Me, Red Baron and 6 month anniversary

[OutLander]

Hi everyone,

Next week on Monday I will celebrate 6 month anniversary of my bike repair. :soon:
I crashed it in March and the only actual damage was broken rear break pedal, apart from them I scratched plastic and frame a little bit. I called my insurance company and they suggested to take my bike to official dealer. I have an Aprilia bike and the only dealer I found was RB Auckland so I took my bike there. And it is still in there workshop...:wacko:

As you can imagine, there were a lot of calls and promises, reasons and excuses... and the outcome is nothing. My bike is still in the same condition as it was in March.
I think I will bake a cake and deliver it to their manager as I want to share my happiness of a satisfied customer with them.
What do you think about that?
Could you please suggest any other workshop that actually fixes bikes?

[strandedinnz]

RB managed to remove themselves from Christmas card list as well for the poor service they did on my bike (missing O-rings etc) and then followed up by fobbing me off with excuses about how the missing o-rings were not really required ..... ummmmmmmmmm excuse me ???

I've heard good things about Motorcyle Doctors (http://www.motorcycle-doctors.co.nz/) not used them myself yet though.

[Hitcher]

Your bike is an Aprilia. The New Zealand agent/distributor for Aprilia cares not a shit about anything other than selling new motorcycles. You may well find that Red Baron is waiting on parts to be delivered through official supply channels, which as an officially-sanctioned Aprilia dealer they are probably required to do. If that is the case, then I recommend taking up the cudgels against Aprilia New Zealand Ltd (part of the Triumph/BMW/Aprilia/Moto Guzzi empire). If that doesn't work, then get Red Baron to order the parts they need directly from AF1 Racing in Texas. These will be delivered within five working days.

[Ender EnZed]

What does your insurance company have to say about the situation?

[imdying]

I would have thought the contract was with the insurance company? Tell them you're off to the ombudsman? Maybe PM Oscar on here?

[OutLander]

Your bike is an Aprilia. The New Zealand agent/distributor for Aprilia cares not a shit about anything other than selling new motorcycles. You may well find that Red Baron is waiting on parts to be delivered through official supply channels, which as an officially-sanctioned Aprilia dealer they are probably required to do. If that is the case, then I recommend taking up the cudgels against Aprilia New Zealand Ltd (part of the Triumph/BMW/Aprilia/Moto Guzzi empire). If that doesn't work, then get Red Baron to order the parts they need directly from AF1 Racing in Texas. These will be delivered within five working days.
I realize that anything might happen but why couldn't they just tell me that. I could purchase the parts from states with one week delivery. Instead of that they were telling me about next week... This is the main problem.


What does your insurance company have to say about the situation?
Today they called me and said that the process was started. Contact them in a week... :brick:


I would have thought the contract was with the insurance company? Tell them you're off to the ombudsman?
I'm really new to all insurance related things. That is my first case and I thought there is nothing much insurance company can do. Am I right?

[The Reibz]

Were you the guy that was in the NZ Herald? Thought you got paid out in court for that bike...

Don't use the Barron for anything. Expensive parts and bad service.

[OutLander]

Were you the guy that was in the NZ Herald? Thought you got paid out in court for that bike...

Don't use the Barron for anything. Expensive parts and bad service.

No, I'm not the one. This is all new story :)

[imdying]

I'm really new to all insurance related things. That is my first case and I thought there is nothing much insurance company can do. Am I right?Have a read of the contract you accepted, presumably there are clauses for timely repairs? Give them a ring too. Don't get all in their face about it, but presumably they're into helping their customers get the service they've paid for.

[avgas]

Go in - buy a new bike, put down a deposit and forget to pay the remainder.

[Ender EnZed]

Were you the guy that was in the NZ Herald? Thought you got paid out in court for that bike...


Different situation. That was a guy who had bought a new bike off them and the warranty work took ages. His contract was with Red Baron as sold him the bike.

In this case the OP has a contract with the company that sold him the insurance, that's where I'd be looking to resolve any issues.

[Icemaestro]

just received a speedo cable from BMW NZ.....4 months to the day... it was around 3 months that I saw that article in the paper, was very tempted!!

[Mom]

Hi everyone,

Next week on Monday I will celebrate 6 month anniversary of my bike repair. :soon:
I crashed it in March and the only actual damage was broken rear break pedal, apart from them I scratched plastic and frame a little bit. I called my insurance company and they suggested to take my bike to official dealer. I have an Aprilia bike and the only dealer I found was RB Auckland so I took my bike there. And it is still in there workshop...:wacko:

As you can imagine, there were a lot of calls and promises, reasons and excuses... and the outcome is nothing. My bike is still in the same condition as it was in March.
I think I will bake a cake and deliver it to their manager as I want to share my happiness of a satisfied customer with them.
What do you think about that?
Could you please suggest any other workshop that actually fixes bikes?

Get hold of your insurance company and ask them what they consider a reasonable length of time for a repair. Bear in mind they don't care, you are just another piece of paper on the claims desk, no one there is really troubled about the fact you have not got your bike back. Make this your insurance companies problem by reminding them often that you are not happy. You pay premiums for them to cover you, and you have a right to expect repairs in a reasonable timeframe. Good luck with it, Red Baron gives me the shits FWIW.

[haydes55]

Get insurance with a company that will supply a rental bike until repairs are done... I can imagine they would be putting repairs high on their priorities. AA roadside plus gives you a rental doesn't it?

[Rhys]

I would also ask the insurance company for compensation of rego and insurance premium as the bike has been "off the road"

[Hitcher]

I would also ask the insurance company for compensation of rego and insurance premium as the bike has been "off the road"

You could also stand naked on the roof of your house and practice Australian bird calls. An insurance company will not spend a cent more than it needs to, particularly if what's requested isn't recorded in the details of the agreement you signed. It will also not be interested in how long repairs take, just the size of the invoice once the repairs are completed.

[st00ji]

who is your insurance with?

[Bikemad]

You could also stand naked on the roof of your house and practice Australian bird calls.

watch millionaire hot seat tonight eh Hitch............that guy was pretty good

[OutLander]

Different situation. That was a guy who had bought a new bike off them and the warranty work took ages. His contract was with Red Baron as sold him the bike.

In this case the OP has a contract with the company that sold him the insurance, that's where I'd be looking to resolve any issues.

I don't have any time frames in contract.


who is your insurance with?
Kiwibike. I called them every 3 weeks. They called RB. RB said that they are waiting for parts. That's probably it.
Yesterday I had another conversation with Dave and hopefully RB will start doing something. Now I really can't understand what I'm paying for. The only fix that I couldn't do myself is small paint job of the frame. Since the accident I was twice in states and I could just bring the parts from there by my one. Now I think that the claim was a bad idea....

[OutLander]

I would also ask the insurance company for compensation of rego and insurance premium as the bike has been "off the road"

Just received a call from Dave. Hi is also following this thread and he thinks that it is a good idea. I will get half of my rego back from Kiwibike :yes:

[imdying]

That's still pathetic. He can't have been unaware he had a repair on the books for that long. Some pro activity is well fucking overdue.

[Old Steve]

Ring the insurance company and ask them to provide a replacement bike as you've been so long without your bike that you're becoming paranoic and violent - use raised vice here. Then ask if you could actually come in to their office and discuss you getting a replacement bike.

[st00ji]

the whole situation is BS mate, 6 months?! parts for your bike could have travelled round the world a hundred times.

make a fuss, get the bike somewhere else, preferably a place that is willing to do a bit more to move the job along.

i couldnt last that long without a ride.

[Smifffy]

I don't have any time frames in contract.


Kiwibike. I called them every 3 weeks. They called RB. RB said that they are waiting for parts. That's probably it.
Yesterday I had another conversation with Dave and hopefully RB will start doing something. Now I really can't understand what I'm paying for. The only fix that I couldn't do myself is small paint job of the frame. Since the accident I was twice in states and I could just bring the parts from there by my one. Now I think that the claim was a bad idea....

In that case, could you not agree a cash settlement with the insurance, get the bike back and make your own arrangements?

[OutLander]

In that case, could you not agree a cash settlement with the insurance, get the bike back and make your own arrangements?

I was trying to sort this in such way in the beginning but I was told that I should go to the dealer.

As RB say now my bike should be ready till the end of next week.:ar15:
I would definitely change the workshop but then the process will start from the beginning.

This is just experience for me... never again.
BTW should I pay the insurance for these 6 month as my insurance company said that I was not allowed to ride my bike until it is fixed?

[imdying]

Glad I'm with Vero then. From my encounters, they're interested in actually getting things done.

[Gremlin]

Glad I'm with Vero then. From my encounters, they're interested in actually getting things done.
As some have alluded to, I suspect the issue is not RB (hell, it may well be, and I never shop there), but ordering parts for Triumph / Aprilia / Any brands through Beckhaus, is simply a case of "it's been ordered, you'll receive it when it arrives".

No ETA, could be weeks, months etc. I know dealers who have been on the receiving end of that "service" and had to sometimes buy back the bike, as they simply can't give any promises to the customer, which makes them look shit.

[imdying]

As some have alluded to, I suspect the issue is not RB (hell, it may well be, and I never shop there), but ordering parts for Triumph / Aprilia / Any brands through Beckhaus, is simply a case of "it's been ordered, you'll receive it when it arrives".

No ETA, could be weeks, months etc. I know dealers who have been on the receiving end of that "service" and had to sometimes buy back the bike, as they simply can't give any promises to the customer, which makes them look shit.I'm quite aware of that, but I don't pay my premium to Red Baron, I pay it to my insurer, therefore it is their problem to sort my claim out in a timely manner. End of.

[p.dath]

Your bike is an Aprilia. The New Zealand agent/distributor for Aprilia cares not a shit about anything other than selling new motorcycles. You may well find that Red Baron is waiting on parts to be delivered through official supply channels, which as an officially-sanctioned Aprilia dealer they are probably required to do. If that is the case, then I recommend taking up the cudgels against Aprilia New Zealand Ltd (part of the Triumph/BMW/Aprilia/Moto Guzzi empire). If that doesn't work, then get Red Baron to order the parts they need directly from AF1 Racing in Texas. These will be delivered within five working days.

Listen to Hitcher - he has some experience. Direct them to get the parts from where Hitcher says, or if they can't (they might be contractually bound to get them from the distributor) ask them for a parts list and source them directly and then let them install the parts.

[OutLander]

Hi Everyone

I'm really trying to be polite with every person in my life. I think that it was the wrong position in this process. Because now, when I created a post on KB I received calls from managers saying that they are doing their best and now controlling the situation to make sure I will get my bike asap. Seriously guys, where were you during these 6 months...

About the whole situation and everyone’s position:
Insurance company says that everything has done from their side and it’s the workshop that is stopping the process. And I understand them...
Red Baron says that they are ready to complete the job, but these are the missing parts from the supplier that are holding the process. And I understand them too...
I haven't talked to the supplier, but I believe that they will be pointing to the Aprilia factory.
And it appears to be my fault... I just shouldn't have made a claim and everyone would be happy. I should have fixed it on my own and spend less time, money and emotions on this situation.

I think that all these companies should, at least, try to sort such situations before the customer starts to shout out about their problems.

My tiny suggestion to them is:
Kiwibike - could you please track how long the cases are going and help to find alternatives. I didn't know that it is possible to get a spare bike or change the workshop after the process has started.

RB - the same. You came up with suggestions like finding temporary alternatives for my brake pedal after 5 months of delivering the original one. Why couldn't you make that earlier? And please don't point fingers to anyone saying that this is their fault. I came to you and you said that you will fix it. Why your problems with supplier should become a customer problem? Why don't you just say: Yep, we screwed it up. Sorry mate. As our apologies we will buy you beer and make some BBQ sausages or we will buy you a nice pink helmet to match your full black racing leather or an awesome bicycle horn for your bike. Pointing fingers never looks good, really. For me it looks like you just don't care about your reputation at all.

And a tiny story about what I think is a real Kiwi style service:
There is a small coffee shop near my home. They have cakes and sandwiches. I visit it three times a week. Usually it is the same days and same time. I always ask for specific coffee and a cake that I really like. I like those moments when I can have a short talk with the owner and forget about the life flow outside the cafe. But another day my favorite cake was not there. Well not a big deal really. I would try something else .. but the owner said that as there is no my favorite cake he will treat me. And he just made a king sandwich in a secret way :laugh: and it was free. The owner made the situation just a little bit personal. I costed him 5 minutes and couple of dollars but he got more than a satisfied customer that is telling everyone now about that small but awesome coffee shop.

So companies, if you are reading this, please think that behind all those papers on your desk you will find real people. And try to make it just a little bit more personal. If I wanted to be another paper I would move to US. :confused:

[nerrrd]

I'm really trying to be polite with every person in my life. I think that it was the wrong position in this process. Because now, when I created a post on KB I received calls from managers saying that they are doing their best and now controlling the situation to make sure I will get my bike asap. Seriously guys, where were you during these 6 months...


Really feel for you, I would have gone mental long before this. Good on you for shaming them in public, they royally deserve it.

[Maha]

And a tiny story about what I think is a real Kiwi style service:
There is a small coffee shop near my home. They have cakes and sandwiches. I visit it three times a week. Usually it is the same days and same time. I always ask for specific coffee and a cake that I really like. I like those moments when I can have a short talk with the owner and forget about the life flow outside the cafe. But another day my favorite cake was not there. Well not a big deal really. I would try something else .. but the owner said that as there is no my favorite cake he will treat me. And he just made a king sandwich in a secret way :laugh: and it was free. The owner made the situation just a little bit personal. I costed him 5 minutes and couple of dollars but he got more than a satisfied customer that is telling everyone now about that small but awesome coffee shop.



I had the thing going here where I live, about two years ago, I use to go into our local Subway everyday around the same time (yes everyday/five days a week) and order the same sub. they got to know me so well that they did not have to ask what went on it, I did not have to talk other that say hello when I walked in, even the three sauce's would be ready waiting at the end.
Years ago when I lived in Papatoetoe, the local servo would have my smokes on the counter ready when pulled in to gas up.. I no longer smoke and only visit subway once a week now, both additions have left my psyche.

PS: I had one experience at RB years ago and wont go back for a repeat.
PPS: Been trying to contact Cycletreads re new tyres, two emails and one voice message left...still waiting.

[nzspokes]

I was really keen on a Aprilia Tuono, in yellow.

No way in hell I would buy one now.

Hope your bike gets sorted.

[BigAl]

Apparently the bike market has been suffering over recent times due to economic downturn and then you hear about shit service like this.


How do shops like Red Baron stay open?

[Maha]

I was really keen on a Aprilia Tuono, in yellow.

No way in hell I would buy one now.

Hope your bike gets sorted.

...and the price had nothing to do with it eh :killingme

If they had a bike I was really keen on, I would do a Dealer to Dealer and buy it that way.

[Bikemad]

Been trying to contact Cycletreads re new tyres, two emails and one voice message left...still waiting.

give AJ at motohaus a go..........workshop below motomail

[nuts]

If there is no bloody parts in the world, where do you suggest the bike shop gets them from, Do you really believe the shop is doing this on purpose just to piss you off ?? do you think they want the bad publicity? do you think they injoy people shouting at them?? the problem lies fair and square with the distributer and the manufacturer problem is you cant really talk to them, you should ask Hitcher about his experiance and what his local shop had to put up with.

[Maha]

give AJ at motohaus a go..........workshop below motomail

Didn't know they did tyres there?
I am after Michelin Pilot Road3B-17 for the rear and a 120/70-17 PR3 for the front.

[nerrrd]

give AJ at motohaus a go..........workshop below motomail

+1 for AJ, got my roadtech Z6's from there for $499 fitted, Cycletreads quoted me over $600 but I think that was retail, they might have done a deal if I'd asked?


If there is no bloody parts in the world, where do you suggest the bike shop gets them from, Do you really believe the shop is doing this on purpose just to piss you off ?? do you think they want the bad publicity? do you think they injoy people shouting at them?? the problem lies fair and square with the distributer and the manufacturer problem is you cant really talk to them, you should ask Hitcher about his experiance and what his local shop had to put up with.

Whoever fault it is, it's certainly not his. 6 months shows plenty of understanding IMHO. But yeah I get that the local distributors don't care about small orders, having waited months myself for ordered items not to arrive and then ordering them online and getting them in a matter of days. It's a strange world we live in these days.

[nuts]

He crashed his bike whos fault is that. and he has been riding his bike from what I understand so hasnt been with out his bike for 6 months but has been riding a damaged bike and only because bloody Aprilia dont have a couple of the parts. thats what believe any way. the blame has to be rested on the manufacturer for not having the parts not the shop as the dont make them and certinly cant hold onto every single part that that may be needed for every single bike ever sold thats the manucturer and or the distributer, the poor bloody bike shop always gets its arse kicked becuase you guys can see them. Im sure when they took the job on they thought they could get the parts as would be reasanable you would think ??? but ohh no and then the shit hits the fan and then the shop is bloody useless and everone working in the shop are arse holes what a load of crap open your eyes people.

[nzspokes]

He crashed his bike whos fault is that. and he has been riding his bike from what I understand so hasnt been with out his bike for 6 months but has been riding a damaged bike and only because bloody Aprilia dont have a couple of the parts. thats what believe any way. the blame has to be rested on the manufacturer for not having the parts not the shop as the dont make them and certinly cant hold onto every single part that that may be needed for every single bike ever sold thats the manucturer and or the distributer, the poor bloody bike shop always gets its arse kicked becuase you guys can see them. Im sure when they took the job on they thought they could get the parts as would be reasanable you would think ??? but ohh no and then the shit hits the fan and then the shop is bloody useless and everone working in the shop are arse holes what a load of crap open your eyes people.

Wow that was hard to read.

[Madness]

I'm really trying to be polite with every person in my life.

Me too. It's not always easy though, eh?

[Jantar]

If there is no bloody parts in the world, where do you suggest the bike shop gets them from, Do you really believe the shop is doing this on purpose just to piss you off ?? do you think they want the bad publicity? do you think they injoy people shouting at them?? the problem lies fair and square with the distributer and the manufacturer problem is you cant really talk to them, you should ask Hitcher about his experiance and what his local shop had to put up with.

"If there is no bloody parts in the world" then the bike shop should have told the insurance company that and the bike would be written off, payout made, and problems solved in a much shorter time frame.

[Mom]

"If there is no bloody parts in the world" then the bike shop should have told the insurance company that and the bike would be written off, payout made, and problems solved in a much shorter time frame.

I think he must work for Red Baron myself :yes:

Ridiculous situation. Yours is a good solution.

[gammaguy]

I had the thing going here where I live, about two years ago, I use to go into our local Subway everyday around the same time (yes everyday/five days a week) and order the same sub. they got to know me so well that they did not have to ask what went on it, I did not have to talk other that say hello when I walked in, even the three sauce's would be ready waiting at the end.
Years ago when I lived in Papatoetoe, the local servo would have my smokes on the counter ready when pulled in to gas up.. I no longer smoke and only visit subway once a week now, both additions have left my psyche.

PS: I had one experience at RB years ago and wont go back for a repeat.
PPS: Been trying to contact Cycletreads re new tyres, two emails and one voice message left...still waiting.

theres a subway right near where I live,so no surprises I have lunch there 3-5 times a week

The staff there know exactly what I like and its always made without a word,just a friendly hello and a smile.

Great service,thats why I always go there

not really rocket science,shame a lot of bike shops I could name dont seem to have learned this

as for cycletreads.....I dealt with them recently,a really nice lady called Dianne in the mail order dept,and she was very helpful and even....shock......rang me back after I left a message.As usual,it comes down to people and service.

[actungbaby]

I realize that anything might happen but why couldn't they just tell me that. I could purchase the parts from states with one week delivery. Instead of that they were telling me about next week... This is the main problem.


Today they called me and said that the process was started. Contact them in a week... :brick:


I'm really new to all insurance related things. That is my first case and I thought there is nothing much insurance company can do. Am I right?

No theres everthing there can do in fact its there job to fix this you shouldint even have to rin the bike shop not your problem .

it unexcaptable to wait 6 months period I whould ask to speak to the manager and demand your bike be fixed and if cant answer with some answers go to citizen advice.

[actungbaby]

You could also stand naked on the roof of your house and practice Australian bird calls. An insurance company will not spend a cent more than it needs to, particularly if what's requested isn't recorded in the details of the agreement you signed. It will also not be interested in how long repairs take, just the size of the invoice once the repairs are completed.

Thats crap you dont put up with bad service well i certaily whoudint .

[Maha]

He crashed his bike whos fault is that. and he has been riding his bike from what I understand so hasnt been with out his bike for 6 months but has been riding a damaged bike and only because bloody Aprilia dont have a couple of the parts. thats what believe any way. the blame has to be rested on the manufacturer for not having the parts not the shop as the dont make them and certinly cant hold onto every single part that that may be needed for every single bike ever sold thats the manucturer and or the distributer, the poor bloody bike shop always gets its arse kicked becuase you guys can see them. Im sure when they took the job on they thought they could get the parts as would be reasanable you would think ??? but ohh no and then the shit hits the fan and then the shop is bloody useless and everone working in the shop are arse holes what a load of crap open your eyes people.

Do you wear a tan leatherette jacket/tight jeans/use hair wax and trot around in Doc Martin boots while trying to sell scooters per chance?

[nerrrd]

He crashed his bike whos fault is that.

FFS it's his fault for being born as well I s'pose. Like it or not being a retailer makes you the meat in the customer/distributor sandwich, that's the job. Not saying it's not hard and people can be annoying and unreasonable at times but it doesn't seem like that's the case here - in fact I'd say it's the opposite, and no sane business person looking at this objectively would think having to wait 6 months for a resolution (oh wait, it still isn't even resolved now) is reasonable either.

[Ocean1]

I was really keen on a Aprilia Tuono, in yellow.

No way in hell I would buy one now.

There's been three bikes I've not bought over the last few years because of the "support" structure behind them, an Ape and two Triumphs. That's 'prox $40k of business that particular distributor has cost their marques, their dealers and themselves.

I'd love to know what their shithouse service has cost nationally over the last few years. To be honest, I'm not sure I'd do business with a manufacturer that's so out of touch with their market that they're either unaware of the situation or simply don't care anyway.

[TLDV8]

You can't win them all I guess.
This thread reminded me of a couple of 'drama's I had to endure in the past when I simply did not have time due to work commitments to do the jobs myself.

Some time back in the 1990's I needed some work done (Ducati) so took the parts to a well known Auckland shop.
The long story short after paying some $1800.
The crankshaft was returned looking like it had been rolled around on the shop floor.
The alinement of the press up was so far off the spigot ed outer bevel support would not fit over the crank end without force.
The heads were returned with the bevel towers not fitted,the front cam was in the rear head,the rear in the front.
One valve guide had obviously been damaged with a drift or whatever then cleaned up with a dye grinder.
The machined surfaces where the cam end block and bevel tower bolted to were found to have the cross hatch on them from being cramped in a vice while the heads were 'worked on.
The seats had been cut oval and the valve margins went from one to three millimeters (I still have those 4000 km old valves in a bag somewhere)
When I took the heads back,no apology and when I picked them up after the cams had been put in the correct heads it was found the closing clearances had up to 0.5 mm (iirc) looseness.
The mistake I made was not talking to the owner who then did tyres only and someone I knew to talk to and had been buying parts off as far back as 1977 in the original shop.
Instead I did say something to the son and was made to feel like a total c&&t and that I was either exaggerating or lying.
Later on it was we are not all bad,hello it is your shop and mechanic. :brick:
The whole engine was then crated and sent to Brook Henry in Perth.
I still remember the email where it was mentioned about the crank and heads,he at first doubted me when I said it had been done by (his words) a factory trained mechanic.
Some years later (4 or 5 ) perhaps when there was a new racer/mechanic I decided to give the benefit of doubt and dropped a lightened and polished Ducati crankshaft in,every time I dropped in to see how it was going,it was sitting in near the same spot and starting to get surface rust,after being fobbed off for what might have been two to three months I picked it up and left.

Ohhh and as to long waits,the original fiasco,I payed up front for a rod kit ($$$) and it took some two years to finally get the correct straight 38mm pin promised when I payed.

[OutLander]

If there is no bloody parts in the world, where do you suggest the bike shop gets them from, Do you really believe the shop is doing this on purpose just to piss you off ?? do you think they want the bad publicity? do you think they injoy people shouting at them?? the problem lies fair and square with the distributer and the manufacturer problem is you cant really talk to them, you should ask Hitcher about his experiance and what his local shop had to put up with.

As I said before, the only functional damage was the rear brake pedal. They couldn't find a pedal? I haven't checked the 2013 model but I'm pretty sure that they are the same.
In the ideal world I would expect something like this:
During the initial check RB could have mentioned that as this is not the latest model there could be problems with the parts A,B,C so probably you can talk to your insurance company to put parts from the latest model if they match or you can purchase aftermarket parts or we will fix/paint these parts, etc
Ok, they didn't expect such delays, but when 2-3 months passed RB could have contacted me and asked if we can sort this in a different way: aftermarket parts/fixing and painting or anything else.

My main objection is not about the parts, but about the poor communication with the client.


He crashed his bike whos fault is that. and he has been riding his bike from what I understand so hasnt been with out his bike for 6 months but has been riding a damaged bike and only because bloody Aprilia dont have a couple of the parts. thats what believe any way. the blame has to be rested on the manufacturer for not having the parts not the shop as the dont make them and certinly cant hold onto every single part that that may be needed for every single bike ever sold thats the manucturer and or the distributer, the poor bloody bike shop always gets its arse kicked becuase you guys can see them. Im sure when they took the job on they thought they could get the parts as would be reasanable you would think ??? but ohh no and then the shit hits the fan and then the shop is bloody useless and everone working in the shop are arse holes what a load of crap open your eyes people.

Nope, I wasn't riding my bike without rear breaks. First, it's not safe. Second, my insurance company strongly advised not to ride my bike. When I first came to RB I saw several bikes that were standing under the rain and asked if it is ok to keep my bike at home while I'm waiting for the parts. RB tech guy said that it was fine. At home I have stands, cover and smart battery charger. I'm not sure if RB would take care of one bike as I do at home.

Once again, the main problem is not in the parts themselves, but in the communication with the client. I was on my own with the problem before I made this post. The only person who started to act before this topic was Dave from KiwiBike, after 5 months and 3 weeks, but still before the post.

Once again, tech guys from RB, I'm not saying that you are doing your job badly, maybe you are the greatest in the world, unfortunately, I didn't have a chance to see the result. I also don't think that you could even do something in this situation. This message is more to your manager, who has access to the customer related information. If the claim is open for 6 months then something seems to be wrong.

P.S. BTW I always was polite with you guys during our conversations and you can't be polite even here... unfortunately...

[tonup]

As I said before, the only functional damage was the rear brake pedal. They couldn't find a pedal? I haven't checked the 2013 model but I'm pretty sure that they are the same.
In the ideal world I would expect something like this:
During the initial check RB could have mentioned that as this is not the latest model there could be problems with the parts A,B,C so probably you can talk to your insurance company to put parts from the latest model if they match or you can purchase aftermarket parts or we will fix/paint these parts, etc
Ok, they didn't expect such delays, but when 2-3 months passed RB could have contacted me and asked if we can sort this in a different way: aftermarket parts/fixing and painting or anything else.

My main objection is not about the parts, but about the poor communication with the client.



Nope, I wasn't riding my bike without rear breaks. First, it's not safe. Second, my insurance company strongly advised not to ride my bike. When I first came to RB I saw several bikes that were standing under the rain and asked if it is ok to keep my bike at home while I'm waiting for the parts. RB tech guy said that it was fine. At home I have stands, cover and smart battery charger. I'm not sure if RB would take care of one bike as I do at home.

Once again, the main problem is not in the parts themselves, but in the communication with the client. I was on my own with the problem before I made this post. The only person who started to act before this topic was Dave from KiwiBike, after 5 months and 3 weeks, but still before the post.

Once again, tech guys from RB, I'm not saying that you are doing your job badly, maybe you are the greatest in the world, unfortunately, I didn't have a chance to see the result. I also don't think that you could even do something in this situation. This message is more to your manager, who has access to the customer related information. If the claim is open for 6 months then something seems to be wrong.

P.S. BTW I always was polite with you guys during our conversations and you can't be polite even here... unfortunately...

Hi Outlander, as a rule I don't get involved in disputes in public forums but I would just like to clarify nobody from my shop has commented on this post. I acknowledge your frustration I would like to make a time to see you next week at a time that is convenient to you. I will call you Monday. Thanks.

[OutLander]

Hi Outlander, as a rule I don't get involved in disputes in public forums but I would just like to clarify nobody from my shop has commented on this post. I acknowledge your frustration I would like to make a time to see you next week at a time that is convenient to you. I will call you Monday. Thanks.
Thank you for the clarification. Unfortunately this detail

he has been riding his bike from what I understand so hasnt been with out his bike for 6 months but has been riding a damaged bike
made me think that this person is somehow related to RB as only RB staff knew that the bike wasn't in the workshop.

[tonup]

Thank you for the clarification. Unfortunately this detail

made me think that this person is somehow related to RB as only RB staff knew that the bike wasn't in the workshop.

They (my staff) know you are not riding it, let me know what a good time to meet with you and I will make arrangements. Thanks.

[p.dath]

If there is no bloody parts in the world, where do you suggest the bike shop gets them from, Do you really believe the shop is doing this on purpose just to piss you off ?? do you think they want the bad publicity? do you think they injoy people shouting at them?? the problem lies fair and square with the distributer and the manufacturer problem is you cant really talk to them, you should ask Hitcher about his experiance and what his local shop had to put up with.

As Hitcher pointed out, after market suppliers can get the parts, delivered to NZ, within 7 days. The bike shop can get parts, if they are prepared to give the customer the option of using after market parts.

7 days sounds better than 6 months to me.

[Ender EnZed]

As Hitcher pointed out, after market suppliers can get the parts, delivered to NZ, within 7 days. The bike shop can get parts, if they are prepared to give the customer the option of using after market parts.

7 days sounds better than 6 months to me.

If they are able to, it's hard to see why they wouldn't be offering customers this option as a default in some cases. This thread isn't exactly an isolated case of an unacceptable wait for oem parts.

It's a little surprising insurance companies don't encourage an aftermarket option given that it could save them money as well as improve their customers experience.

[swbarnett]

If they are able to, it's hard to see why they wouldn't be offering customers this option as a default in some cases. This thread isn't exactly an isolated case of an unacceptable wait for oem parts.

It's a little surprising insurance companies don't encourage an aftermarket option given that it could save them money as well as improve their customers experience.
Indeed. I needed a replacement exhaust for my GSX after it was pushed over in a carpark. Colemans rang me almost straight after the claim had been accepted and offered me a Yoshi instead of OEM because it was going to take 6 months to get one from Japan.

[English Kiwi]

Indeed. I needed a replacement exhaust for my GSX after it was pushed over in a carpark. Colemans rang me almost straight after the claim had been accepted and offered me a Yoshi instead of OEM because it was going to take 6 months to get one from Japan.

I opted for a Scorpion exhaust instead of the OEM as it was only $200 more expensive after my crash, ordered 7 weeks ago and still another 3 weeks off...maybe I should have gone OEM!?!?

On that note though 7 weeks ago my parts were ordered from Japan/Thailand still another couple of weeks off...

[imdying]

Regardless of Red Baron's faults in dealing with this, they are an agent of the insurance company, so his beef should remain with them. It's a sad indictment of the industry when you have to come whinge on here of all places to get some action.

Damn RSV4 would very tasty in my garage, but fucked if I'll ever buy one.

[swbarnett]

I opted for a Scorpion exhaust instead of the OEM as it was only $200 more expensive after my crash, ordered 7 weeks ago and still another 3 weeks off...maybe I should have gone OEM!?!?

On that note though 7 weeks ago my parts were ordered from Japan/Thailand still another couple of weeks off...
I was lucky. The Yoshi was in stock locally.

[Smifffy]

I was lucky. The Yoshi was in stock locally.

And much better business sense to move on an item already in stock, tying up working capital, The insurance co pays for the bulk of the cost of a 'luxury' item, and everybody wins. Smart.

[OutLander]

Hi everyone,

Hopefully this long story will come to an end soon. I want to say "Thank you" to Dave from KiwiBike and Nick from RB.
Dave, thanks for all your efforts and achievements in resolving this situation. I really don't think that another company could resolve this situation better.
Nick, thanks for the clarification and trying to sort this situation out asap. You were not involved when the issue stated but your current help is very appreciated.

As I have said before, I'm a pretty easygoing person and I believe that everything is for the better. I think my situation should improve current processes between insurance companies and workshops in hard cases and none of you, guys, will get in the situations like this. Hopefully :lol:

[Maha]

give AJ at motohaus a go..........workshop below motomail

I am going to physically visit Cycletread later today, still have not heard back from them, I will ask as to why that is. Probably get the standard ''Dunno, we'll follow that up''

[White trash]

Hi everyone,

Hopefully this long story will come to an end soon. I want to say "Thank you" to Dave from KiwiBike and Nick from RB.
Dave, thanks for all your efforts and achievements in resolving this situation. I really don't think that another company could resolve this situation better.
Nick, thanks for the clarification and trying to sort this situation out asap. You were not involved when the issue stated but your current help is very appreciated.

As I have said before, I'm a pretty easygoing person and I believe that everything is for the better. I think my situation should improve current processes between insurance companies and workshops in hard cases and none of you, guys, will get in the situations like this. Hopefully :lol:

Bloody good buggers, the pair of them. Nick's well due for a hair cut though..............

[russd7]

Get insurance with a company that will supply a rental bike until repairs are done... I can imagine they would be putting repairs high on their priorities. AA roadside plus gives you a rental doesn't it?

aa wont insure motobikes even tho they are underwritten by vero

[Paul in NZ]

aa wont insure motobikes even tho they are underwritten by vero

I ditiched AA some time back after one of their anti motorcycle rants...

[russd7]

I ditiched AA some time back after one of their anti motorcycle rants...

all our other insurance is with AA and they were absolutely brilliant to deal with when we got burgled a few years ago, they even paid out full price for new leathers that were stolen when they didn't have to, just pisses me off they wont insure bikes

[strandedinnz]

aa wont insure motobikes even tho they are underwritten by vero


Eh ? I'm insured with AA for my DR-Z ....

[AllanB]

Your first error was buying a Aprilia in NZ. One cannot get parts from the NZ importer.

Is the bike under warranty? If so then parts will need to be ordered through the useless importer.

If it is just an insurance claim then talk to your insurance company as I doubt they will have any issue with RB or yourself ordering the parts ex USA and you could be on the road again two weeks.

[russd7]

Eh ? I'm insured with AA for my DR-Z ....

i have asked them several times about the zzr and the same answer every time, they don't insure motorbikes, that said its been a while since i last asked them so maybe they do now

[Erelyes]

Eh ? I'm insured with AA for my DR-Z ....

Could well be a historical policy? Insurance coys are often loathe to tell people to fuck off, we won't insure you any more, so they just keep the old ones ticking over.