12 to 18 months of wear occuring in the whole clutch and actuating mechanism that will one day tip the balance. As someone else stated you get groove wear in the basket which eventually becomes a problem ( and is VERY expensive to replace ) But an incorrect clutch perch that doesnt provide enough movement will be far less ''accomodating'' of such wear. Seasonal temperature variations also affect clutch drag, the colder mornings we are now experiencing will somewhat bring any lurking clutch drag problems to the surface.
When the fried clutch plates were replaced the clutch may well have been working satisfactorily, on that very day. Perhaps that statement is a little bit optimistic but a salient point remains, if the clutch plates were indeed fried ( caused by the riders overadjustment ) then there is no way he should contest that cost irrespective of whether the clutch drag problem was successfully resolved or not!
Its also not as if there is an abundance of 2002 R1s about in our small country. Anyone including mechanics wouldnt readily pick that the clutch perch is incorrect unless there was another 2002 R1 lined up against it and known to have an original oem clutch perch. THESE SORTS OF ISSUES CAN CATCH OUT THE MOST EXPERIENCED MECHANICS, FACT.

[325rocket]

The customer is always right, no matter how wrong they may be. Important leasson for a business to know and learn.
.

Not always. As mentioned by others, there are some people out there that are wankers. You will never make these people happy. They seem to live just so they can screw people over. When dealing with customers I apply an 80 / 20 ratio. Im willing to bend 80% if my customer will bend the other 20 (if / when required). this has worked well for me over the past 10 years and I figure if you are not willing to 'go the extra mile' then you deserve to fail. That said, I am amazed at the apparent venom some suppliers here spit out at potential customers. Thank god for niche markets aye.

[Robert Taylor]

My god do you guys blatently blame customers for everything don't you?? Mt Eden Motorcycles are WELCOME to come put there story up here. I have stated FACTS, with a couple of assumptions...which are clearly stated, so how on earth is that defamation? Get a life will you.

Regarding frying the clutch, it had a total of about 2-3 mins of riding like that (with it adjusted out) pretty quick to know the clutch is slipping...eh...Mt Eden Motorcycles is then about 1-2 mins ride depending on lights for me.

They didn't even put the adjustment back on the clutch, how do I know that? I asked them what the story was, guy basically said "Well, I took it for a spin and it was slipping, so it got replaced" said about the fact I had told them I had that adjusted out, he just said "well, it was on my worksheet that clutch needed sorting, it was slipping so I replaced it" and that was that.

Absolutely not, if we make a mistake we are the first to put our hand up. Its just all too easy to bag a dealer and I think some of your argument is a bit thin, Ive elaborated about the mechanical whys and wherefores elsewhere in this thread.
What also riles me about this forum is theres a hardcore with an ''us and them'' attitude. Big bad dealers against poor downtrodden motorcyclists. Its not generally like that, far from it.

[bogan]

What also riles me about this forum is theres a hardcore with an ''us and them'' attitude. Big bad dealers against poor downtrodden motorcyclists. Its not generally like that, far from it.

as far as I can tell you are one of the worst for this, every thread you come in on the dealer/industry's side, perhaps its not just the customers that need to get rid of the us vs them attitude.

[Robert Taylor]

You should try that, get back to us with your results.

What we have here is a customer who is very unhappy with the results and your immediate reaction is to "read between the lines" in order to attack him.

Personally I think you should leave it up to the shop in question to respond.

I am not attacking the customer! Im refusing to 100% believe the full story. Ive taken the trouble to explain the issue with clutch perches etc. Yes thats starting and as you say not stopping. Had you thought of that scenario of providing an explanation of why the problem is still there? What did you offer other than automatically assuming the dealer is 100% at fault ???????????????????!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[Katman]

as far as I can tell you are one of the worst for this, every thread you come in on the dealer/industry's side, perhaps its not just the customers that need to get rid of the us vs them attitude.

How often does someone in the industry initiate a bitch thread about a customer?

[Robert Taylor]

I dont begrudge that, but there are many threads in this forum bleating about how much things cost, as there are about fuck up's.
Im sure if the airline industry could only charge what a mechanic can, there would be a lot more aircraft falling out of the sky. If the repair industry could charge as much as the airline industry, there would be a lot more to spend on training & diagnostics & when it does turn to shit, there would be some in kitty to pay for the setting right.
As long as clients are price driven there will be a higher percentage of fuck up's.

Exactly, and has the problem been created by a previous owner who was price driven to purchase a cheaper but ulytimately unsuitable clutch perch?

[Headbanger]

I am not attacking the customer! Im refusing to 100% believe the full story. Ive taken the trouble to explain the issue with clutch perches etc. Yes thats starting and as you say not stopping. Had you thought of that scenario of providing an explanation of why the problem is still there? What did you offer other than automatically assuming the dealer is 100% at fault ???????????????????!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I've assumed nothing, nor have I imagined a back story or scenario to support my non-assumptions. Nor have I taken a side.

You have done all of these things with a vengeance.

[Smifffy]

Absolutely not, if we make a mistake we are the first to put our hand up. Its just all too easy to bag a dealer and I think some of your argument is a bit thin, Ive elaborated about the mechanical whys and wherefores elsewhere in this thread.
What also riles me about this forum is theres a hardcore with an ''us and them'' attitude. Big bad dealers against poor downtrodden motorcyclists. Its not generally like that, far from it.

In this case the business in question has lost a customer, the same business lost another customer according to another recent thread. Whatever the reason, if this is a representative sample then it's not looking that great long-term. The OP on this thread had another thread asking for advice on dealing with the workshop a few days back. He received a bunch of advice, I don't recall whether you offered any pearls of wisdom on that thread or not.

Some of the advice (mine included) was quite detailed, and involved a LOT of extra time and effort. Clearly the OP has decided it is time to cut his losses and move on. Can't say I blame him.

[Robert Taylor]

So those with experience and mechanical aptitude could also be reasonably expected to suspect that irregular wear may have occured, due to an incorrectly set up perch,lever,cable. After all, you state that it is not uncommon. It is not immediately obvius to the inept and inexperienced.

A mechanic (the ones I 'enjoy' going to) might give options "we can do the lever and cable etc for $X, but it may not fix the problem" "we can do a new clutch for $y but that may not fix the problem either" "we can do both for $z and you should be good for a while". I usually end up going for Z because I want hassle free motoring.

If I wanted to futz around with the same problem week after week, and then get it fixed properly, I would attempt it myself, or go to a mate's backyard. I go to a mechanic because I am prepared to pay to have it done right.

I guess that's the problem with the airline analogy. Charge Pilot's rates and more people would be prepared to endure the extra hassle of getting the job done on the cheap.

Yes, thats a fair understanding. What in all fairness must also be remembered is that the motorcycle industry ( like many others ) has a severe shortage of experienced and qualified mechanics.

[Crasherfromwayback]

Mr crasher(whosecoffeeis not that bad) I have seen the shop you work for getting trashed on here and I have seen your responses to some of the threads.

In your opinion what damage do these threads have to a business, and should the businesses attempt to respond? Of course taking it as read that it should never get to this stage in the first place.

Sure, WMCC have copped a few tellings off via KB, but in my eyes, nothing too serious, and nothing we didn't try to right straight away. There are always two sides to every story as everyone knows, it's just that sometimes, some shops may not be aware of the mud slinging hence not have the chance to reply here. Other shops may know about it, but deem it better to sort out in person rather than end up here for all to see. BUt I'll repeat myself for the umpteenth time...no shop that I've worked for over the last 23+ years intentionally rips customers off. It's too small a community (the bike community), and bad news travells too fast to risk trying. And as I've also said many times...most shops I know of are run by gals and guys like you. People who love motorcycles. It's tough out there, even harder when fellow enthusiasts are out for your blood.

I've seen stuff from a lot of people here that leads me to think they'd like to see the 'industry' disappear. That's not really that wise. No industry = no distributors = no activities they more often than not sponsor.

So my advice to everyone here is this...find a local (or as close to local as you can) shop, get to know the guys and gals well. Be polite. Keep going back. Call by and say hi when you're in the neighbourhood. You'll be amazed how things go from there. I got in the industry by doing that with Boyle Kawasaki. They ended up becoming more like family than bosses, and helped me no end with racing etc. From there with everything I learnt, I've never had to ask for a job since. The bike industry is full of good/clever/funny/fun guys and gals. Get to know them.

[Elysium]

Nope. If the customer is wrong then they are wrong.

The trick is knowing how to make them realise they're wrong without fucking them off.
Takes a while to know the trick aye, but sadly too many out there take being told they're wrong badly.

[Robert Taylor]

Nope. If the customer is wrong then they are wrong.

The trick is knowing how to make them realise they're wrong without fucking them off.

Sometimes thats like walking through a minefield!!

[Smifffy]

Yes, thats a fair understanding. What in all fairness must also be remembered is that the motorcycle industry ( like many others ) has a severe shortage of experienced and qualified mechanics.

Yes, and the inexperienced and underqualified expect to be paid the same rates as those who know what they are doing. Ergo it benefits all riders to help identify the places suffering the shortages and identify the businesses that have the experienced & qualified.

Regardless of the perceived intellect of the customer.

[HenryDorsetCase]

I got in the industry by doing that with Boyle Kawasaki. They ended up becoming more like family than bosses, and helped me no end with racing etc. From there with everything I learnt, I've never had to ask for a job since. The bike industry is full of good/clever/funny/fun guys and gals. Get to know them.

Hey, remember me? I was the spotty little herbert that used to come in and put fingermarks on all the fairings and screens and make vrooooom vroooooom noises and annoy you with questions about the most minute detail of every bike in your shop and then not buy anything. I did trade my GPz750 on an EX500 (no, I have no clue either why I did that: seemed like a good idea at the time).......

[Katman]

Sometimes thats like walking through a minefield!!

I haven't lost a foot yet.

[Robert Taylor]

In this case the business in question has lost a customer, the same business lost another customer according to another recent thread. Whatever the reason, if this is a representative sample then it's not looking that great long-term. The OP on this thread had another thread asking for advice on dealing with the workshop a few days back. He received a bunch of advice, I don't recall whether you offered any pearls of wisdom on that thread or not.

Some of the advice (mine included) was quite detailed, and involved a LOT of extra time and effort. Clearly the OP has decided it is time to cut his losses and move on. Can't say I blame him.

That is of course the case but I will be very interested to find out if a correct clutch perch fixed the problem or didnt fix the problem? Or indeed if it is something that the dealer has missed.
Personally I would have subsequently asked them to replace the perch ( upon their further advice ) and also requested a look at the replaced clutch components. How simple is that?
If the dealer is at fault then so be it, if the rider is at fault then lets hear about that as well. Is that a pro dealer argument or is it being realistic having also questioned the whole debacle from the outset that I posted on this thread??

[Robert Taylor]

Yes, and the inexperienced and underqualified expect to be paid the same rates as those who know what they are doing. Ergo it benefits all riders to help identify the places suffering the shortages and identify the businesses that have the experienced & qualified.

Regardless of the perceived intellect of the customer.

The sad reality is that the experienced and qualified are very underpaid as the market forces wont allow it. The whole issue self perpetuates.

[Smifffy]

That is of course the case but I will be very interested to find out if a correct clutch perch fixed the problem or didnt fix the problem? Or indeed if it is something that the dealer has missed.
Personally I would have subsequently asked them to replace the perch ( upon their further advice ) and also requested a look at the replaced clutch components. How simple is that?
If the dealer is at fault then so be it, if the rider is at fault then lets hear about that as well. Is that a pro dealer argument or is it being realistic having also questioned the whole debacle from the outset that I posted on this thread??

It's a much clearer statement of your position, and to me at least, seems much more reasonable than what you had posted previously.

[Mom]

Sometimes thats like walking through a minefield!!

Utter bullshit.

You have a reputation in these parts anyway of a guy that will sort a problem immediately. No excuses, no bullshit, just an ok, sorry, lets get this sorted ASAP. That is how it should be done.

It is the ones that dont sort out a problem that get hammered like this in my opinion. You can not afford to have a cavalier attitude to a customer these days.


I haven't lost a foot yet.

Neither should you. You would not still be in business if you took the high road against a customer. And heaven help you, you are now famous on here for actually helping one out!

[Smifffy]

The sad reality is that the experienced and qualified are very underpaid as the market forces wont allow it. The whole issue self perpetuates.

Market forces will allow it, when the shops with the good guys have the business, and the shops with the twats don't.

IMO - (and somewhat off-topic) it is this whole skills shortage thing that has been a major contributor to this last economic situation. People that didn't know what they were doing were in positions to make major decisions and were rewarded as if they were experts. It worked for a few years and then went tits up.

[Katman]

Neither should you. You would not still be in business if you took the high road against a customer. And heaven help you, you are now famous on here for actually helping one out!

Sometimes I miss my mojo.

:weep:

[Crasherfromwayback]

Hey, remember me? I was the spotty little herbert that used to come in and put fingermarks on all the fairings and screens and make vrooooom vroooooom noises and annoy you with questions about the most minute detail of every bike in your shop and then not buy anything. I did trade my GPz750 on an EX500 (no, I have no clue either why I did that: seemed like a good idea at the time).......

When I was at Boyles?

[bogan]

How often does someone in the industry initiate a bitch thread about a customer?

tis a bit irrelevant init? has nothing to do with the us vs them theory. Well, apart from showing that you lump all customers into the them category.

[Katman]

tis a bit irrelevant init? has nothing to do with the us vs them theory. Well, apart from showing that you lump all customers into the them category.

You don't know jack shit about me.

[bogan]

You don't know jack shit about me.

course not, but can't I read between the lines too?

[Katman]

course not, but can't I read between the lines too?

Fuck knows.

Can you?

[bogan]

Fuck knows.

Can you?

depends on the font, sometimes it's a lot easier than others :shifty:

[Crasherfromwayback]

tis a bit irrelevant init? has nothing to do with the us vs them theory. Well, apart from showing that you lump all customers into the them category.

None of 'us' do that. But how often do we see people here lump all in the 'industry' together as rip of cunts and wankers?

[bogan]

None of 'us' do that. But how often do we see people here lump all in the 'industry' together as rip of cunts and wankers?

how should I know? In fact the act of naming and shaming suggests they feel otherwise doesn't it?

[Crasherfromwayback]

You must've seen so many threads about bike shops...where the regular 'they're all cunts and wankers' screamers climb aboard!?

[spacemonkey]

You must've seen so many threads about bike shops...where the regular 'they're all cunts and wankers' screamers climb aboard!?

Yeah, but that was not what this thread was about.

[Crasherfromwayback]

Yeah, but that was not what this thread was about.

Yep. Quite aware of that. But he made a comment, I made a comment about his comment. That's how these things go sometimes.

[Robert Taylor]

as far as I can tell you are one of the worst for this, every thread you come in on the dealer/industry's side, perhaps its not just the customers that need to get rid of the us vs them attitude.

The reality is I look after my customers, you can ask plenty of people that and get at least 95 positive responses out of 100. The problem you have with me is that I have the temerity to dare look at things from another angle. That might make me a few enemies but Im more interested in cold hard facts than emotion.

[Headbanger]

The reality is I look after my customers, you can ask plenty of people that and get at least 95 positive responses out of 100. The problem you have with me is that I have the temerity to dare look at things from another angle. That might make me a few enemies but Im more interested in cold hard facts than emotion.


Uh no, The problem is that your so overwhelming biased your almost a parody.

Just about anyone of us could guess the entire contents of your posts before you write them, which makes it all the more ridicules when you tell people to approach it with an open mind.

And 3 points for yet again giving your service an accolade in a post that had nothing to do with your service.

[Robert Taylor]

Uh no, The problem is that your so overwhelming biased your almost a parody.

Just about anyone of us could guess the entire contents of your posts before you write them, which makes it all the more ridicules when you tell people to approach it with an open mind.

And 3 points for yet again giving your service an accolade in a post that had nothing to do with your service.

And Id never have guessed your position Headbanger!!!! Im sure you are a nice guy and that I could actually enjoy a beer or two with you.

Its just that I cannot see that the dealer is totally at fault and a lot of guys jump in with utter condemnation just on the basis of one side of the argument.

When I get the inclination and time Ill tell you about a scenario that I had with a customer recently, where we offered to bend over backwards and it still wasnt good enough. It will blow you away, because I would have every right to take this guy to the cleaners. The thing is not to let it get you down and to realise that most customers and dealers are ordinary everyday decent people.

[Headbanger]

And Id never have guessed your position Headbanger!!!! .

I don't have a position, well, apart from thinking its an unfortunate situation, But not the end of the world.

Don't like being preached to, so I just skipped the rest.

[Katman]

And Id never have guessed your position Headbanger!!!! Im sure you are a nice guy and that I could actually enjoy a beer or two with you.



I'm gonna blow Headbangers cover.

Yes Robert, you'd probably share a very amicable beer with him.

[Crasherfromwayback]

When I get the inclination and time Ill tell you about a scenario that I had with a customer recently, where we offered to bend over backwards and it still wasnt good enough.

There's your problem right there then Robert.

They don't want you to bend over backwards. They can't fuck you in the arse if you do that.

[-df-]

That is of course the case but I will be very interested to find out if a correct clutch perch fixed the problem or didnt fix the problem? Or indeed if it is something that the dealer has missed.
Personally I would have subsequently asked them to replace the perch ( upon their further advice ) and also requested a look at the replaced clutch components. How simple is that?
If the dealer is at fault then so be it, if the rider is at fault then lets hear about that as well. Is that a pro dealer argument or is it being realistic having also questioned the whole debacle from the outset that I posted on this thread??

I've pretty much said all I'm going to on this thread, unless the shop posts on here, then I will respond to that if required (or if they rectify the problem...not sure how they could, but still).

But before that, why would I ask them to do another $200 work when they had already told me the problem and I paid for them to fix it and it was not fixed...I decided to take my money else where...otherwise I could have just kept spending more and more money.

I will, how ever, post up my results when I get the clutch perch (was supposed to get the new one tonight but was unable to...hopefully before the weekend).

I would like to say though, that I have had nothing but good service from their sales staff and shop...its just unfortunate that the workshop has let me down this time.

[Crasherfromwayback]

I would like to say though, that I have had nothing but good service from their sales staff and shop...its just unfortunate that the workshop has let me down this time.

Sometimes mate...maybe you should go and tell the sales department that. They might be able to go see what's going on in the WS and make everyone happy.

[Headbanger]

I'm gonna blow Headbangers cover.

Yes Robert, you'd probably share a very amicable beer with him.

Hey, You leave my Mojo alone.


You'll get yours back when my thread goes off the front page.

[Crasherfromwayback]

I'm gonna blow Headbangers cover.

Yes Robert, you'd probably share a very amicable beer with him.

Hey...does the fucker drink Steinlager?

[bogan]

The reality is I look after my customers, you can ask plenty of people that and get at least 95 positive responses out of 100. The problem you have with me is that I have the temerity to dare look at things from another angle. That might make me a few enemies but Im more interested in cold hard facts than emotion.

I've heard nothing but good things about your work... and i have no problems with you, i just think it is ironic that you bring up the us vs them issue.

but perhaps you and katman and CFWB etc are more intelligent than many give you credit for, a thread that was perhaps likely to condemn a certain workshop has once more been derailed into something much more harmless, do you guys do it on purpose?

[Crasherfromwayback]

but perhaps you and katman and CFWB etc are more intelligent than many give you credit for,

You mean to say there are people here that think I'm a dummy? Well I never.

[Qkkid]

The reality is I look after my customers, you can ask plenty of people that and get at least 95 positive responses out of 100. The problem you have with me is that I have the temerity to dare look at things from another angle. That might make me a few enemies but Im more interested in cold hard facts than emotion.

I brought a brand new ZX10 from these guys ( Mt Eden Motorcycles) Mike there was great to deal with, However servicing my bike there was another story never went back there to have my bike serviced again by them, due to drug related issues, did not feel comfortable with some of the behaviour that went on in that workshop. Sorry but drugs and workshops dont mix when it comes to servicing bikes to much at stake if something was over looked and yes there was something that failed a WOF on my bike that was not done properly. That was 4 years ago, who knows whats changed now.......................

[Brian d marge]

Right three hundred pages and no lynching or TITTYS

We cant go a lynching until we get some evidence ( tenuous is ok )

but i do think as I have said the whole business model needs to be looked at I mean 600 or possibly 800 dollars is a weeks salary for some and for a clutch?

( I know the overheads )

Stephen

Email me when the lynching a starts

[bogan]

You mean to say there are people here that think I'm a dummy? Well I never.

:whistle: I was perhaps referring to being smarter than your average bear, but smarter than a dummy is also good I spose :shutup:

[Headbanger]

but perhaps you and katman and CFWB etc are more intelligent than many give you credit for,


Whoa there Tiger,

Sure Robert takes any slight against the industry personally (and defends it personally) and Crasher and Katman are both straight shooters and in the industry, but that sort of language is way out of line.

[Crasherfromwayback]

Whoa there Tiger,

Sure Robert takes any slight against the industry personally (and defends it personally) and Crasher and Katman are both straight shooters and in the industry, but that sort of language is way out of line.

Fuck yeah...even I'm freaked out by the love there!

[Crasherfromwayback]

I brought a brand new ZX10 from these guys ( Mt Eden Motorcycles) Mike there was great to deal with, However servicing my bike there was another story never went back there to have my bike serviced again by them, due to drug related issues, did not feel comfortable with some of the behaviour that went on in that workshop. Sorry but drugs and workshops dont mix when it comes to servicing bikes to much at stake if something was over looked and yes there was something that failed a WOF on my bike that was not done properly. That was 4 years ago, who knows whats changed now.......................

Dude...they're pretty serious charges. Rumours and inuendo are dangerous things. And a lot (as you mentioned) can and often does change in four years time.

[bogan]

Fuck yeah...even I'm freaked out by the love there!

pffft, trolling with the hate is for n00bs

[Robert Taylor]

I've heard nothing but good things about your work... and i have no problems with you, i just think it is ironic that you bring up the us vs them issue.

but perhaps you and katman and CFWB etc are more intelligent than many give you credit for, a thread that was perhaps likely to condemn a certain workshop has once more been derailed into something much more harmless, do you guys do it on purpose?

No I really dont think so, its just that I think there are 2 sides to every story and everyone has the right to a fair hearing. I will genuinely be interested in the outcome ( and am prepared to be wrong ) but hope that opposing viewpoints shed some light on why such a problem can often be less than straightforward.
I would also express a not unreasonable desire that when ''naming and shaming'' that all the facts are rock solid, so solid that they are unquestionable. Once again I dared to question and got vilified for it, I dont have an issue with being vilified if I iknow that there is at least some merit in the stance of my challenge.

[Robert Taylor]

Dude...they're pretty serious charges. Rumours and inuendo are dangerous things. And a lot (as you mentioned) can and often does change in four years time.

They are indeed. I worked with a couple of mechanics in central London that had drug problems and can vouch for some serious issues that occured with bike repairs. When customers are paying serious money they reasonably want to know that the mechanic is on the same planet!

[Pussy]

I worked with a couple of mechanics in central London that had drug problems and can vouch for some serious issues that occured with bike repairs. When customers are paying serious money they reasonably want to know that the mechanic is on the same planet!

Was the 20 litre container of Cleareyes in the corner of the workshop the dead giveaway? :)

[bogan]

No I really dont think so, its just that I think there are 2 sides to every story and everyone has the right to a fair hearing. I will genuinely be interested in the outcome ( and am prepared to be wrong ) but hope that opposing viewpoints shed some light on why such a problem can often be less than straightforward.
I would also express a not unreasonable desire that when ''naming and shaming'' that all the facts are rock solid, so solid that they are unquestionable. Once again I dared to question and got vilified for it, I dont have an issue with being vilified if I iknow that there is at least some merit in the stance of my challenge.

So I had a read of your first post in this thread, it doesn't seem you asked any questions at all. I read it as a knee-jerk reaction, with you coming down on the side of the dealer (as in all other threads I've read) looks to me like a clear-cut example of an us vs them attitude. By all means say you stick up for the dealer/industry cos someone has to, but whinging about us vs them is pretty hypocritical.


Having read the attachment and having been a fully qualified motorcycle mechanic for 30 years I can read between the lines, on the basis of what you have put forward. Overadjustment on the cable will fry the clutch, your responsibility, your cost. No argument.
.....

[Robert Taylor]

So I had a read of your first post in this thread, it doesn't seem you asked any questions at all. I read it as a knee-jerk reaction, with you coming down on the side of the dealer (as in all other threads I've read) looks to me like a clear-cut example of an us vs them attitude. By all means say you stick up for the dealer/industry cos someone has to, but whinging about us vs them is pretty hypocritical.

I think if you go dredging through every single post that I have ever done you should find more than a few examples of where help has been given to customers who werent able to get it from a dealer.
There is no intention at hypocrisy. I found the demeanour of the thread starter very aggressive and I think the customer was not so well aware or maybe even in denial of how the clutch problem could happen. To that end I provided detailed explanation of scenarios with an incorrect clutch perch and others provided other explanations.
Condemning of how the customer went about it, certainly yes. Did the dealer handle it well? Probably not.

[The Pastor]

mt eden sucks, dont go there ever.

[The Pastor]

I think if you go dredging through every single post that I have ever done you should find more than a few examples of where help has been given to customers who werent able to get it from a dealer.
There is no intention at hypocrisy. I found the demeanour of the thread starter very aggressive and I think the customer was not so well aware or maybe even in denial of how the clutch problem could happen. To that end I provided detailed explanation of scenarios with an incorrect clutch perch and others provided other explanations.
Condemning of how the customer went about it, certainly yes. Did the dealer handle it well? Probably not.

robert, i think you are a great susspension guru and you really know your stuff, i'll even consider going to you again for future work.

BUT SERRIOUSLY SHUT THE FUCK UP.

[aprilia_RS250]

So given the recent news Mt Eden Motorcycles has had and given they're an authorised Aprilia dealer where do I go to get a top end done for my RS 250 in Auckland? It says they're a specialist in servicing and maintaining Aprilia's and they have the highest standard of service etc.

[imdying]

So given the recent news Mt Eden Motorcycles has had and given they're an authorised Aprilia dealer where do I go to get a top end done for my RS 250 in Auckland? It says they're a specialist in servicing and maintaining Aprilia's and they have the highest standard of service etc.Heeeeaps of RGVs have been raced in New Zealand, and thus heeeaps of mechanics know how to fix them (ahahahahah). Go visit a few, ask if they've been involved in racing them etc, see if the place is clean and tidy etc, if he listens to you etc, you'll find somewhere.

[Headbanger]

So given the recent news Mt Eden Motorcycles has had and given they're an authorised Aprilia dealer where do I go to get a top end done for my RS 250 in Auckland? It says they're a specialist in servicing and maintaining Aprilia's and they have the highest standard of service etc.



Damned if I know, But I travel near 3 hours to get my bike serviced rather then going to the local agent.

Having said that, I wouldn't let this thread put you off, Its not an in-depth review of their practises, its just a single unhappy customer.

[bogan]

So given the recent news Mt Eden Motorcycles has had and given they're an authorised Aprilia dealer where do I go to get a top end done for my RS 250 in Auckland? It says they're a specialist in servicing and maintaining Aprilia's and they have the highest standard of service etc.

and the problem i this thread was an allegedly mis-diagnosed problem. You know exactly what you want anyway...

also top ends are pretty easy to DIY, just don't use the wrong rings...

[Fluffy Cat]

So given the recent news Mt Eden Motorcycles has had and given they're an authorised Aprilia dealer where do I go to get a top end done for my RS 250 in Auckland? It says they're a specialist in servicing and maintaining Aprilia's and they have the highest standard of service etc.

The top end of any 2-stroke is pretty easy to work on, it's the nature of the beast. I would have gladly worked on yours but I am now based in Nelson. If you need help over the phone give me a ring, you can PM me. I currently have an RS250 set for track days and an F3 NSR 250 with lots of HRC go fast bits, in bits. There are just a few different procedures for setting up different power-valve systems. You will need a manual for the torque settings and RGV.com has plenty of advice. If you are not sure about the procedure the you will need a good tech.....and those are hard to find. It is a lottery out there.
Have dealt with the above for service and would frankly have been better off doing it my self. Damage was done to my bike in the work-shop which was a broken cdi box through some one placing something on top of it. I was having the FCR's serviced????. This was a few years ago and the practice there must have improved for them to have the dealerships that they have. One bad apple can tarnish your reputation in that line of business. Never went back again. That's the way it goes.

[Shaun]

robert, i think you are a great susspension guru and you really know your stuff, i'll even consider going to you again for future work.

BUT SERRIOUSLY SHUT THE FUCK UP.



Thanks for the laugh

[-df-]

Well, I was contacted by Callum (workshop manager) and he has explained the situation to me regarding what has happened, unfortunatly I was not put onto him in the begining it seems.

So basically the story goes; Person who was working on my bike was leaving Mt Eden Motorcycles (hence why they have been advertising for a new mechanic) and by the sounds of things wasn't communicating with Callum so he was unaware of what was going on until he was notified of this thread. Sounds like seeing as he was leaving anyway he didn't really care, and by the sounds of things was the person I was put onto when I rang up to ask what they were going to do about the situation.

As I stated in the begining (of other thread) everyone makes mistakes...its what they do to rectify the situation that shows what they are made of.

They have asked me to bring my bike back to them so they can figure out what happened and hopefully sort out the bike for me...I had originally decided that I wouldn't take it back there...but after listening to Callum and the situation they were in, well it comes down to a shit happens sometimes situation I guess...so bikes going back there on Friday, and fingers crossed this whole thing is sorted.

The guy is no longer working at Mt Eden Motorcycles so hopefully service goes back to what it was...I just happened to take my bike in on the wrong week, for the wrong job from what I can see (reading between the lines). From the sounds of things though, they have the situation under control now.

Leason learned for me; Make sure the person you get put onto is the right person.

Anyway, I will let you guys know the outcome and what was wrong with the bike to begin with.

[-df-]

So given the recent news Mt Eden Motorcycles has had and given they're an authorised Aprilia dealer where do I go to get a top end done for my RS 250 in Auckland? It says they're a specialist in servicing and maintaining Aprilia's and they have the highest standard of service etc.

From the sounds of things, their was a bad egg that is no longer in employment there...the problem may have gone away (see my post above).

But I reserve judgement until this matter is sorted out of cause.

[Crasherfromwayback]

Leason learned for me; Make sure the person you get put onto is the right person.

Anyway, I will let you guys know the outcome and what was wrong with the bike to begin with.

As I said earlier dude...always head to the top if you're not getting the right answers/action. The owners do want to make things right and keep customers. Trust me.

Hope it gets sorted out for you.

[The Pastor]

smells like bullshit lies!

[DMNTD]

smells like bullshit lies!

How about you come in and have a chat, talk with me and I'll sort you out.
I can and will gladly point you in the correct direction if you would like to know where the "problem" now works.

[The Pastor]

How about you come in and have a chat, talk with me and I'll sort you out.
I can and will gladly point you in the correct direction if you would like to know where the "problem" now works.



nah i'll just make baseless comments with little or no facts over the internet. Besides, who'd actually want to go into mt eden motercycles?

[The Pastor]

Excellent...look forward to catching up :yes:

come for a ride, im pretty fast so i doubt you'd be able to keep up ;)

[The Pastor]

Dmtd, just read the nice green rep you gave me, Im not having a go at you personally but im sorry if i pissed you off. If what has been said on this thread is true, which i really hope it is, its about blimin time mt eden got there shit sorted out.

Other than the mechanic/workshop have the sales team / management lifted there game? Last few times i was in there i was shocked at the low quality of the 2nd hand bikes they had in the store - granted the price reflected the quality but is it that hard to keep rust off the brake discs and to clean the bikes? maybe do minor repairs on the broken bits?

Also it'd be awesome to know where this "bad mechanic" works now? I've had a lot of work done by most of the auckland stealerships and I can't honestly say any of them got repeat business. Places like Mt eden and red baron their sales team really turned me off from going to there stores / work shop. The only two mechanics i would recommend to anyone is George (from experience) and AJ (from word of mouth / mates opinion)

[Robert Taylor]

robert, i think you are a great susspension guru and you really know your stuff, i'll even consider going to you again for future work.

BUT SERRIOUSLY SHUT THE FUCK UP.

And youd miss challenging my alternative viewpoints.................it just wont do if everyone on here agrees.

[Robert Taylor]

Dmtd, just read the nice green rep you gave me, Im not having a go at you personally but im sorry if i pissed you off. If what has been said on this thread is true, which i really hope it is, its about blimin time mt eden got there shit sorted out.

Other than the mechanic/workshop have the sales team / management lifted there game? Last few times i was in there i was shocked at the low quality of the 2nd hand bikes they had in the store - granted the price reflected the quality but is it that hard to keep rust off the brake discs and to clean the bikes? maybe do minor repairs on the broken bits?

Also it'd be awesome to know where this "bad mechanic" works now? I've had a lot of work done by most of the auckland stealerships and I can't honestly say any of them got repeat business. Places like Mt eden and red baron their sales team really turned me off from going to there stores / work shop. The only two mechanics i would recommend to anyone is George (from experience) and AJ (from word of mouth / mates opinion)

Please define ''stealerships'' ? What actions qualify a dealer as a stealership?

[Robert Taylor]

Well, I was contacted by Callum (workshop manager) and he has explained the situation to me regarding what has happened, unfortunatly I was not put onto him in the begining it seems.

So basically the story goes; Person who was working on my bike was leaving Mt Eden Motorcycles (hence why they have been advertising for a new mechanic) and by the sounds of things wasn't communicating with Callum so he was unaware of what was going on until he was notified of this thread. Sounds like seeing as he was leaving anyway he didn't really care, and by the sounds of things was the person I was put onto when I rang up to ask what they were going to do about the situation.

As I stated in the begining (of other thread) everyone makes mistakes...its what they do to rectify the situation that shows what they are made of.

They have asked me to bring my bike back to them so they can figure out what happened and hopefully sort out the bike for me...I had originally decided that I wouldn't take it back there...but after listening to Callum and the situation they were in, well it comes down to a shit happens sometimes situation I guess...so bikes going back there on Friday, and fingers crossed this whole thing is sorted.

The guy is no longer working at Mt Eden Motorcycles so hopefully service goes back to what it was...I just happened to take my bike in on the wrong week, for the wrong job from what I can see (reading between the lines). From the sounds of things though, they have the situation under control now.

Leason learned for me; Make sure the person you get put onto is the right person.

Anyway, I will let you guys know the outcome and what was wrong with the bike to begin with.

You could have sorted this out with the manager without involoving a whole load of keyboard warriors. If indeed it was one bad mechanic does the company deserve to be named and shamed so ruthlessly? How much business have they lost? Im sorry it just doesnt cut it the way you have gone about it.

[Genie]

I'm in agreement a bit here...why didn't you go to the top at the beginning.
Maybe customers need to be told how to complain and get it right.
Go to any hospital in the country and they have posters' on the walls explaining your rights and how to complain, should you be dissatisfied with their service ....... do all businesses need to do this, so then the dimwitted peasant customers can get it right!!!

[Headbanger]

.... do all businesses need to do this, so then the dimwitted peasant customers can get it right!!!

Come on, he got shafted and your trying to say its his fault for not knowing the system?

[Headbanger]

You could have sorted this out with the manager without involoving a whole load of keyboard warriors. If indeed it was one bad mechanic does the company deserve to be named and shamed so ruthlessly? How much business have they lost? Im sorry it just doesnt cut it the way you have gone about it.

So,when a customer gets shafted, ends up out of money, broken bike, Blocked by the very people he dealt with within the company, he is still at fault?

No matter how biased you maybe, surly you have to acknowledge that everyone has a point where they feel communication has broken down to the point that all they can see to do is tell others that they had a shit experience. Or are they just forbidden from ever voicing their concerns forever as they didn't know enough to follow the secret system that apparently works in all circumstances.....

From the start of the thread to the very latest development its looked like he has had a case for not being happy, and your still grasping at straws to berate him for being an unhappy customer.

[Genie]

I do not agree that he has been shafted at all.......and I was speaking in general terms regarding the how and whatevers' of complaining. Geez, like I mentioned, the hospital have posters up because they have realised not all people know how to complain.

[-df-]

You could have sorted this out with the manager without involoving a whole load of keyboard warriors. If indeed it was one bad mechanic does the company deserve to be named and shamed so ruthlessly? How much business have they lost? Im sorry it just doesnt cut it the way you have gone about it.

Oh piss off, I rang them up, asked to talk to someone about the situation, and they put a person on...I had presumed he was the manager, why on earth would they put me onto someone else...and you blame me for talking to the wrong person? I WAS PUT ONTO THAT PERSON BY THE COMPANY (thought maybe if it was in caps you might actually read something for once).

[-df-]

I'm in agreement a bit here...why didn't you go to the top at the beginning.
Maybe customers need to be told how to complain and get it right.
Go to any hospital in the country and they have posters' on the walls explaining your rights and how to complain, should you be dissatisfied with their service ....... do all businesses need to do this, so then the dimwitted peasant customers can get it right!!!

Hell...I'm going to repeat my post above...

Oh piss off, I rang them up, asked to talk to someone about the situation, and they put a person on...I had presumed he was the manager, why on earth would they put me onto someone else...and you blame me for talking to the wrong person? I WAS PUT ONTO THAT PERSON BY THE COMPANY (thought maybe if it was in caps you might actually read something for once).

[zeocen]

With all due respect, Robert, there are times where no matter how a customer tries they just aren't given the opportunity to take it to the top. You can ring and be put to a different person each time, all telling you the same thing. I've been in a similar disruption over the last four mouths regarding an electrical appliance. It took me utilising my job and hanging a civil Court case and Fair Go nipping at my heels to get the email of the big-wig.

Sometimes there are just plain failures in communication and operation. I admire your dexterity on defending New Zealand Motorcycle dealerships and workshops alike, they do sometimes need the morale boost, but sometimes I personally don't think a customer has to do all the leg work and then some to get something simple looked at and/or taken care of. This, of course, is not against Mt Eden. Rather a generalisation throughout.

I'd hazard a guess -df- was trying to actually be one of the good customers and not wanting to stir up a storm, was obeying what whoever was on the phone was saying. If you have to second guess a place that looks after that fast two wheeled thing between you and the ground then something is pretty wrong. Mt Eden has (had? I haven't been there in a while) a fair reputation and I personally wouldn't have second-guessed the person on the phone as to who I am being connected with.

[Headbanger]

I do not agree that he has been shafted at all.......and I was speaking in general terms regarding the how and whatevers' of complaining. Geez, like I mentioned, the hospital have posters up because they have realised not all people know how to complain.

Cool, I have an issue with my power company, Their first line of defence has been blocking me very effectively, What do I do now?

Well, apart from write off the money and call them a pack of greedy bastards?, Is there a poster I can look at? that will sort it, sure thing, a poster.

[Mom]

As I said earlier dude...always head to the top if you're not getting the right answers/action. The owners do want to make things right and keep customers. Trust me.

Hope it gets sorted out for you.

I once rang the Sales Manager of Suzuki NZ because I was sus about some issues we were having with a dealer. Totally ignoring our concerns being top of the list and was actually what prompted the call, they had our money and the delivery date of the bike got pushed out months, then more months etc. Amazing how quickly ALL the problems went away after taking it higher up the food chain :D

[Headbanger]

With all due respect, Robert, there are times where no matter how a customer tries they just aren't given the opportunity to take it to the top. You can ring and be put to a different person each time, all telling you the same thing. I've been in a similar disruption over the last four mouths regarding an electrical appliance. It took me utilising my job and hanging a civil Court case and Fair Go nipping at my heels to get the email of the big-wig.



Mate, did you not look for a poster? should have been on the wall somewhere.

[-df-]

I do not agree that he has been shafted at all.......and I was speaking in general terms regarding the how and whatevers' of complaining. Geez, like I mentioned, the hospital have posters up because they have realised not all people know how to complain.

Oh I know how to complain, thats why I rang them up and asked to speak to someone "THAT COULD SORT THE PROBLEM OUT" Did I just jump on the internet and complain without speaking to them? NO, did I try and sort the problem out before all this? YES. Did I then get fed up and decided to warn others about a potential problem so they wouldn't waste hard earned money? YES. Did I then notifiy people that it was actually caused by being put onto the wrong person? YES. If the problem gets sorted out fairly for both parties will I then start another thread stating that it was all a bad situation? If they would like me to YES.

oh, btw, calling someone a dimwitted peasant without knowing them sure shows me a hell of a lot about you...Good bye.

[Genie]

btw...didn't call you a dimwitted peasant...was generalising and as often noted on this forum, one can't read sarcasm.

[Kittyhawk]

What are the things which people should be aware of in looking for a bike mechanic? Im thinking about new riders here.

[Robert Taylor]

So,when a customer gets shafted, ends up out of money, broken bike, Blocked by the very people he dealt with within the company, he is still at fault?

No matter how biased you maybe, surly you have to acknowledge that everyone has a point where they feel communication has broken down to the point that all they can see to do is tell others that they had a shit experience. Or are they just forbidden from ever voicing their concerns forever as they didn't know enough to follow the secret system that apparently works in all circumstances.....

From the start of the thread to the very latest development its looked like he has had a case for not being happy, and your still grasping at straws to berate him for being an unhappy customer.


The full story still has to be established, did he actually get shafted? In fact if the clutch perch was changed as subsequently reccommended would it have cured the problem? Did he actually fry the clutch plates? Until that is all FIRMLY established then I think its still a little out of order.
That I have dared to challenge or for want of a better term scruinise what DF has been saying he is now quite snarky at me, in print. Is that same demeanour how he has been talking to the dealer? If so that just gets people hackles up. Trying to sort a problem over the phone is never entirely satisfactory and a better course of action would have been to go and visit the owner of the company and politely explain the whole scenario. Usually if you are polite ( and I havent seen a lot of politeness in this ) but also leave no doubt that you want a satisfactory resolution you will get a good result. But you do need to have all of your ducks in a row.

We ( CKT ) recently had an experience that I dont want to see repeated in a hurry. Back about September / October last year we sold a full cartridge kit and shock to a MX rider. We sprung it according to the information he gave us re his weight and height, speed etc. Over 3 months went by and the customer rang and spoke to my operations manager stating that he thought the suspension was undersprung. He was asked again what his weight was and it varied to what he originally stated. So okay no problem send the units down and we will respring, when you get them back you will need to do a sag check to confirm the settings are in the right window.
The job was subsequently done and several weeks again passed, then another phone call. ''Im not happy with it'' ...........''did you measure it up''....''No''................''why not, its essential to do so to ensure and its in the instructions that come with the suspension, and with oem suspension you have to do exactly the same thing''........oh but my mate said this and he said that''.......''Remind me again please what you current weight is''....''its such and such''.......................''Ok but thats nearly 10kg different to what you told us last time, how can we set it up accurately if the weight you give us is incorrect?''.......................''Ive never been that weight''

By now the alarm bells are seriously ringing and then it leads to ''I want a full refund'' ......................''No sorry we dont do that, we sort it out, youve had 4 months use out of it and didnt report a problem until after 3 months use''.....................''I want my money back''

''No we will sort it out for you, let me know where you ride, when you can be there and we will send Robert up armed with springs and ( if neccessary valving shims ) and he will stay there and set it up until you are completely happy. Loads of people are using this suspension including several National champions and Rinaldi Yamaha at world GP level''........................then in the face of that the customer starts putting up more barriers, ''oh its difficult for me to get there and its time away, blah blah blah''

End of conversation and he then subsequently rings my business partner, going through the whole scenarios and again we offer that I am sent to a location and a time that totally suits him and we will sort it out. Further to that it was 2 weeks away before we had some Swedish motox suspension engineers visit so it was offered that they would be able to assist in sorting it out / personalising it for him. I THOUGHT THAT WAS A PRETTY AMAZING OFFER.

But alas no, we offered to bend over even more than backwards and that was not good enough. ''Im going to advertise the suspension on Trade me and tell everyone its crap'' And this extremely nasty lowlife did exactly that. We contacted Trade Me and had it removed. He then threatened to print derogatory leaflets and hand them out at the Auckland MotoX champs, the same meeting that our Swedish engineers were going to attend.

I believe that this extremely nasty lowlife would have made good on that threat so subsequently my business partner relented and gave him his purchase price back despite 4 months use and despite his inability to provide his true weight etc etc.

Subsequently we hear that he was gloating in amongst the MX paddock how he got his money back for secondhand suspension.

As an adjunct to this we have subsequently resold the suspension units and the new owner is very happy with it. Also the two main classes at the Auckland MX champs were won by Ohlins suspended bikes.

I have never spoken directly to or met this nasty piece of work but one day I hope to. We subsequently have learnt that he has pretty much acted in the same way with an expensive brand of European car that he purchased and with various other things. He owns some sort of business himself and I really hope that what they say about karma is 100% correct.

So ok this is an extreme example of the dark side of human nature and the issue between DF and his dealer is very mild in comparison. Did we deserve this? I think not, given that we were given totally inaccurate information and that we were prepared at considerable cost to travel and sort out the issue he had. I WOULD HAVE ALSO BEEN ARMED WITH A SET OF BATHROOM SCALES!

How much potential future business have we lost as a result of poison falling out of this bastards mouth to anyone who would listen? Fortunately this is a one off, 99% of our customers are very reasonable people to deal with, we treat them with respect ( as we did with this guy ) and 99% of the time we get respect back.

Such an event as this must not allow one to be mistrusting of everyone else we deal with, but it does lead to even more prudence. Dealers should never have to endure people like this and if you knew in advance youd just refuse to sell them anything and do what has been indirectly suggested on here, BLACKLIST THEM. But you have to have all of your facts watertight first....................

[bogan]

well one thing seems to stand out to me, he gave them the oppourtunity to put it right which they didn't due to a miscommunication or whatever, how many people here would have rung up again after that? I know i wouldn't then instead of just taking it up the ass (as it would have been from his perspective) he warns others off the shop, because he did that they are trying to rectify the situation, seems to me it was worth starting this thread.

[Headbanger]

Seriously, I'm not reading any of that.

[bogan]

ahh fuck, double post, and yeh, I agree with headbanger, TLDR

[bogan]

aaahhhhgrrrrr triple post even

[Smifffy]

What are the things which people should be aware of in looking for a bike mechanic? Im thinking about new riders here.

POSTERS!

Lots of em, like in hospitals.

[325rocket]

I have never spoken directly to or met this nasty piece of work

yet you seem 100% sure you have both sides of the story, which you point out is essential to form an opinion. i'm not trying to be a prick here but you do seem a little one sided when it comes to these anti dealer posts. i agree you should never slag a dealer based on a one off experience and i actually prefer to post about positive dealings but these posts always turn into 'us and them'
and you seem to always be us.

[Robert Taylor]

aaahhhhgrrrrr triple post even

I read it a little differently and this is subject to whether the diagnosis is correct ( in fairness ) They subsequently wanted to fit a CORRECT lever perch, obviously this has to be paid for. He declined, maybe because of further cost. But DF may wish to clarify that. $600 had just been spent on the clutch and only expert analysis of the replaced components will determine whether it was justified or not. If expenditure had totalled say $60 to that point the response may well have been different.
Cost is always an over-riding determining factor in how peoples demeanours change, irrespective of whether the cost was justified.

[Headbanger]

Alright, some one go around to Roberts house, take his keyboard off him and cut the plug off it.

[Smifffy]

Alright, some one go around to Roberts house, take his keyboard off him and cut the plug off it.

Nah, he's cute, and makes me laugh.

[Robert Taylor]

yet you seem 100% sure you have both sides of the story, which you point out is essential to form an opinion. i'm not trying to be a prick here but you do seem a little one sided when it comes to these anti dealer posts. i agree you should never slag a dealer based on a one off experience and i actually prefer to post about positive dealings but these posts always turn into 'us and them'
and you seem to always be us.

We actually had 3 sides of the story and were prepared to travel at considerable cost and downtime ( of otherwise chargeable time )to meet face to face with the customer and sort it all out for him. Thats the offer of a very positive dealing and an example of the many positive things that happen day to day in the trade.

Given his subsequent actions the term ''bastard '' is entirely appropriate. Up until those actions I was more than happy to go through with what was offered.

[Robert Taylor]

Alright, some one go around to Roberts house, take his keyboard off him and cut the plug off it.

Bring beer

[Robert Taylor]

Seriously, I'm not reading any of that.

Curiosity will get the better of you

[Jonno.]

I can't understand why a mech wouldn't start with the most obvious: adjusting the lever/cable. Then to not even test ride it.

It sounds like you had a bad experience with a customer and now anyone who complains is that person.

[Robert Taylor]

I can't understand why a mech wouldn't start with the most obvious: adjusting the lever/cable. Then to not even test ride it.

It sounds like you had a bad experience with a customer and now anyone who complains is that person.

Re read all the posts and pay particular attention to the explanation about lever perch throw and linear pull on the cables.

And you are very wrong, we have great expereince with 99% of our customers and enjoy interacting with them

[Thaeos]

QQ .........................

[-df-]

He declined, maybe because of further cost. But DF may wish to clarify that.

Sure why not.

My thinking was, I explained about the adjustment being right out (both at drop off and when ringing to see what they would do about it), I was told basically "well the clutch was slipping so it was replaced" not a oh, we put it back to where it was and it was still slipping so the clutch was stuffed...when you adjusted it out it was enough to fry the clutch (if that was said I would have said bugger, that'll teach me to stuff around with things)...it was obvious that never happened...based on that (and other stuff already mentioned), I decided I would take it else where and spend my money with someone else.

On a side note: I had a clutch replaced on a YZF600R years ago at Henderson Motorcycles, within a day the clutch was slipping (esp in the cold), I rang them up, told them what was happening, they took the bike back, sorted the problem (can't remember what happened, an adjustment was needed I think) and away I went...I was a very happy customer, and used them many times after that.

[Robert Taylor]

Sure why not.

My thinking was, I explained about the adjustment being right out (both at drop off and when ringing to see what they would do about it), I was told basically "well the clutch was slipping so it was replaced" not a oh, we put it back to where it was and it was still slipping so the clutch was stuffed...when you adjusted it out it was enough to fry the clutch (if that was said I would have said bugger, that'll teach me to stuff around with things)...it was obvious that never happened...based on that (and other stuff already mentioned), I decided I would take it else where and spend my money with someone else.

On a side note: I had a clutch replaced on a YZF600R years ago at Henderson Motorcycles, within a day the clutch was slipping (esp in the cold), I rang them up, told them what was happening, they took the bike back, sorted the problem (can't remember what happened, an adjustment was needed I think) and away I went...I was a very happy customer, and used them many times after that.

Cheers, like I said previously Im interested in exactly what the problem is found to be. I still maintain you should have as CFWB has said if you have a problem go straight to the top.
A couple of days back someone from that shop rang me for some service info and I then mentioned about this thread, they had no idea of it and that they were being vilified by all those that engaged in the feeding frenzy. This could all have been arrested a lot earlier even by politely stating to the effect ''hey lets work out a solution so that I dont have to take further steps that may compromise your name'' Or suchlike.

[-df-]

This could all have been arrested a lot earlier even by politely stating to the effect ''hey lets work out a solution so that I dont have to take further steps that may compromise your name'' Or suchlike.

Correct, unfortunatley I thought I was talking to the right person...I now wish I had checked it was the manager I was talking to, as I wouldn't have had to go throuhg all this, and nether would Mt Eden Motorcycles.

Anyway, I've said all I can, and will wait to see what happens before I post back on this thread.

[Brian d marge]

The full story still has to be established, did he actually get shafted? In fact if the clutch perch was changed as subsequently reccommended would it have cured the problem? Did he actually fry the clutch plates? Until that is all FIRMLY established then I think its still a little out of order.
That I have dared to challenge or for want of a better term scruinise what DF has been saying he is now quite snarky at me, in print. Is that same demeanour how he has been talking to the dealer? If so that just gets people hackles up. Trying to sort a problem over the phone is never entirely satisfactory and a better course of action would have been to go and visit the owner of the company and politely explain the whole scenario. Usually if you are polite ( and I havent seen a lot of politeness in this ) but also leave no doubt that you want a satisfactory resolution you will get a good result. But you do need to have all of your ducks in a row.

We ( CKT ) recently had an experience that I dont want to see repeated in a hurry. Back about September / October last year we sold a full cartridge kit and shock to a MX rider. We sprung it according to the information he gave us re his weight and height, speed etc. Over 3 months went by and the customer rang and spoke to my operations manager stating that he thought the suspension was undersprung. He was asked again what his weight was and it varied to what he originally stated. So okay no problem send the units down and we will respring, when you get them back you will need to do a sag check to confirm the settings are in the right window.
The job was subsequently done and several weeks again passed, then another phone call. ''Im not happy with it'' ...........''did you measure it up''....''No''................''why not, its essential to do so to ensure and its in the instructions that come with the suspension, and with oem suspension you have to do exactly the same thing''........oh but my mate said this and he said that''.......''Remind me again please what you current weight is''....''its such and such''.......................''Ok but thats nearly 10kg different to what you told us last time, how can we set it up accurately if the weight you give us is incorrect?''.......................''Ive never been that weight''

By now the alarm bells are seriously ringing and then it leads to ''I want a full refund'' ......................''No sorry we dont do that, we sort it out, youve had 4 months use out of it and didnt report a problem until after 3 months use''.....................''I want my money back''
................

I know that guy hes is working for the switched on garden center in the product testing division

Stephen

[Kittyhawk]

POSTERS!

Lots of em, like in hospitals.

The ones where hot chicks are wearing skimpy nurse uniforms?

[Shaun]

[QUOTE=Robert Taylor;1129734702]Re read all the posts and pay particular attention to the explanation about lever perch throw and linear pull on the cables.



Robert, good on you for defending this buisness on here, BUT!

It is fantastic the uselss mechanic is gone from there now, BUT again

This problem is the problem of the buisness, Not just the one BAD Mechanic, it is called lack of QC "Quality Control"

I gauarntee that YOU yourself, ( Mechanic of 30 years) would never have fitted a new clutch to such a bike, with out giving it a test ride after completing the work? if this QC process had been followed, this problem would have been found, and there never would have been this issue to deal with.

Whilst I agree that a lot of shite gets posted on some threads, this thread was started with the best intent for all other RIDERS< this site is for riders, not just for buisness people to be on, so I am 100% confident, this was NOT started by a keyboard hero, it was done genuinelly for other riders to pay attention to.

I have read every single post on this thread up to the last one, so are well aware of all said by all so far, and the starter of this thread has tried very hard to work in with the said buisness.

I JUST HOPE THE MENACHIC THAT HAS GONE IS THE ONE FROM THERE THAT USED TO MESS WITH PEOLES SUSPENSION SETTINGS WITHOUT THEM EVEN KNOWING< UNTILL THEY RODE THERE BIKES AND REALISED IT HANDLED DIFFERENT NOW!

I Personally TELEPHONED the manager there and informed of this, after I had been told about this by 2 customers from there in paticullar, and if I caused that man to loose his job, FANTASTIC, people are safer

[Robert Taylor]

[QUOTE=Robert Taylor;1129734702]Re read all the posts and pay particular attention to the explanation about lever perch throw and linear pull on the cables.



Robert, good on you for defending this buisness on here, BUT!

It is fantastic the uselss mechanic is gone from there now, BUT again

This problem is the problem of the buisness, Not just the one BAD Mechanic, it is called lack of QC "Quality Control"

I gauarntee that YOU yourself, ( Mechanic of 30 years) would never have fitted a new clutch to such a bike, with out giving it a test ride after completing the work? if this QC process had been followed, this problem would have been found, and there never would have been this issue to deal with.

Whilst I agree that a lot of shite gets posted on some threads, this thread was started with the best intent for all other RIDERS< this site is for riders, not just for buisness people to be on, so I am 100% confident, this was NOT started by a keyboard hero, it was done genuinelly for other riders to pay attention to.

I have read every single post on this thread up to the last one, so are well aware of all said by all so far, and the starter of this thread has tried very hard to work in with the said buisness.

I JUST HOPE THE MENACHIC THAT HAS GONE IS THE ONE FROM THERE THAT USED TO MESS WITH PEOLES SUSPENSION SETTINGS WITHOUT THEM EVEN KNOWING< UNTILL THEY RODE THERE BIKES AND REALISED IT HANDLED DIFFERENT NOW!

I Personally TELEPHONED the manager there and informed of this, after I had been told about this by 2 customers from there in paticullar, and if I caused that man to loose his job, FANTASTIC, people are safer

All very valid points. It does read though that ( somewhat belatedly ) a diagnosis of the actual dragging problem happened and a solution was offered i.e purchase a new clutch perch. But by that time the customers emotions were running high, as happens if a solution is not as forthcoming as would have been hoped. Frankly I can understand the customers frustration.
I guess its fair to say that communication was an issue and this is an issue that I have witnessed with some other metropolitan dealers with lots of people running around. Thats no justification though.
I still maintain that sometimes these issues can be tricky to nail down and variables can mean the problem is more obvious one day than another. Just take that as a generalised statement
Suspension settings should NEVER be messed with without involving the customer and explaining it all thoroughly, agreed. It also helps if the guy knows what he is doing and its also as you well realise got a lot to do with experience.

[Hiflyer]

[QUOTE=Shaun;1129735096]

All very valid points. It does read though that ( somewhat belatedly ) a diagnosis of the actual dragging problem happened and a solution was offered i.e purchase a new clutch perch. But by that time the customers emotions were running high,

Correct me if I'm wrong, i can't be bothered reading walls of text, but I think the problem here is he forked out $600 for something that didn't fix the problem and they didn't even test it to see if it fixed it.

Then another solutuion was offered for an extra cost?

Did I get that right? If I did I'm pretty sure EVERYONES emotions would be running high if that happened to them.

TO MAKE IT CLEAR FOR EVERYONE I'M NOT TAKING SIDES, JUST TRYING TO GET THE FACTS STRAIGHT

[imdying]

Frankly I can understand the customers frustration.
I guess its fair to say that communication was an issue and this is an issue that I have witnessed with some other metropolitan dealers with lots of people running around. Thats no justification though.
I still maintain that sometimes these issues can be tricky to nail down and variables can mean the problem is more obvious one day than another. Just take that as a generalised statementIn the end, as a customer, I realise that 'shit happens'. It's what happens after the brown stuff has hit the bladed spinny thing that matters. Above and beyond is a pain in the arse, and might have a short term loss of profit, but I guarantee the revenue returns will be forthcoming over the long haul. You mostly see only the bad bits on here, but people still talk, mates still ask mates for recommendations.

[Crasherfromwayback]

, mates still ask mates for recommendations.

I don't. Haven't got any mates!

[avgas]

You mostly see only the bad bits on here, but people still talk, mates still ask mates for recommendations.
Yep asking on KB, is like asking for your mother-in-laws opinion really.
You'd have to be a masochist to do it.

[caseye]

I don't. Haven't got any mates!

Liar! Theres plenty of people here who'd count you as one, with or without having known you for a 100 or More years. Robert you are slowly but surely coming to see that this "Particular" CUSTOMER isn'tr here to blow Mt E MC's into the weeds but to tell us(we ride bikes) whats happened to him.
We;ve recently had another thread here that sounded a little similar, when they, Mt E MC's got into it, it was sorted .As it should have been in the first place, by them and we all got to see it being done. Much cudos for Mt E MC's on that thread.
now we have another situation, but this time Mt E MC's have been conspicious by their absence.
I wonder why?
This particular instance and I give you that we have only one side sounds like the perfect opening for Mt E MC's to step in and again carry off the maiden "df" on their white charger, or Kawasaki as the case may be.
If I'd placed a bike with any firm to have a slipping clutch fixed and paid for a "new" clutch and got it back still slipping.
"THERE IS NO WAY IN HELL i'D BE PAYING FOR IT, until it didn't slip and I could pay the quoted price and ride away.
Theres no question of anything else being paid for, of any other scenario being played out that involved more money spent.
We none of us are stupid, OK DB exempted( lol, in the nicest possible way).
It slips we tutu we take it there we tell em it slips, we tell em we adjusted the clutch cable we go away.
We come back in less than 1 WEEK!
Pick up our nice shiny( it shoubd be for the money we now spend) motorcycle with it's new bits in place and working properly and we ride off happy with the company and the world.
Them/Us it's all relevant.
I said it on the last thread and I'll say it here.
Until Mt E MC's get in touch with the Op and talks are had there is no outcome.
I await Mt E MC's response. either directly to the Op, or on here, poor buggers they do get a bit of press on here don't they, but any and all advertsing is GOOD Advertising.
Come on Mt E MC's at least get in touch with the Op and talk it through.

[Robert Taylor]

[QUOTE=Robert Taylor;1129735301]

Correct me if I'm wrong, i can't be bothered reading walls of text, but I think the problem here is he forked out $600 for something that didn't fix the problem and they didn't even test it to see if it fixed it.

Then another solutuion was offered for an extra cost?

Did I get that right? If I did I'm pretty sure EVERYONES emotions would be running high if that happened to them.

TO MAKE IT CLEAR FOR EVERYONE I'M NOT TAKING SIDES, JUST TRYING TO GET THE FACTS STRAIGHT

Maybe, but it has to be proven that repairing the clutch itself was justified ( independent of improving the actuation throw ). I think everyone is naturally assuming the worst, if it wasnt justified then fair enough, but I dont think it is correct to blanketly prejudge.

So, there could in fact have been two issues 1) Slipping clutch ( fixed ) 2) Insufficient clutch throw actuation, belatedly diagnosed ( just taking all emotion out at this point ).

If both issues were so ( if the clutch needed replacing and then the clutch perch ) then there are 2 different scripts as follows;

Shop 1 Gets both faults diagnosed at the same time and quickly. Theres a bill of $800 odd being clutch repair and fitment of new clutch perch.

Shop2 Fixes the first fault but for myriad reasons doesnt fix the second fault and the communication skills and ability to articulate the whys and wherefores are somewhat lacking. The second fault is eventually diagnosed and the potential all up bill is much the same as Shop 1, except its been like negotiating a maze to get there

I guess then what is open for debate is who deserves their margin moreso? Thats a very straightforward answer, but then in fairness Shop 2 doesnt deserve a very draconian ''settlement'' of being asked to refund everything even though clutch pack replacement may have been justified. a compromise has to be fair and reasonable to both parties.

[Crazy Steve]

A friend and I went into Mt Eden Motorcycles this afternoon, Ive gotta say there Parts person is pretty on to it and very very Helpfull..

Also there Sales Manager is a Very very fit looking man, and he diffenetly knows his Bikes and is an excellent sales man..

Ive brought a New Kawasaki From Mt Eden and had excellent service...Would love to buy another couple of bikes from them also ! !

Keep up the Great Work Mt Eden Motorcycles..

Crazy Steve.

[DMNTD]

I said it on the last thread and I'll say it here.
Until Mt E MC's get in touch with the Op and talks are had there is no outcome.

-DF- and myself have been PM'ing regarding this balls-up ever since I found out about it. I usually do what I can to stay out of threads like this because they usually turn to bollix.

As you may have missed, the OP has posted that the workshop manager has already contacted him and -DF- is taking his bike in to have the issue sorted.

As mentioned, the 'problem' is no longer in the employ of Mt Eden Motorcycles Ltd

[Shaun]

-DF- and myself have been PM'ing regarding this balls-up ever since I found out about it. I usually do what I can to stay out of threads like this because they usually turn to bollix.

As you may have missed, the OP has posted that the workshop manager has already contacted him and -DF- is taking his bike in to have the issue sorted.

As mentioned, the 'problem' is no longer in the employ of Mt Eden Motorcycles Ltd



Good to see the GOOD people are STILL THERE

[Industry]

First of all, I can totally understand your frustration, second of all I can also see where it has gone wrong. You must remember any reputable franchise motorcycle workshop these days are trained to accurately diagnose and fix any problem on anything from a superbike to a commuter which they can do with ease. Problem we have here is a abnormally modified / street fighter bike, there is no factory workshop manual and god knows what has been done to it therefore yes there will be a lot more room for error whether it is a workshop that deals in high performance road bikes like Mt Eden Motorcycles or you average automotive car workshop. Why do you think you can command more money for an un-modified second hand bike than an abnormally modified second hand bike?

[caseye]

-DF- and myself have been PM'ing regarding this balls-up ever since I found out about it. I usually do what I can to stay out of threads like this because they usually turn to bollix.

As you may have missed, the OP has posted that the workshop manager has already contacted him and -DF- is taking his bike in to have the issue sorted.

As mentioned, the 'problem' is no longer in the employ of Mt Eden Motorcycles Ltd

All anyone can ask for is a fair shake of the stick.
Nice to see you back on the threads there DMNTD.
Industry, what are those drugs man , I want some.:Punk:

[Max Preload]

First of all, I can totally understand your frustration, second of all I can also see where it has gone wrong. You must remember any reputable franchise motorcycle workshop these days are trained to accurately diagnose and fix any problem on anything from a superbike to a commuter which they can do with ease. Problem we have here is a abnormally modified / street fighter bike, there is no factory workshop manual and god knows what has been done to it therefore yes there will be a lot more room for error whether it is a workshop that deals in high performance road bikes like Mt Eden Motorcycles or you average automotive car workshop. Why do you think you can command more money for an un-modified second hand bike than an abnormally modified second hand bike?

Sorry, dude, but the same principles apply regardless of whether it's been modified or not: check the symptoms, formulate a solution, offer that solution, effect the repair, check the repair, stand by your diagnosis and sort it out when it's not right. Clearly the repair was never even checked! You don't need to have been 'trained' on every clutch on every model of bike to understand how they operate. I diagnose problems with equipment I've never seen before all the time using simple logic.

We know it's not a problem specific to any modification in this case because the clutch was working fine 1.5 years prior. Like I said in the other thread, it's likely either warped steels or scored fingers or hub. That should have all been checked - this is elementary stuff.

[Fluffy Cat]

First of all, I can totally understand your frustration, second of all I can also see where it has gone wrong. You must remember any reputable franchise motorcycle workshop these days are trained to accurately diagnose and fix any problem on anything from a superbike to a commuter which they can do with ease. Problem we have here is a abnormally modified / street fighter bike, there is no factory workshop manual and god knows what has been done to it therefore yes there will be a lot more room for error whether it is a workshop that deals in high performance road bikes like Mt Eden Motorcycles or you average automotive car workshop. Why do you think you can command more money for an un-modified second hand bike than an abnormally modified second hand bike?

These highly modified bikes must come from another planet. And use completely different technology to your average Jap bike.
Get real dude.....thats just drivel ....:gob:

[imdying]

Problem we have here is a abnormally modified / street fighter bike, there is no factory workshop manual and god knows what has been done to it therefore yes there will be a lot more room for errorWhat a load of shit. You want us to believe that reputable franchise motorcycle mechanics crack out a factory workshop manual whenever they need to adjust a clutch correctly? Get real :wacko:

[Shaun]

First of all, I can totally understand your frustration, second of all I can also see where it has gone wrong. You must remember any reputable franchise motorcycle workshop these days are trained to accurately diagnose and fix any problem on anything from a superbike to a commuter which they can do with ease. Problem we have here is a abnormally modified / street fighter bike, there is no factory workshop manual and god knows what has been done to it therefore yes there will be a lot more room for error whether it is a workshop that deals in high performance road bikes like Mt Eden Motorcycles or you average automotive car workshop. Why do you think you can command more money for an un-modified second hand bike than an abnormally modified second hand bike?


All you have managed to high light here is, That the mechanic doing the work originally was an incompitent fool!

The operation of the clutch starts at the leaver, so that is where the problems are checked for in the first place, bloody simple really.

[Headbanger]

I don't. Haven't got any mates!

You can have mine, They're a pack of bastards.

[Ryder]

I won't take my bikes to mt eden anymore...they f'd me over big time with a vehicle i bought there brand new. the fat bastard that used to be workshop manager set up the bike wrong and it was running rough, cutting out and the oil mix was wrong. i took it back 3 or 4 times and they just said your a girl you dont know what youre on about theres nothing wrong with it. a couple of the times it went in with a full tank of gas and was returned to me completely empty with gas shop next door closed cos of time of night! ...oh yea and not to mention the extra 200 odd ks that were suddenly on the clock that werent before! Mt eden refused point blank to fix the problem and i ended up going to red baron where they fixed it and told me the verdict. it cost $200+ to get fixed!!! it should have been done under warranty cover by mt eden! they are absolutely shocking down there! i even know someone who had an alarm installed there by someone there down in the workshop and the f'kn muppet hot glued the wiring onto the frame! he the drilled a hole in the bikes clocks and pushed the rest through there! all wiring was the further connected from bike to alarm with masking tape! i kid you not! incompetent does not even begin to describe them!

[avgas]

Problem we have here is a abnormally modified / street fighter bike, there is no factory workshop manual and god knows what has been done to it
Diddims. Can't fix a GSXR1100 with a Wiesco kit?
I aren't a mechanic, but right now I can tell you I can fix a modified bike............perhaps the industry is full of morons and has pathetic training programs.

[Crasherfromwayback]

I aren't a mechanic, but right now I can tell you I can fix a modified bike............perhaps the industry is full of morons

Not in my experience it's not. Maybe you've simply got your panties in a bunch over the years. Not sure I've ever seen a positive post from you about anything. What do you do...and how good are you at it?

[Wannabiker]

So....a bit of time has gone by now....did the clutch get fixed, and what was the final verdict as to the fault?

[Damon]

Good on you! surely any mechanic would look at the simplest and cheapest options first, not just to save you money but save them time as well, to roll in and replace the most expensive bits first and then not even test them goes to show you they don't give a flying fuck.

Mt Eden have a huge history of letting customers down and sadly their stories just keep on coming, the best thing you can do is cut your losses and tell as many people as you can to help others avoid the same trouble, well done.

[bluebird]

Thanks for the warning.

[Rogue Rider]

Hi,

I wasn't going to name names, but after the weekend I decided that what they did is complete bullsh!t.

Regarding this thread http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/showthread.php/122357-Workshop-problem-What-would-you-do I have decided to name as shame them.

I will never go back to Mt Eden Motorcycles after them charging me to fix bike, and giving me it back in the exact same condition (I mean they can't have even test rode the bike!)

I was contemplating selling the bike to help buy our first home, and now after all this I've decided to get rid of the bike (from what most people have said it should be an easish fix...but I know nothing of clutches and don't want to waste more money at a bike shop). So if any one is wanting a 2002 R1 streetfighter custom painted in Satin Black, or a 1993 ZZR250...me and the wife are getting out of biking for a while (I'll be back biking at some point, can't stay away for long!)

Why did I start another thread? Well...I wanted the thread title to stand out a little more so people are aware of what they can be like.

PS I've decided I can't be bothered taking further action against them...I'm just going to put this whole mess behind me and walk away...it'll cost me more then the cost of the new clutch to get them to sort this out and its not worth it.

Shame on you Mt Eden MC, if this is true, and you won't remedy the situation or refund the waste of time and money, not to mention the inconvenience of not having a bike. Then you should be taken to small claims to resolve. There is always 2 sidess to a story, however In this day and age, workshops can't afford crap publicity like this. I have had similar experiences, though, I won't take no for an answer. I will have it out in the shop or else, and I will win. There is a word, compromise, that is often needed, and a level head. I have a good way of throwing toys out of my cot, and making people accountable. In saying that though, it needs to be fair both ways.
You deserve your money back, and problem fixed. They should reverse the clutch parts, or at least offer you them at cost at a minimum.... you didn't need them, you shouldn't have to pay for them. They should want to do this in the first instance anyway, When you explained about your bike, you were clear about the issue, its not rocket science on that one, fairly straight forward issue, even for an apprentice.......
They should have road tested the bike, every workshop should do this as a mandatory practice, what were they thinking.... one will never know. Come on Mt Eden MC, sort it out, do the proper thing.......

[-df-]

Seeing as people are asking, they are currently waiting on a part from Yamaha, which looks like its ex Japan so will take a little while to get here.

[madbikeboy]

There was a hot chick who worked at Mt Eden Motorcycles, but I understand she's gone now. She was hot and good at her job.

[Elysium]

There was a hot chick who worked at Mt Eden Motorcycles, but I understand she's gone now. She was hot and good at her job.

Maybe got sick of you guys chatting her up perhaps? :laugh:

[madbikeboy]

I never tried... Wish I had of though :)

[Shaun]

OK MT EDEN> I Will take the roll of work shop manager off your hands, for 3 days a week

[madbikeboy]

Have you considered taking up beating yourself with a big stick as a past-time instead?