I'm all in favor of supporting local (NZ) businesses, if they aren't taking the piss

[Mike.Gayner]

I'm thinking about getting some sort of bluetooth communications set-up, so have been looking around. I'm set on one of the Sena units, but our local NZ retailers must think we're fucking stupid, the way they're pricing this gear.

Here's what we can get from the USA:
http://www.revzilla.com/motorcycle/sena-smh-10-headset-dual-pack

$284.75 US Dollars
That's $361.24 NZ dollars.
Add GST of $54.19
Total theoretical cost in NZ: $415.43

Here's what they want locally:
http://www.cycletreads.co.nz/products/1709-sena_intercoms/8896-sena_smh10_bluetooth_headset_a.aspx
$650 here in NZ. That's 56% more expensive even after taking account of GST and currency conversion.

It wouldn't be so hard to swallow if we were given great service, but I've never had anything but appalling service from Cycletreads online. On the other hand, Revzilla have amazing customer service and are always happy to help.

Sick of NZ retails moaning about being threatened by online sales - get your shit together and stop trying to extract such unreasonable profits from your customers. I can't see myself every buying from a local dealer again for bike gear.

[pete-blen]

Know how yer feel...
I have just ordered $340NZ worth of lathe tooling from overseas...
Best I could find in NZ was pushing $700 from NZ carbite...

[Tazz]

Eh, just buy from overseas then. No skin off their back.
I had one product line that I found I could buy from the UK at a lower retail cost than I paid wholesale. How the hell can you not take the 'piss' when you're up against that?

[mossy1200]

I like to be a bit balanced when buying bike bits.
Motorad Wellington can get me a lot of bits for almost the same price. If its only a mater of 10 difference on smaller items that's all good.
They got my quickshifter and rods for almost the same price as ordering online. Paid for the part when it arrived so zero risks and no chasing customs.
I think the new customs GST and extra costs for inspections etc has closed gaps a bit price wise.
They got my Yoshi zx14r pipes cheaper than I could get them.
Also I know when I want tyres I take my wheel in a leave with a fitted tyre at a good price. Loyalty is a 2 way thing.

Saying that
I buy most of my caferacer parts on Ebay due to their unusual nature.

Idd like to add I have had some disasters ordering overseas.
I ordered a left and right disc for my race bike and they sent me the left and refunded me the money for the right saying part discontinued.
They didn't offer me the updated pair so I was stuck paying freight for 2 sales tax for 2 at their end. Cost me $500 for a disc I couldn't use.

[Big Dog]

I like to be a bit balanced when buying bike bits.
Motorad Wellington can get me a lot of bits for almost the same price. If its only a mater of 10 difference on smaller items that's all good.
They got my quickshifter and rods for almost the same price as ordering online. Paid for the part when it arrived so zero risks and no chasing customs.
I think the new customs GST and extra costs for inspections etc has closed gaps a bit price wise.
They got my Yoshi zx14r pipes cheaper than I could get them.
Also I know when I want tyres I take my wheel in a leave with a fitted tyre at a good price. Loyalty is a 2 way thing.

Saying that
I buy most of my caferacer parts on Ebay due to their unusual nature.

Idd like to add I have had some disasters ordering overseas.
I ordered a left and right disc for my race bike and they sent me the left and refunded me the money for the right saying part discontinued.
They didn't offer me the updated pair so I was stuck paying freight for 2 sales tax for 2 at their end. Cost me $500 for a disc I couldn't use.

That is a pretty dick move


Stupid phone / Tapatalk, apologies in advance.

[Blackbird]

Yep, I bought my SENA SMH 10 set through the US and had them shipped via YouShop, saving about 40% on the NZ price. About 6 months ago, I broke a connector pin on one of the units through my own clumsiness and a replacement body (excludes the mount and mic boom) was only US$112 plus shipping.

I'll support people like Robert Taylor at KSS who add a high value service component but not when a supplier who has the market cornered rorts the system. Sorry, but their business model no longer stands up.

[GrayWolf]

If it's available or 'gettable' in NZ I will always go chat to Andrew at TSS first....
I've used them since I moved to Welly in 2006, and as has been said, loyalty is a 2 way st.

Some gear or aftermarket stuff just doesnt make it to these shores, then I'll use fleabay etc.

[bogan]

Mate, that isn't even taking the piss, just a slight leakage around the y-fronts compared to other things. 1m LED strip to my door from aliexpress is less than a dollar (min order 5m, so cheap I got 50m), can't find it for less than 20 per meter here...

[BlackSheepLogic]

I will buy locally to support the local business if the items are regular stocked items like riding gear, fairing components, chains etc. But I've given up trying to order less common or bike specific parts locally. Local distributors who don't either have stock of the item or don't normally carry the item although it's part of a line they are distributors for are a pain to deal with so I don't try anymore.

[trapster66]

I too like to support local business as much as possible, but after chasing two local motorcycle shops for three/four weeks, (nothing special gasket set, oil seals, plugs etc,) I rang a company out of town(still in NZ) on a Wednesday parts arrived on Friday morning... being a fair sort of bugger I give em another chance with some other parts, needless to say I now go straight to the out of town company.
Loyalty lies with the people that work the hardest for you.

[RJC]

yeah it's bullshit alright, I just paid $90 for a brake lever locally because I needed one now. Then ordered a spare online to my door for $23.

[Big Dog]

Quoted price for a HISS key, chip and cut locally is about the same as three from Poland.


Stupid phone / Tapatalk, apologies in advance.

[R650R]

I just bought a genuine Ohlins conversion kit from alibaba.
Has official ohlins sticker included and a special spray that mimics the ohlins nitrided stanchion look.
All for just $19.99 and my front end feels so stable now.

[AllanB]

Yeah - looking at headers for my XR6. Cheap in Aussie ................

[neels]

Sadly a lot of retailers in NZ are stuck with dealing with a couple of distributors along the way, so the choice is to not sell it or pass on everyone elses markup in the price.

Have had situations where I've found a price overseas and contacted the manufacturer, and been told to buy from the NZ agent for a crapload more, no option as they won't sell direct and cut out their agent.

[The Reibz]

Brace yourselves for Robert Taylors arrival

[Mike.Gayner]

Brace yourselves for Robert Taylors arrival

Fuck that guy, I've seen his nonsensical ramblings on this issue before. He may be beloved by some members of the community, but he lives in La-La land on this particular matter.

[Kickaha]

Fuck that guy, I've seen his nonsensical ramblings on this issue before. He may be beloved by some members of the community, but he lives in La-La land on this particular matter.
Just like you live in la-La land if you think that the 56% more expensive is pure profit for the retailer in NZ

That's 56% more expensive even after taking account of GST and currency conversion.

[The Reibz]

I've pretty much learnt not to go to cycletreads for anything besides tires.
Took them 30mins to find a partnumber for my steering head bearing last week and it still had to be ordered in. Atleast if I order online its shipped to my door.

They are a good shop but some of there shit is well overpriced and I don't like the fact that hardly anything is ever instock. I still go back for the local business support thing though, can't be sending all my money overseas unless its for turbo parts

[Mike.Gayner]

Just like you live in la-La land if you think that the 56% more expensive is pure profit for the retailer in NZ

Where did I say that?

[BMWST?]

Where did I say that?


"stop trying to extract such unreasonable profits from your customers"

[bogan]

Compare this stuff to PC parts for a different industry baseline, part that costs 1050 here, costs 580usd => 734 NZD + 160 gst/duties and you're up to 900 before factoring in any shipping at all. Add shipping and you might save $75 or 7%, in this case obviously well worth the extra to buy local for support/backup. Consistently the case with computer stuff being brought in too.

In regard to the OP, you forgot customs duties ($47) and shipping, likely another 50odd, so your 650 local (@RRP) is 26% more than your 515 foreign (@ RRP-25%).

Unrustle your jimmies son. My $50 worth of LEDs would cost my $1,000 here, and you know what I do about that?

[cameron.new]

Demand for the product also carries a factor to pricing in NZ.

I work in a musical instrument store and this is very much the case. I bought a limited edition guitar amp recently from work. There were around 500 of these amps made and 150 of these amps made it to Sweetwater (the Revzilla of the music world), us on the other hand got to get our hands on 3 of these amps for NZ distribution.

Also, I talk to distributors all the time and they keep offering me bulk pricing of stuff I need one of two of. Sena probably has people sitting in meeting rooms all day trying to push their product to the big spenders and they probably wont give their NZ distributor the time of day to negotiate buy prices because they want to order 10 or 20 units into NZ. Have no idea what Revzilla would stock but would be a hell of a lot more than 20 units ordered at a time.

Same rule applies to retailer ordering. If you are a store that heavily stocks an item, chances are you will be able to offer a better price compared to your local bike shop that wont stock them but will order on request.

I don't blame people for shopping online and not buying local but I also don't take offence to the price inflation when buying something locally.

Customer service on the other hand is irrelevant. No excuse to have poor customer service anywhere in NZ and the ones that miss out on a sale because of it, bloody well deserve it!

[R650R]

Have had situations where I've found a price overseas and contacted the manufacturer, and been told to buy from the NZ agent for a crapload more, no option as they won't sell direct and cut out their agent.

In all business operations you specialise in what you are good at, in the case you mention they are good at making stuff and they leave the selling to someone else.
Even for a small business you expend a lot of time dealing directo with potential customers whi may or may not buy something when you could be productive producing more of your finished product.
Same for that manufacturer, as soon as they start accepting phones sales, you'll tell you rmates and then they'll end up having to hire someone to answer the phone and pack the goods etc.
It sounds simple but its a lot of resources to expend for the few that will go your direct route instead of the established distributors.
Then if there is any damaged shipping or faulty products their tied up listening to some (rightfully) whining and seeking compensation.

Setting up a proper functioning e-commerce site for websales is no easy task either and costs megabucks and needs constant mainatainanace.

[R650R]

Took them 30mins to find a partnumber for my steering head bearing last week and it still had to be ordered in


You'd be lucky to find any bike shop that keeps steering head bearings in stock... our local shop doesn't even stock spark plugs now. There are so many variations its about $$$$ worth of stock to hold when they can be ordered in overnight as needed.
If you were a shop would you want your cash earning interest at bank or stuck in a set of head bearings sitting on shelf for six months....

[Flip]

I regually buy car bike and electronic parts for about half the price of the same pat from the NZ suppliers.

Its just Caveat emptor, the only company who has really ripped me off for parts was Triunph NZ who I won't ever deal with again. Of course if Triumph NZ would like to cough up with the parts I have ordered.............. Thought not............

I say fuck the local suppliers when they have a 100% markup on the same part I can buy overseas. In many cases get faster at a lower price.

[BlackSheepLogic]

Demand for the product also carries a factor to pricing in NZ

I don't agree, this is not always the case. Bike specific parts/kits like brake lines or leavers are not carried by anyone out there as stock items due to the number of options. The bike specific leavers come in several sizes, over a dozen color options + a dozen different insert color options. Bike specific brake lines have a huge array of color and fitting options. The distributors including big places like motomummy order these kits individually from the manufacture once the order is confirmed with a no return policy.

I would challenge anyone to get a bike specific brake line kit here in NZ in under eight weeks, let alone at any price comparable to buying a set in from the US. The distributor ordered my lines directly from the US manufacturer and put a very healthy profit margin on them - no different to a US distributor except it would have been half the cost to my door. Supporting a NZ company who could make up lines required specs that were extremely difficult to determine for my bike and it would have been double the cost of a US kit for them to make the lines had I provided the specs anyway.

After that experience I don't bother checking if I can get anything bike specific here locally.

[pritch]

Supporting the local people is good, but... Some years ago I was comparing the overseas prices of various items with local prices. In some cases, eg hunting rifles, the local price compared favourably with the overseas price. In other cases: fishing gear and cycle parts f'rinstance, the NZ price was much more expensive. It took a while but I eventually found out what was happening.

Some manufacturers have minimum order quantities that are just too high for a New Zealand agent. So the NZ agent buys them from the Australian importer which puts an extra middle man and an additional mark up into the equation resulting in a much higher price.

Getting rid of the wannabe NZ "importers" and using Australasian agents could be an answer except that most Australian businesses don't seem to understand that the word "Australasian" includes New Zealand.

IIRC correctly Bell helmets were similarly effected years ago and the NZ importer sourced them from a US distributor which ratcheted up the price.

None of which explains why a mass produced item that is available from multiple sources on E Bay @ US$10 to $15 costs $90 here.

Before Rogernomics changed things, having an import licence was a licence to print money. Some importers still don't seem to realise things have changed.

[James Deuce]

You'd be lucky to find any bike shop that keeps steering head bearings in stock... our local shop doesn't even stock spark plugs now. There are so many variations its about $$$$ worth of stock to hold when they can be ordered in overnight as needed.
If you were a shop would you want your cash earning interest at bank or stuck in a set of head bearings sitting on shelf for six months....

If you were a customer service business would you establish a supply methodology that would retain customers or would you just look at them like they were a fuckwit for daring to ask for a consumable part or parts and tell them to fuck right off because I've invested my money elsewhere?

[catharsis]

Demand for the product also carries a factor to pricing in NZ.

I work in a musical instrument store and this is very much the case. I bought a limited edition guitar amp recently from work. There were around 500 of these amps made and 150 of these amps made it to Sweetwater (the Revzilla of the music world), us on the other hand got to get our hands on 3 of these amps for NZ distribution.

Also, I talk to distributors all the time and they keep offering me bulk pricing of stuff I need one of two of. Sena probably has people sitting in meeting rooms all day trying to push their product to the big spenders and they probably wont give their NZ distributor the time of day to negotiate buy prices because they want to order 10 or 20 units into NZ. Have no idea what Revzilla would stock but would be a hell of a lot more than 20 units ordered at a time.

Same rule applies to retailer ordering. If you are a store that heavily stocks an item, chances are you will be able to offer a better price compared to your local bike shop that wont stock them but will order on request.

I don't blame people for shopping online and not buying local but I also don't take offence to the price inflation when buying something locally.

Customer service on the other hand is irrelevant. No excuse to have poor customer service anywhere in NZ and the ones that miss out on a sale because of it, bloody well deserve it!

This.
I don't know what music store you work at but it was buying music equipment that first started me down the path of sourcing all of my gear overseas.
I have got everything from guitars, drums, amps, leads even strings. The level of service you get out of stores in the states is next level. I've had stuff shipped out to me free, no questions asked, international priority mail whenever there was the slightest issue. Never had to write long emails explaining issues or ship items back, just replaced instantly, no fuss.
With all my bike gear I think I've got 1 pair of gloves from NZ and that was just a bargain bin type purchase. Other than that it's all from EU or USA. I'm not going to support stores in NZ who make it hard to purchase and bloat the price. Why would we? I don't mean to sound harsh but isn't the bottom line; if these stores die in NZ, the public just go online and purchase from overseas stores with better service and better prices anyway right? So what's the motivation to support these NZ retailers?

[breakaway]

I would like to reference the below thread about how a 'supplier' forced a local store to gouge the fuck out of their customers. Not motorcycle related but the same principle applies.

http://www.gpforums.co.nz/threads/458463-Sennheiser-Pricing-Update-from-Computer-Lounge

The thing is, despite the Supplier/Importer causing the price inflation, the customer base is going to interpret the prices as the shops trying to gouge the customer. Most people have no idea of how things work, nor the inclination to figure it out.

It seems no one (shops) cares enough to rectify the situation (i.e. talk to someone higher up in the chain). They just whinge about how hard it is to run a business in NZ and how "New Zealand is too small, can't do anything about it".

They said the same thing about internet in NZ. Internet was horrendously expensive. Not uncommon to pay over $140 for over 100GB of data. 200GB plans were virtually unheard of. Then practically overnight, unlimited ADSL/VDSL plans were available for next to nothing. What changed? Unbundling (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Local-loop_unbundling#New_Zealand). The govt sacked up and saw that Telecom (Spark) were either greedy or incompetent (or both) and resolved the situation. Artificial 'limitations' designed to maximise profits were removed. The govt essentially stepped in and stopped Telecom from charging the earth to other ISPs. As a result, broadband uptake and speeds rival and even surpass Australia now.

I guess what I am driving at is, something similar needs to happen in this industry as well. In the age of cheap global shipping, international purchasing is easier, safer and faster than ever and the local businesses need to adapt if they want to thrive. If that means challenging the supplier, so be it. Burying head in the sand and screaming the same bullshit excuse that they've been using for the past few decades isn't going to fly anymore.

[Edbear]

I would like to reference the below thread about how a 'supplier' forced a local store to gouge the fuck out of their customers. Not motorcycle related but the same principle applies.

http://www.gpforums.co.nz/threads/458463-Sennheiser-Pricing-Update-from-Computer-Lounge

The thing is, despite the Supplier/Importer causing the price inflation, the customer base is going to interpret the prices as the shops trying to gouge the customer. Most people have no idea of how things work, nor the inclination to figure it out.

It seems no one (shops) cares enough to rectify the situation (i.e. talk to someone higher up in the chain). They just whinge about how hard it is to run a business in NZ and how "New Zealand is too small, can't do anything about it".

They said the same thing about internet in NZ. Internet was horrendously expensive. Not uncommon to pay over $140 for over 100GB of data. 200GB plans were virtually unheard of. Then practically overnight, unlimited ADSL/VDSL plans were available for next to nothing. What changed? Unbundling (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Local-loop_unbundling#New_Zealand). The govt sacked up and saw that Telecom (Spark) were either greedy or incompetent (or both) and resolved the situation. Artificial 'limitations' designed to maximise profits were removed. The govt essentially stepped in and stopped Telecom from charging the earth to other ISPs. As a result, broadband uptake and speeds rival and even surpass Australia now.

I guess what I am driving at is, something similar needs to happen in this industry as well. In the age of cheap global shipping, international purchasing is easier, safer and faster than ever and the local businesses need to adapt if they want to thrive. If that means challenging the supplier, so be it. Burying head in the sand and screaming the same bullshit excuse that they've been using for the past few decades isn't going to fly anymore.

In defense of some, it can be difficult when importing to keep the NZ retail price close enough to the Overseas price without low overheads. I priced the batteries retail as close as I could to the US price taking into account GST, freight and the exchange rate. So my margin as the National Distributor to my dealers is very tight. The fact that I work from home means overheads are very low with no shop space or wages to cover. I doubt I could compete otherwise.

[5ive]

If I don't know how to fix/install something, and I don't have time to learn how, I'll happily pay the market rate for parts and local labour.

I won't however pay someone else twice the price just to jump on the internet and order a product from an overseas supplier. I can already do that myself...

[breakaway]

In defense of some, it can be difficult when importing to keep the NZ retail price close enough to the Overseas price without low overheads. I priced the batteries retail as close as I could to the US price taking into account GST, freight and the exchange rate. So my margin as the National Distributor to my dealers is very tight. The fact that I work from home means overheads are very low with no shop space or wages to cover. I doubt I could compete otherwise.

I can appreciate the concept of volume. There is definitely truth to NZ being a small market and therefore smaller volume which means higher unit prices. What I do take issue with however is this fact being used to justify RIDICULOUS prices on items, sometimes coupled with silly "ex japan" wait times.

I have no issue with paying a (fair) premium for the convenience of being able to go down to the shop and get what I want, right there and then. But if the premium is 2-400% of the item price, then forget it.

[Edbear]

I can appreciate the concept of volume. There is definitely truth to NZ being a small market and therefore smaller volume which means higher unit prices. What I do take issue with however is this fact being used to justify RIDICULOUS prices on items, sometimes coupled with silly "ex japan" wait times.

I have no issue with paying a (fair) premium for the convenience of being able to go down to the shop and get what I want, right there and then. But if the premium is 2-400% of the item price, then forget it.

I agree. The price needs to be justifiable.

[ckai]

I would like to reference the below thread about how a 'supplier' forced a local store to gouge the fuck out of their customers. Not motorcycle related but the same principle applies.

http://www.gpforums.co.nz/threads/458463-Sennheiser-Pricing-Update-from-Computer-Lounge

.

Ahhhh, this makes sense now. I brought a pair of Sennheisers around that time from them and when I brought some more headphones just recently, I could have sworn I didn't pay anywhere near what they have them listed for now. Makes the price I paid seem like a steal.

I do think distributors need more of the blame regarding NZ pricing. Some retailers must get pissed off with the attitude towards them when it doesn't have that much to do with them. Oh well, the only way it'll change is when the distributors go out of business, and just like it is in Kiwiland, blame everyone else apart from themselves.

[Katman]

I don't mean to sound harsh but isn't the bottom line; if these stores die in NZ, the public just go online and purchase from overseas stores with better service and better prices anyway right? So what's the motivation to support these NZ retailers?

Don't forget, you'd also miss out on the opportunity to try something on in a local shop before heading back to your computer to purchase from overseas though.

[Tazz]

I would like to reference the below thread about how a 'supplier' forced a local store to gouge the fuck out of their customers. Not motorcycle related but the same principle applies.

http://www.gpforums.co.nz/threads/458463-Sennheiser-Pricing-Update-from-Computer-Lounge

Ha! They say they discourage 'grey imports' and in the same breath pull that shit.
Good on that business for being transparent about it. Some would be worried about backlash from the wholesaler for that. Personally I'd just put them on sale for most of the year as a bit of a FU if I was happy with less than RRP.

[Crasherfromwayback]

Don't forget, you'd also miss out on the opportunity to try something on in a local shop before heading back to your computer to purchase from overseas though.

Lol. Or test ride a bike they want to buy privately off TM!

[catharsis]

Don't forget, you'd also miss out on the opportunity to try something on in a local shop before heading back to your computer to purchase from overseas though.

I don't really see that as an issue.
I could pay shipping and gst twice to get the size right and still be cheaper than NZ retail.
Never got the size wrong from the measurement charts yet though.

[Tazz]

In defense of some, it can be difficult when importing to keep the NZ retail price close enough to the Overseas price without low overheads. I priced the batteries retail as close as I could to the US price taking into account GST, freight and the exchange rate. So my margin as the National Distributor to my dealers is very tight. The fact that I work from home means overheads are very low with no shop space or wages to cover. I doubt I could compete otherwise.

Yes but as a wholesaler you want to be moving a large volume with a small margin. The idea is to have things priced so your customer can sell heaps and also make a dollar from them. This is where some wholesalers go wrong, they want a retail cut which pushes the price right up for the end user and makes it uncompetitive. It is the same as having a product go through one to many distributors adding their cut.


I can appreciate the concept of volume. There is definitely truth to NZ being a small market and therefore smaller volume which means higher unit prices. What I do take issue with however is this fact being used to justify RIDICULOUS prices on items, sometimes coupled with silly "ex japan" wait times.


Freight is a killer, although I worked for a parts place that used to put a markup on the freight charge too (air or sea) which I don't agree with. Pushed the price for air freight stuff up an insane amount.
Different story if your wrapping something in heaps of bubblewrap and throwing it in the courier yourself. I don't begrudge covering the cost of packaging.

[Big Dog]

You'd be lucky to find any bike shop that keeps steering head bearings in stock... our local shop doesn't even stock spark plugs now. There are so many variations its about $$$$ worth of stock to hold when they can be ordered in overnight as needed.
If you were a shop would you want your cash earning interest at bank or stuck in a set of head bearings sitting on shelf for six months....

Most good bike shops carry the most common plugs and bearings they sell. When the head bearings on my Hayabusa needed the all balls treatment they were in stock. Common part to many bigger bikes. The head bearing for the DR is in the shed somewhere. Was bought for my wife's GN. Same part etc.

Not carrying 2-300 worth at wholesale may save your inventory a little but will punch you in the bottom line if you don't. This does require a little analysis of past sales. But that is a part of running any retail outlet professionally.

I won't get work done in places that don't stock at least a range of these sorts of parts. I can't afford to be without my bike while I wait for them. But then I go in for a service I make sure the mechanic knows what is likely needed. E.g air filter is 40,000 old spark plugs only 6000 so they can have any unusual stock available when I drop the bike off


Stupid phone / Tapatalk, apologies in advance.

[Mike.Gayner]

In regard to the OP, you forgot customs duties ($47) and shipping, likely another 50odd, so your 650 local (@RRP) is 26% more than your 515 foreign (@ RRP-25%).

Where are you getting customs duties of $47? Most products have 0% duties including bike parts and almost all electronics. If you're talking about customs charges, you're talking about a couple of dollars once you've spread the cost across a container load of goods.

[mossy1200]

Where are you getting customs duties of $47? Most products have 0% duties including bike parts and almost all electronics. If you're talking about customs charges, you're talking about a couple of dollars once you've spread the cost across a container load of goods.

When you get hit with the over $400 including freight GST charge 15% you also get a handling and bio security charge on top of the GST now.

[SNF]

Yeah if its something I can't do - lack of skill/tools etc. I'll check pricing first. I just got brake pads for my bike front and rear, had a look on ebay $25 gets you a set. Found both sets here in NZ for $25 each on sale. Ferodo and EBC, good brands will happily rock them on my bike. I got lucky since they are on sale. Some stuff you see on TM and its just someone marking up off Ebay, screw that.

[bogan]

Where are you getting customs duties of $47? Most products have 0% duties including bike parts and almost all electronics. If you're talking about customs charges, you're talking about a couple of dollars once you've spread the cost across a container load of goods.

As mossy says, handling and biosecurity fee, go to the 'whatsmyduty' site to compare.

Once it is all said and done, you may well get it landed for the 25% less that it is on sale for, but as far as picking a product NZ retailers are 'taking the piss' on, you could do better...
Tbh, 25% would probably be enough to make me buy from overseas, and yes it is the overseas retailer who is selling at a cheaper the RRP to begin with, but I don't think you should be so quick to blame NZ retailers without knowing what the fuck you're even talking about.

I find overseas stuff is really god for cheap shit, ebay, aliexpress etc, but the trick is to have many irons in the fire at all times, thatway whenever something finally turns up (times can vary hugely) you got something to do :yes: and often it is like christmas when you forget what was ordered :D

[Mike.Gayner]

As mossy says, handling and biosecurity fee, go to the 'whatsmyduty' site to compare.

Those fees are relatively insignificant across a container of goods.


Once it is all said and done, you may well get it landed for the 25% less that it is on sale for, but as far as picking a product NZ retailers are 'taking the piss' on, you could do better...

I wound up going with the cheaper option, the SMH5. Landed in NZ for $256 from Amazon, versus $349 at Cycletreads. That's a difference of 36%, well worth the effort. And if you've ever dealt with Amazon you'd know their service leaves the NZ suppliers in the dust.

[Mike.Gayner]

When you get hit with the over $400 including freight GST charge 15% you also get a handling and bio security charge on top of the GST now.

I already accounted for GST. I'm asking how you came up with the (very specific) $47 "customs duty" charge on an item that carries no customs duty. Biosecurity charges are minor. I put a quote together with my brother in law (who is an importing agent, dealing with this stuff daily) for a container of food product - the biosecurity charges were insignificant, something like $800 on a container load. The container load was worth something like $25,000.

[bogan]

Those fees are relatively insignificant across a container of goods.



I wound up going with the cheaper option, the SMH5. Landed in NZ for $256 from Amazon, versus $349 at Cycletreads. That's a difference of 36%, well worth the effort. And if you've ever dealt with Amazon you'd know their service leaves the Z suppliers in the dust.

But they are not charged per container of goods, but per transaction. Go to the site, it'll tell you.

Again though, this is not a fair comparison, 256 is under the gst limit, add gst and import fee and you'd be up to 340 odd anyway. I've not dealt with amazon, but I'd question how many NZ suppliers you've dealt with and how reflective of their services your opinions are, I've been happy with CT's service for me, as well as many many other NZ companies. Maybe you're just a cunt?

[Madness]

Again though, this is not a fair comparison, 256 is under the gst limit, add gst and import fee and you'd be up to 340 odd anyway.

Yeah, but. Couldn't really justify starting a thread on KB about having just ordered a widget from 'treads, innit? Hardly riveting stuff, that.

Last one turn the lights out, eh?

[mossy1200]

I already accounted for GST. I'm asking how you came up with the (very specific) $47 "customs duty" charge on an item that carries no customs duty. Biosecurity charges are minor. I put a quote together with my brother in law (who is an importing agent, dealing with this stuff daily) for a container of food product - the biosecurity charges were insignificant, something like $800 on a container load. The container load was worth something like $25,000.

Im not buying a container load of parts at a time when I require one part.
$47.00 was the additional charge added onto the 15% I had to pay when I imported a header pipe.
It was made up of several smaller charges customs duty, bio security, processing fee and Handling fee and added up to $47.00(memory im not digging up receipts to get the exact figure).

Every time you get hit on an over $400 purchase you are liable for the extra fees now.
Im expecting $170 in tax on these in the next few weeks. A part that is made by hand in the UK that sells direct to customers and does not discount to dealerships. Made after ordered. Ok its different than trying to get a cheap deal but its still a fair bit to pay. The funny thing is the extra cost only applies when they want collect gst but you would assume processing a less valuable items would cost the same so its user pays and subsidises others if your item costs more.

[Mike.Gayner]

But they are not charged per container of goods, but per transaction. Go to the site, it'll tell you.

Again though, this is not a fair comparison, 256 is under the gst limit, add gst and import fee and you'd be up to 340 odd anyway. I've not dealt with amazon, but I'd question how many NZ suppliers you've dealt with and how reflective of their services your opinions are, I've been happy with CT's service for me, as well as many many other NZ companies. Maybe you're just a cunt?

$256 plus GST is $294, and there is no "import fee". Stop making shit up, private buyers don't pay any sort of duties, import duties on these things is 0% for commercial sellers, and fees for biosecurity etc for commercial dealers is insignificant (they're not bring in boxes, but containers).

I thought you were just a wanker when it came to batteries, turns out you're a wanker all together.

[bogan]

$256 plus GST is $294, and there is no "import fee". Stop making shit up, private buyers don't pay any sort of duties, import duties on these things is 0% for commercial sellers, and fees for biosecurity etc for commercial dealers is insignificant (they're not bring in boxes, but containers).

I thought you were just a wanker when it came to batteries, turns out you're a wanker all together.

You haven't been to that website have you? http://www.whatsmyduty.org.nz/whats-my-duty 500 NZD worth of auto parts just for examples sake.

Estimation Summary

Item Duty
Motor vehicle parts
Value: 500.00 NZD
Duty: 0.00 NZD
GST: 75.00 NZD
75.00 NZD
GST on freight 0.00 NZD
Total 75.00 NZD
IETF* 46.89 NZD
Amount due 121.89 NZD
*Import entry transaction fee:
Once the threshold of $60 of duty and/or GST payable is reached, then an import entry transaction fee (IETF) of NZ$46.89 (GST inclusive) is also payable. This includes the Ministry for Primary Industries biosecurity system entry levy of $17.63 (GST inclusive).

Meh, I'm a wanker who is;
a) right (just like for batteries)
b) getting damn good service from the locals
so I'm completely fine with that :woohoo:

[Pumba]

.........head bearings on my Hayabusa needed the all balls treatment they were in stock. Common part to many bigger bikes. The head bearing for the DR is in the shed somewhere. Was bought for my wife's GN. Same part etc.

Suzuki is pretty good like that. Most of there 250's used the same head bearings

[mossy1200]

$256 plus GST is $294, and there is no "import fee". Stop making shit up, private buyers don't pay any sort of duties, import duties on these things is 0% for commercial sellers, and fees for biosecurity etc for commercial dealers is insignificant (they're not bring in boxes, but containers).

I thought you were just a wanker when it came to batteries, turns out you're a wanker all together.

Why dont you try buying something for over $400NZD including freight and claim there is no extra import fees after gst.

The topic is about bypassing your dealer to buying an item not importing yourself a container of parts.
Now your claiming people are mast...ing..
You need to take a time out and a chill pill. Some soap in your mouth could help also.

[The Reibz]

You'd be lucky to find any bike shop that keeps steering head bearings in stock... our local shop doesn't even stock spark plugs now. There are so many variations its about $$$$ worth of stock to hold when they can be ordered in overnight as needed.
If you were a shop would you want your cash earning interest at bank or stuck in a set of head bearings sitting on shelf for six months....

I'd want bearings for popular models of bike such as the Hayabusa on the shelf so that the customer can get them asap. They actually had around 30 on the shelf, but when you fail to stock even basic items such as brakepads in your workshop thats kind of the line for me.

I would never own a bikeshop, cunts generally work in them and there are easier ways to become broke. Such as gambling, alcohol and hard drugs. All which would be a hell of alot better than having to deal with NZ Harley owners day in day out.

[BlackSheepLogic]

I'd want bearings for popular models of bike such as the Hayabusa on the shelf so that the customer can get them asap. They actually had around 30 on the shelf, but when you fail to stock even basic items such as brakepads in your workshop thats kind of the line for me.

Even if it's not on the shelf but the distributers made an effort to get a listed item I would support the NZ shops even if I had to pay a few dollars more.

However, my experience when I tried to buy locally was that the distributers think they are the only source so they screw you on the price and then take a couple of months to get in the order. I can call up a dealer in the US and get the item cheaper (including the shipping cost) and often within a week. I also have someone to talk to who knows the product lines they stock.

I'm not saying all distributors in NZ are bad (the shorai distributers who posts here was great) but there are a lot of pretty bad ones out there and for the most part if I need something I call a dealer in the US now.

[Voltaire]

I get all my 70's BMW parts from the UK, they are on my doorstep in 5 days.

Last lot was $1220.23
Bank charges were $22
Customs took $203.38

15% on $1220.23 is $183
Not seeing $46 there.

BMW NZ can get parts but they are not really interested ( stupid high prices and long lead times) so they can jolly well get stuffed.

I do support the local craft breweries :Punk:

[catharsis]

Like I've said, I've imported gear countless times and have NEVER been charged an IETF once.
It's great that the same old nay-sayers can find a link so they can flex their e-peen in yet another pointless online argument but fact is; you can import without having to pay that feel. I would say on about 30% of the stuff I've brought in over $400 they have neglected to charge me GST as well.
Shrug.
It happens.

[Katman]

Like I've said, I've imported gear countless times and have NEVER been charged an IETF once.
It's great that the same old nay-sayers can find a link so they can flex their e-peen in yet another pointless online argument but fact is; you can import without having to pay that feel. I would say on about 30% of the stuff I've brought in over $400 they have neglected to charge me GST as well.
Shrug.
It happens.

Doesn't work like that for businesses.

[yod]

I imported jacket, pants, helmet and 3 pairs of gloves in the last 3-4 months. Where the goods were subject to GST/duty an additional fee WAS charged every time and was, as stated above, about $46 and some odd cents.

I actually discussed this at length with several customs staff over a period of a few days when they were trying to charge me duty and gst on the pants (I felt they should be classed as safety eqpt, not clothing, which is exempt from duty - they agreed eventually) - anyhoo, the calculation was: If the TOTAL of duty and GST exceeds $60 then you are charged the duty and GST AS WELL AS the import fee of $46.xx - so you really cant get away with total fees of less than $106ish (if they're applied at all).

Bear in mind the $60 is a guideline - they don't always charge it. I somehow got away with the jacket which came in at a scratch over $400. In a lot of cases it will come down to how the goods have been described on the shipping docs.

[James Deuce]

I always price potential imports as including all applicable importation costs. If I'm saving more than 20% I'll buy it. I sure as hell don't go in there sniggering behind my hand that I'm not paying tax or duty. Those things are there for fairly sound economic reasons, BUT, there is a large gap in some instances between availability, reasonable lead times, and price when trying to get some motorcycle parts. For instance, you'd be an idiot to NOT use AF1 exclusively for EVERYTHING you need (except maybe tyres and chain and sprockets) if you own an Aprilia or a Moto Guzzi. If I want boots with toe sliders, I HAVE to import them. No one carries a size 48 boot with toe sliders and if I ask someone to order me some, it's an odds on chance for me to wait 3 months and then find them on backorder.

[Katman]

If I want boots with toe sliders, I HAVE to import them. No one carries a size 48 boot with toe sliders and if I ask someone to order me some, it's an odds on chance for me to wait 3 months and then find them on backorder.

http://www.lifestyle-imports.co.nz/shop/product_info.php?cPath=40_46&products_id=207

[James Deuce]

http://www.lifestyle-imports.co.nz/shop/product_info.php?cPath=40_46&products_id=207

Thanks for that. Last time I looked at the site, anything over 47 was specifically excluded from having sliders. One Tonne do the same also. However, it has to be said, that's a lot of ugly real estate on the shin and won't go under me leather jeans.

[xen]

If I want boots with toe sliders, I HAVE to import them. No one carries a size 48 boot with toe sliders and if I ask someone to order me some, it's an odds on chance for me to wait 3 months and then find them on backorder.

http://www.motoone.co.nz/sidi-st-road-boots

Also Vertigo & Fusion in 48 but maybe taking the piss?

[James Deuce]

Again, lots of super ugly and completely unnecessary real estate on the shin. I'd like some touring boots with toe sliders. I used to have some good, waterproof TCX ones. Waterproof doesn't work when you have to tuck your trousers into your boots. But thank you for the thought.

[F5 Dave]

O bought some of those lifestyle boots for racing as in nz getting a non Gortex boot (bulky and hot for racing) less than $600 is difficult and any contenders are too narrow thus give me cramp. I was sceptical when shop suggested to get some in to try. But you know- totally exceeded my expectations.

[yod]

I always price potential imports as including all applicable importation costs. If I'm saving more than 20% I'll buy it.

My thoughts exactly. The jacket I got is a perfect example. I landed it for $407, if I could have bought the jacket here for $500 I probably would have, but it retails for $699. Not only that, the other side of it is generally the variety you can obtain from Europe is immensely broader than the 1 or 2 styles/colour options you might be able to get here.

[Big Dog]

Again, lots of super ugly and completely unnecessary real estate on the shin. I'd like some touring boots with toe sliders. I used to have some good, waterproof TCX ones. Waterproof doesn't work when you have to tuck your trousers into your boots. But thank you for the thought.

You got big feet fella.

I thought mine were big.
Gaerne and Johnny Reb seem to be my only choices. The rest even if they go big enough are not wide enough across the bridge. 47 or 47.5 for last 3 pairs.

Girth is harder to accommodate than length.

You know what they say about big feet?
































Fucking hard to find good boots!


Stupid phone / Tapatalk, apologies in advance.

[bogan]

Like I've said, I've imported gear countless times and have NEVER been charged an IETF once.
It's great that the same old nay-sayers can find a link so they can flex their e-peen in yet another pointless online argument but fact is; you can import without having to pay that feel. I would say on about 30% of the stuff I've brought in over $400 they have neglected to charge me GST as well.
Shrug.
It happens.

This just in, catharsis has figured out if you don't pay taxes you can get things cheaper.

More breaking news at 11 :facepalm:

[catharsis]

errrr wot?

I figured out through many orders (that would come home much cheaper, gst, shipping, duties or not) that a surprisingly large percentage will not incur any charges, gst or otherwise.
Comprehension not your strongest attribute I see, don't worry pal, I'm sure you're probably a real charmer.

[bogan]

errrr wot?

I figured out through many orders (that would come home much cheaper, gst, shipping, duties or not) that a surprisingly large percentage will not incur any charges, gst or otherwise.
Comprehension not your strongest attribute I see, don't worry pal, I'm sure you're probably a real charmer.

The point is you can't compare imported stuff which doesn't have GST charged on it, to local stuff that does, and go wow those local guys are just creaming it.

The procedure is ridiculously simple, find local price, find import price and add shipping + gst/duties on that to get the final price on private imports. If final price is sufficiently less than local price in order to offset other factors like pre/after sales service you buy it, if it isn't you buy local.

Comprehension is fine, I was just making the rather on-topic counterpoint that playing the tax evasion lottery on imports isn't fair to local dealers.

[catharsis]

You mean like my earlier post where I said that I could pay shipping and gst twice on some of my orders and still have it come in cheaper than the same item locally?
Like that?

[bogan]

You mean like my earlier post where I said that I could pay shipping and gst twice on some of my orders and still have it come in cheaper than the same item locally?
Like that?

Exactly like that :yes:

[catharsis]

Glad we agree.
So yeah, unless I'm incredibly lazy and have just had a ridiculous bonus, I'll stick to overseas service and price over local shops any day.

[bogan]

Glad we agree.
So yeah, unless I'm incredibly lazy and have just had a ridiculous bonus, I'll stick to overseas service and price over local shops any day.

Not like that all the time though is it. For instance I got some bloke dropping off some parts, to my door, tomorrow because they didn't have em in stock when I went around this morning. The prices are also competitive with overseas, business account holder discount with them, and no waiting (this is most important). There is a place for local, and a place for overseas imports, and even a place for national (cos next day parts to my door after firing off one email is just good time management); learning when/which/why just makes good sense.

[R650R]

I'd want bearings for popular models of bike such as the Hayabusa on the shelf so that the customer can get them asap. They actually had around 30 on the shelf, but when you fail to stock even basic items such as brakepads in your workshop thats kind of the line for me.

I would never own a bikeshop, cunts generally work in them and there are easier ways to become broke. Such as gambling, alcohol and hard drugs. All which would be a hell of alot better than having to deal with NZ Harley owners day in day out.

Head bearings are not something you suddenly wear out, I don't think its a critical part that bike shops should keep in stock instead of overnighting it when needed. You copuld still ride around for a day or two no worries once discovering they need replacing albeit you might not be wof status...
My GSXR has had plenty of cack handed rough landings from wheelies and still on original head bearings at 110,000km...

[Big Dog]

Head bearings are not something you suddenly wear out, I don't think its a critical part that bike shops should keep in stock instead of overnighting it when needed. You copuld still ride around for a day or two no worries once discovering they need replacing albeit you might not be wof status...
My GSXR has had plenty of cack handed rough landings from wheelies and still on original head bearings at 110,000km...

Aye, but it is usually the critical parts that are super specialist, and it tends to be short notice you discover you have an issue if you ride every day because the damage is so gradual.
I don't expect there will be a throttle cable in stock for my DR350 because it is not used under the same part number for any other bike.
I believe but aint willing to part with cash to find out that the Djebel and the electric leg 350 and 400s use the same part under a different number, but if your wrong then you have parts you can't use.

Carrying a range of Universal parts for sure.
Head bearings that wander out the door at a dozen a month for sure.
Parts you only sell occasionally and to a limited market... no.

A more sensible approach would be to own a common model of bike that has a lot of shared parts with other bikes. far higher probability someone will have the bit you need that day.
Same reason I have a set of spare levers for 350 somewhere. Apparently the levers for that sub model are not common to any other Suzuki. They are common to a couple of Hondas and even a KTM or two but bugger trying to work that out on a weekend when you need to ride the thing to work on monday.

Which reminds me need to keep an eye out for some cheap levers, a spare key and anything else likely to leave me stranded in Tuakau if I dropped the bike in the garage.
Come to mention given some of the chatter in my charging thread I might be best to keep an ebay out for a regulator rectifier on special.

[BlackSheepLogic]

My thoughts exactly. The jacket I got is a perfect example. I landed it for $407, if I could have bought the jacket here for $500 I probably would have, but it retails for $699. Not only that, the other side of it is generally the variety you can obtain from Europe is immensely broader than the 1 or 2 styles/colour options you might be able to get here.

Well as I've said on this thread I've been getting items for my bike from the US due to price, selection, knowledge, and attitude of some NZ distributors.

However, we still have a small number of small business that actually make riding gear here and won't compete on the very low end but they are competitive on quality riding gear which will last for years.

[Swoop]

Girth is harder to accommodate than length.

The Kiwi foot is wider than the European foot. Something to do with growing up in bare feet, apparently...

It must be a nightmare stocking/supplying footwear in this country.:crazy:

[James Deuce]

The Kiwi foot is wider than the European foot. Something to do with growing up in bare feet, apparently...

It must be a nightmare stocking/supplying footwear in this country.:crazy:

It isn't because they simply don't stock footwear I can buy. Sizes generally run to a size 12UK in about 30% of any men's range and they'll be an "E" fitment, not EE. There is massive variation in actual size too. One company's size 13 may not be an actual size 13(UK) despite the labeling. There is one shop in Upper Hutt that gets in decent quality shoes at reasonable prices and it is a multi-generational family-owned business. I make a twice a year pilgrimage and buy some size 13(UK) Hush Puppies for work and a pair of Scholl's walking or running shoes. Usually swallows up about $500. Oddly, sports shoe shops generally run to Size 12 UK and then start again at size 15.

I can't buy shoes or condoms. This country sucks.

[F5 Dave]

Just wrap them around twice and add another rubber band, that's what I do.

[James Deuce]

Somewhat Heath Robinson, but I shall give that a try.

[BlackSheepLogic]

You might want to look into getting some custom boots made. I have a couple of everyday wear boots that are ten years old. I have them repaired (usually they just new soles/heals). They cost a lot at the time but ten years on I'm still wearing them. Well worth the cost.



It isn't because they simply don't stock footwear I can buy. Sizes generally run to a size 12UK in about 30% of any men's range and they'll be an "E" fitment, not EE. There is massive variation in actual size too. One company's size 13 may not be an actual size 13(UK) despite the labeling. There is one shop in Upper Hutt that gets in decent quality shoes at reasonable prices and it is a multi-generational family-owned business. I make a twice a year pilgrimage and buy some size 13(UK) Hush Puppies for work and a pair of Scholl's walking or running shoes. Usually swallows up about $500. Oddly, sports shoe shops generally run to Size 12 UK and then start again at size 15.

I can't buy shoes or condoms. This country sucks.

[Crasherfromwayback]

My GSXR has had plenty of cack handed rough landings from wheelies and still on original head bearings at 110,000km...

Why do people think bad landings from wheelies fucks steering head bearings anyway?

[Ender EnZed]

Why do people think bad landings from wheelies fucks steering head bearings anyway?

Well, I read it on the internet.

[James Deuce]

You might want to look into getting some custom boots made. I have a couple of everyday wear boots that are ten years old. I have them repaired (usually they just new soles/heals). They cost a lot at the time but ten years on I'm still wearing them. Well worth the cost.
Cheaper to self-import from known manufacturers or find a friend. I looked at that in the mid-2000 and the people I spoke to were a bit but vague about reinforced heels and sole and ankle protection and wanted about $1200. I have a nice pair of Dainese boots that are comfy to wear all day and were $400. Leather Direct in Cuba St got them in for me. They will wear out though. Sigh.

[Crasherfromwayback]

Well, I read it on the internet.

Lol. Reckon. If that was a fact...poor old moto-x bikes would be putting new brgs in every second ride.

[bogan]

Why do people think bad landings from wheelies fucks steering head bearings anyway?

Doug told me so :innocent:


Shock loads are bad for bearings though, not explode after one hit bad, but I'd expect em to last longer in my bike than Dougs :sunny:

[Big Dog]

I would have thought year round riding without regular re packing of the bearings would so more harm? Or poor adjustment?
All three head bearings that died on my watch were daily riders that saw a lot of motorway use. All were Suzukis. All were on multiples of 30,000. GN had just hit 30,000. Hayabusa skipped 30, but needed some at 60,000. Gsx1100 needed at 30 and 90,000.

Not casting any aspersions but something I noticed. Every time it was picked up by a service that occurred every 6000 and only on numbers that only had one leading number.


Maybe I pay too much attention to servicing trends.


Stupid phone / Tapatalk, apologies in advance.

[Crasherfromwayback]

Shock loads are bad for bearings though, not explode after one hit bad, but I'd expect em to last longer in my bike than Dougs :sunny:

Absolutely mate. But the thing that makes most steering head brgs fuck out early is lack of grease and water/dirt contamination. A lot of the time dirt bike ones will last longer as they often have better seals to keep all the shit out compared to road bikes.

[Swoop]

Why do people think bad landings from wheelies fucks steering head bearings anyway?
They should buy a shaft driven bike.
You can't wheelie them!

[Big Dog]

Absolutely mate. But the thing that makes most steering head brgs fuck out early is lack of grease and water/dirt contamination. A lot of the time dirt bike ones will last longer as they often have better seals to keep all the shit out compared to road bikes.

They also often repack bearings as a regular piece of maintenance. IIRC my DR service guide includes re packing the top and checking the bottom bearing for notches every second service. Checking for notches top and bottom on the other service. My road bike manuals don't even list them.


Stupid phone / Tapatalk, apologies in advance.

[Ocean1]

Doug told me so :innocent:


Shock loads are bad for bearings though, not explode after one hit bad, but I'd expect em to last longer in my bike than Dougs :sunny:

Headstock bearings are hugely over-spec'd, mostly because the shaft and housing need to be structurally heavier than the bearing that happens to fit that space.

http://www.timken.com/sites/newproducts/en-us/typee/Documents/Tapered_Roller_Bearing_Load_Rating_Selection_Table .pdf

Never mind landing a common wheelie, what height does an MX bike have to land from to generate G forces equivalent to those bearing load limits?

Hint: I'm not volunteering.

[Big Dog]

Headstock bearings are hugely over-spec'd, mostly because the shaft and housing need to be structurally heavier than the bearing that happens to fit that space.

http://www.timken.com/sites/newproducts/en-us/typee/Documents/Tapered_Roller_Bearing_Load_Rating_Selection_Table .pdf

Never mind landing a common wheelie, what height does an MX bike have to land from to generate G forces equivalent to those bearing load limits?

Hint: I'm not volunteering.

I can't read your link from my iPhone but I would suggest we are back in the age of evil kin evil jumping sportsters for distance?


Stupid phone / Tapatalk, apologies in advance.

[jasonu]

They should buy a shaft driven bike.
You can't wheelie them!

or a Hardley...

[Banditbandit]

They should buy a shaft driven bike.
You can't wheelie them!

A chick even ...

http://s10.postimg.org/lrhwhlh8l/guzzigirl.jpg

[Crasherfromwayback]

Headstock bearings are hugely over-spec'd, mostly because the shaft and housing need to be structurally heavier than the bearing that happens to fit that space.

http://www.timken.com/sites/newproducts/en-us/typee/Documents/Tapered_Roller_Bearing_Load_Rating_Selection_Table .pdf

Never mind landing a common wheelie, what height does an MX bike have to land from to generate G forces equivalent to those bearing load limits?

Hint: I'm not volunteering.

How's the load on this jump?

http://motocross.transworld.net/1000168511/news/robbie-maddisons-drop/?adbid=10152563193498031&adbpl=fb&adbpr=73232503030&sm_id=social_aumoautomobilemaghub_AutomobileMag_20 141107_35204137

[Crasherfromwayback]

or a Hardley...

Like these cats?

<iframe width="640" height="360" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/tgjg0_Js-bQ?feature=player_detailpage" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

[ellipsis]

Like these cats?




...it's obviously trick camera work Pete...we all know HD's just cant do that shit, eh...

[Ocean1]

How's the load on this jump?

http://motocross.transworld.net/1000168511/news/robbie-maddisons-drop/?adbid=10152563193498031&adbpl=fb&adbpr=73232503030&sm_id=social_aumoautomobilemaghub_AutomobileMag_20 141107_35204137

Fuck all actually. :laugh: Falling 50 metres at 9.8 m/s/s he's doing well over 100kph (vertical) on impact, but he cheated, the shape of the ground spread that impact out over several seconds.

Impressive control in the air though, I have enough trouble keeping the wheels pointing at the ground ON the ground.

[Big Dog]

Like these cats?

You can wheelie just about anything with enough motivation, a little mechanical insensitivity and in some cases modification.

The question is how motivated, rough and inventive are you prepared to be?

[Crasherfromwayback]

Fuck all actually. :laugh: Falling 50 metres at 9.8 m/s/s he's doing well over 100kph (vertical) on impact, but he cheated, the shape of the ground spread that impact out over several seconds.

Impressive control in the air though, I have enough trouble keeping the wheels pointing at the ground ON the ground.

Yeah fuck doing that for a joke!

[Crasherfromwayback]

The question is how motivated, rough and inventive are you prepared to be?

Reasonably most of the time.

[Big Dog]

Reasonably most of the time.

That reminds me of being told I couldn't put a wood screw in with a hammer. I think they meant shouldn't.


Stupid phone / Tapatalk, apologies in advance.