To import bike gear or not?

[michael]

My mate is heading over to the US soon and he asked if I wanted a helmet or anything else brought back with him. Is it that much cheaper over there? I dont really have the cash to spend but I figure if its gona save me lotsa $$$ then it should pay off in the long run? Any advice?

[skelstar]

www.ridersdiscount.com (for example)

Do the math yourself :)... its miles cheaper if you get the right size.

[Quasievil]

Do the math yourself :)... its miles cheaper if you get the right size.

mmm I saw Astars new one pieces suits and jackets for way cheaper than that site yesterday.
my advise DONT import if you get the wrong size there is no come back. pay a little = pay alot in the long run, youre better off spending a bit more now and have the assurances of back up service and come back if needed.

But I would say that wouldnt I

[disenfranchised]

A friend of mine swears by eBay...and it's usually not that hard to figure out the right size...especially if it's a brand you can try on locally.

I know it probably hurts the local retailers...but the prices can't be ignored, especially when the exchange rate is good.

I would be a little cautious though...there's a lot of clothing available on the internet that looks 100% guenuine, but is an unlicensed chinese knockoff.

If the prices seem to good to be true...they probably are...and you don't want second rate stitching impacting on your safety... do ya!

[Robert Taylor]

A friend of mine swears by eBay...and it's usually not that hard to figure out the right size...especially if it's a brand you can try on locally.

I know it probably hurts the local retailers...but the prices can't be ignored, especially when the exchange rate is good.

I would be a little cautious though...there's a lot of clothing available on the internet that looks 100% guenuine, but is an unlicensed chinese knockoff.

If the prices seem to good to be true...they probably are...and you don't want second rate stitching impacting on your safety... do ya!

So its alright then to make a convenience of the local retailers, trying on their gear knowing full well that you are not going to buy off them? Thats a pretty rotten thing to do.

[CB ARGH]

So its alright then to make a convenience of the local retailers, trying on their gear knowing full well that you are not going to buy off them? Thats a pretty rotten thing to do.

Or you can say "I can get this for fifty bucks overseas, beat it!"

Reminds me of the new Fall Out Boy song. :2guns:

EDIT: Hey, the smilie's gun in his right hand is broken! :o

[Robert Taylor]

Or you can say "I can get this for fifty bucks overseas, beat it!"

Reminds me of the new Fall Out Boy song. :2guns:

EDIT: Hey, the smilie's gun in his right hand is broken! :o

Well, you better hope then that you are not in an industry that is affected by overseas internet purchases, and to that end will be considering layoffs. When there are very few retailers left dont complain. I stand resolutely by what I said.

[Quasievil]

So its alright then to make a convenience of the local retailers, trying on their gear knowing full well that you are not going to buy off them? Thats a pretty rotten thing to do.

Yes youre bang on there mate, I agree.

[michael]

So it seems like Im stuck between a rock and a hard place. Importing is cheaper as Im a rediculously poor student, but kinda dont wana piss off shops by trying on gear just to waste their time.

[Quasievil]

So it seems like Im stuck between a rock and a hard place. Importing is cheaper as Im a rediculously poor student, but kinda dont wana piss off shops by trying on gear just to waste their time.

What do you want to get anyway, alot of countires have different sizings also, ie helmets, I remember going to a ARAI seminar and them telling us that a USA an JAPAN and a EURO helmets have a different sizings, so thats something else to consider. Another story is I went to the SEMA show in Vegus a few years back and a mate asked me to pick up a Joe Rocket one peice suit he ordered online, he got it sent to my hotel and I brought it back, guess what, it didnt fit now he has a suit that has to be sold so he can fund a new one from NZ, he ended up paying more but at least it fitted .

Buy NZ

[michael]

I havn't actually thought of that. I wanted a Shoei or Arai helmet. I also read a thread this morning about helmet safety ratings, and more expensive doesn't always mean safer. After all we dont only buy helmets cause they look cool, they also happen to stop our skulls of cracking

[firefighter]

I havn't actually thought of that. I wanted a Shoei or Arai helmet. I also read a thread this morning about helmet safety ratings, and more expensive doesn't always mean safer. After all we dont only buy helmets cause they look cool, they also happen to stop our skulls of cracking

That's presicely correct, my oldman had a shitty old (i still don't recommend that!) HJC helmet, cheap as, saved his life when a 15 year old girl pulled out in front of him, I personally like a more expensive helmet, as they are usually quieter and more comfortable (not always my suomy is fkn loud) and if his cheap piece of crap saved him then i'm sure whatever you get will be fine, go for a trusted brand that fits well and is on sale, ignore the other bullshit.

[Quasievil]

I havn't actually thought of that. I wanted a Shoei or Arai helmet. I also read a thread this morning about helmet safety ratings, and more expensive doesn't always mean safer. After all we dont only buy helmets cause they look cool, they also happen to stop our skulls of cracking

Just get the best you can afford dude and a reputable Brand ie not SIM JUK NUK helmet company, gor for a good cheaper brand ie KBC, HJC etc.
Ratings you want to see are , DOT, SNELL , if they have these you should be sweet, then comes the right size and fitting but thats what retailers do, they can advise you and give you the right fit and service at sale and after sale, thats why its worth paying a bit more.

[Quasievil]

Also if youre still confused get a experienced (not a pretend experienced rider which KB is full of) and get them to go with you to Motomail or something to look at helmets.

[firefighter]

Just get the best you can afford dude and a reputable Brand ie not SIM JUK NUK helmet company, gor for a good cheaper brand ie KBC, HJC etc.
Ratings you want to see are , DOT, SNELL , if they have these you should be sweet, then comes the right size and fitting but thats what retailers do, they can advise you and give you the right fit and service at sale and after sale, thats why its worth paying a bit more.

yeah I agree if your not sure how your helmet should fit definately get a retailer to help you out or your guaranteed to get one too big....they don't mind helping you that's their job, and just becuase you take up 20mins of their time you don't have to buy it! they know you wanna shop around.....and if they really are selling a good product for a good price they know you will be back anyway.....

[P38]

So its alright then to make a convenience of the local retailers, trying on their gear knowing full well that you are not going to buy off them? Thats a pretty rotten thing to do.

Is it pretty rotten to test ride two bikes from different local dealerships, knowing full well your only gonna buy from one of them?

Cant see the difference really after all we are in a global market place.

Just wait till the local guys feel the full force of the double whammy of free trade with China and parallel importing.

I bought a helmet and some multi media gear for it recently from the states via the web... saved over $400 even after I paid the priority shipping and GST.

Three out of four local guys did not follow up on my enquires dispite them saying they would.
One did follow up... unfortunately they did so three weeks after my Helmet arrived from the States and they were $400 dearer.

and I wasted my saturday morning doing the rounds of their shops.

Sharpen up or Ship off I say.

[Robert Taylor]

Is it pretty rotten to test ride two bikes from different local dealerships, knowing full well your only gonna buy from one of them?

Cant see the difference really after all we are in a global market place.

Just wait till the local guys feel the full force of the double whammy of free trade with China and parallel importing.

I bought a helmet and some multi media gear for it recently from the states via the web... saved over $400 even after I paid the priority shipping and GST.

Three out of four local guys did not follow up on my enquires dispite them saying they would.
One did follow up... unfortunately they did so three weeks after my Helmet arrived from the States and they were $400 dearer.

and I wasted my saturday morning doing the rounds of their shops.

Sharpen up or Ship off I say.

Some of us are committed patriots to our country and to local business employing our own folk. How about someone doing the maths how this is affecting NZ business and employment. We cant all be civil servants and other forms of state beneficiaries.
Its not a level playing field.

[awayatc]

Some of us are committed patriots to our country and to local business employing our own folk. How about someone doing the maths how this is affecting NZ business and employment. We cant all be civil servants and other forms of state beneficiaries.
Its not a level playing field.

That is a great sentiment, one I wish The NZ government (just to name one )would have taken to heart......
The other day All blacks playing Ireland....All blacks in German Adidas gear, and Irish in CCC gear......(just to name one example)
Something wrong with this world...... I didn't start this Cheap outscoring shit, and it sucks I agree...
But If nobody else can look after me, I better do it myself, so I buy where I get best value for my money.
Sorry, can't afford not to...:chase:

[Robert Taylor]

That is a great sentiment, one I wish The NZ government (just to name one )would have taken to heart......
The other day All blacks playing Ireland....All blacks in German Adidas gear, and Irish in CCC gear......(just to name one example)
Something wrong with this world...... I didn't start this Cheap outscoring shit, and it sucks I agree...
But If nobody else can look after me, I better do it myself, so I buy where I get best value for my money.
Sorry, can't afford not to...:chase:

Absolutely, and I do hear where you are coming from re affordability. Our living standards have in real terms dropped and we need armed insurrection to reposition the goalposts so we are actually looking after our own.
I think too many give no thought whatsoever where all this nonsense is leading to.

[svr]

Some of us are committed patriots to our country and to local business employing our own folk. How about someone doing the maths how this is affecting NZ business and employment. We cant all be civil servants and other forms of state beneficiaries.
Its not a level playing field.

The thing is this:
If you receive quality, courteous, extertise and after market service you are happy to pay the extra (e.g. RT for suspension, the guys here at Darryl August for bikes and parts). They give you `free' advice and the type of service that saves you in the long run
On the other hand if you get shit service from some 22 yr old spikey haired mxer / motarder know it all (but knows nuthin) who is also talking down to you you think: `fuckit, why spend a premium for this?'
So it works both ways. While NZ customer service still has some work to do, the best thing you can do is support the best local retailers.

[Qkchk]

Also if youre still confused get a experienced (not a pretend experienced rider which KB is full of) and get them to go with you to Motomail or something to look at helmets.

What are you trying to say Quasi? :laugh:

[blossomsowner]

i would be very cagey about importing as there are the already stated risks of sizing and quality to worry about. Also even if the actual size is ok it may not be comfortable or quite what you wanted for some reason.

i have noted a change in my preferences lately and excellent service is now really important to me. i hate the slack service so often found in local retailers these days. Find someone who gives good service........good products and good price.......there are still some out there. I'm sure quasi will volunteer.

[Quasievil]

i would be very cagey about importing as there are the already stated risks of sizing and quality to worry about. Also even if the actual size is ok it may not be comfortable or quite what you wanted for some reason.

i have noted a change in my preferences lately and excellent service is now really important to me. i hate the slack service so often found in local retailers these days. Find someone who gives good service........good products and good price.......there are still some out there. I'm sure quasi will volunteer.

(quasi) Puts hand up really high and promises to be a good retailer !

[CHOPPA]

I will import stuff i cant get locally, some stuff i have made some impulse decisions on ebay have all been wrong fit and i have had to re sell it. Sometimes it cost a little extra to buy locally but you gotta support the shops, as far as the arai thing about diff fits i got a rx7 corsair off trade me and ive had several and i thought it was mint but i just got a nz new one a couple of weeks back and they are totally diff they are both medium but the nz version is much tighter and actually has a smaller shell size!!

Go see speed-tech.co.nz and ask them to price you up an arai

[wildcat_lgf]

If the parts you want are that much cheaper buy a couple of them in different sizes...then flick the one you don't want. Simple.

I find its not often worth the effort for 1 individual item, but for a few items it might be worth it (plus you don't have to pay freight)...or you could keep the other helmet/part/whatever as a spare.

[twotyred]

It's your money, if you are certain of your size and have the chance of a mate bringing it back for cheaper than the same product here go for it.

[Robert Taylor]

It's your money, if you are certain of your size and have the chance of a mate bringing it back for cheaper than the same product here go for it.

And if it doesnt fit dont have the unbelievable cheek of going into your local bike shop and asking to exchange. This actually does happen, you cannot have your cake and eat it too.

[Swoop]

If it is something that has to fit your body/phisique You are better off purchasing locally. As said before, if something dosen't fit properly, you have a major problem.
If it is a bog-standard XYZ part from a bike, get prices from anywhere. The local stealerships should have the advantage of "buying in bulk" and being competitive with the shipping prices Vs your single item shipping.

[gunrunner]

A friend of mine swears by eBay...and it's usually not that hard to figure out the right size...especially if it's a brand you can try on locally.

I know it probably hurts the local retailers...but the prices can't be ignored, especially when the exchange rate is good.

I would be a little cautious though...there's a lot of clothing available on the internet that looks 100% guenuine, but is an unlicensed chinese knockoff.

If the prices seem to good to be true...they probably are...and you don't want second rate stitching impacting on your safety... do ya!

I think we have been paying to much for to long , yes it hurts the local trade but then again most of them import it in from overseas anyway and make the profit , do ya homework on the sizes and you will save shitloads:2thumbsup

[WildDuck]

Helmets are all imported anyway so sizing will be same as overseas and doesn't hurt local manufacturers.
Just make sure he takes it out of the packaging so he doesn't pay duty bringing it back.

[Robert Taylor]

If it is something that has to fit your body/phisique You are better off purchasing locally. As said before, if something dosen't fit properly, you have a major problem.
If it is a bog-standard XYZ part from a bike, get prices from anywhere. The local stealerships should have the advantage of "buying in bulk" and being competitive with the shipping prices Vs your single item shipping.

This is in fact the whole misconception clearly identified by your term ''stealerships''. It hasnt escaped everyones attention that many ( most )motorcycle dealerships dont survive until old age, BECAUSE the after tax profit just isnt there. If you dont believe me, try it as many have done and come unstuck. ( My own time was successful because I had the training and long experience beforehand ) So often I have heard to the effect, ''we are going to do it better and make sh..loads of money.'' Then theres the realisation, operating costs, taxes, levies, indifferent staff, warranty issues and poor reimbursement, technical issues that are very complex, a plethora of suppliers and product, credit control issues, cashflow issues...and more often than not you are in a ''dutch auction'' with not only other dealers but all of the overseas internet parasite companies.
The world is not a level playing field. Yankee companies are able to purchase many items of stock at bulk discounts just on the size of their domestic market alone. Because of volume they are able to operate on much slimmer margins. Their current weak dollar makes it attractive for overseas purchasers and also easy to parasite sales into these markets. They dont care a rats ar.e that the local authorised distributors in the markets they rape have often serious investments in stock and infrastructure and actually ( despite the unfairness of it all ) contribute to the local economy and employment.
I think more people should look at the bigger picture and look at the long term damage this is doing to our own local economy and infrastructure.

[Robert Taylor]

Helmets are all imported anyway so sizing will be same as overseas and doesn't hurt local manufacturers.
Just make sure he takes it out of the packaging so he doesn't pay duty bringing it back.

So why shouldnt he pay duty if the local importers have to? Thats hardly fair.

[MadDuck]

For me its about range - or lack of it when it comes to NZ (Auckland mostly) bike shops.

I have always supported local where possible but am sick of having jackets where the sleeves are too long and ending up with blokes bike pants because most gear retailers think all female riders are tall and skinny.

To get anything remotely feminine means starting to look at the internet for alternatives. Most stores in NZ appear to think that by having something with a touch of pink on it makes it popular to all females....the joys of being in the minority I guess ;)

[Mully]

So why shouldnt he pay duty if the local importers have to? Thats hardly fair.

Helmets are Duty free, I suspect he means GST.

Anyway Robert, support your view. Providing bike shops have good service locally, I will continue to buy locally.

[Robert Taylor]

For me its about range - or lack of it when it comes to NZ (Auckland mostly) bike shops.

I have always supported local where possible but am sick of having jackets where the sleeves are too long and ending up with blokes bike pants because most gear retailers think all female riders are tall and skinny.

To get anything remotely feminine means starting to look at the internet for alternatives. Most stores in NZ appear to think that by having something with a touch of pink on it makes it popular to all females....the joys of being in the minority I guess ;)

Its also about mathematics, we only have 4 million people and a ''catalogue'' of 40 zillion consumer products. For better or worse we dont have 400 million people and therefore the means for everything to be on the shelf. Cold hard reality.

[Semantics]

distributors pay GST on shipments cause they import bulk whereas a single buyer can import one below the gst rate.

however, single buyers get retail price, where as distributors should get distributor price (duh), therefore leaving me asking
if a shoei helmet (raid II) costs 375$ usd at almost any American shop, add shipping to that ($50) and you basically get 560nzd landed.
how come shops here are charging $650?
considering distributor price should be lower than 375$ usd... and if shipping from importer in bulk it should be cheaper as well.

stuff like that really boggles my mind, if you can explain that would be awesome.

also note that shoei has a buy a helmet get an extra visor free program which everyone forgets to mention, they use it as a sales pitch though :S totally bs in my opinion

[Mully]

distributors pay GST on shipments cause they import bulk whereas a single buyer can import one below the gst rate.

however, single buyers get retail price, where as distributors should get distributor price (duh), therefore leaving me asking
if a shoei helmet (raid II) costs 375$ usd at almost any American shop, add shipping to that ($50) and you basically get 560nzd landed.
how come shops here are charging $650?
considering distributor price should be lower than 375$ usd... and if shipping from importer in bulk it should be cheaper as well.

Distributors will be GST registered, so will claim the GST back anyway.

While I don't know all the details, the retail price here will be influenced by:
Cashflow (got to pay the manufacturer (and the GST) usually before you get the goods, let alone sell the bastards). Even using cost of money at 10% that's a big amount
Overheads (rent, bills, staff, ACC, Insurance, advertising, etc)
Inventory. The stuff has to be on the shelf to sell.
Freight is an issue. The unit price to move a container to the States will be much less than the unit cost to move, say, 50 to NZ.

An online store price will be slightly more than a distributor price because the online stores often don't carry stock.

[MadDuck]

Its also about mathematics, we only have 4 million people and a ''catalogue'' of 40 zillion consumer products. For better or worse we dont have 400 million people and therefore the means for everything to be on the shelf. Cold hard reality.

I completely understand that and given that female bikers are a minority then there is even less chance of getting the gear desired.

Must say that I have NEVER been offered a look at a catalogue in store or offered any other alternatives. The standard response is thats all we have so 'take or leave it'. Therefore I can see why people head to the internet for gear.

[Steam]

Absolutely, and I do hear where you are coming from re affordability. Our living standards have in real terms dropped and we need armed insurrection to reposition the goalposts so we are actually looking after our own.
I think too many give no thought whatsoever where all this nonsense is leading to.
National strongly supports the move to a global economy, globalisation, free trade, bugger the local businesses. Labour also supports free trade. So who will you be voting for? The Greens, NZ First, or :eek5:the Maori Party.

[Dakara]

Generally, if your only gonna save $50-$100 on an item off ebay try haggling with the shops. I can't remember the last time I paid retail for a large ticket item :rolleyes: Prices here seem high, as they generally have room to move (within reason) and if they don't then they can't come here and cry about ebay as you did try to buy locally. Besides, if you need to claim warrenty or get support etc, saves a lot of hassle being able to walk into the shop and sort it out.

However, some items and/or stores have far too much markup on them and the shops who are being greedy shoot themselves in the foot. When I left my last job as an account manager to return to flying, the guy who replaced me me tried taggin another 15% margin onto customers without fixed pricing... in his first month he sold $10k less than my average, and when they finally fired him he was doing almost $30k less. My point is, no one is going to pay $4k for X brand race leathers when they can get them for $2.5k overseas (or $1.5k from Quasi :clap:)... if they do they have too much bloody money!!

While it's all good and true to say "support local" the shops aren't the only ones feeling the recession. Everything is costing everyone more, and we aint getting any pay increases to compensate.

[Jiminy]

The thing is this:
If you receive quality, courteous, extertise and after market service you are happy to pay the extra (...)
On the other hand if you get shit service from some 22 yr old spikey haired mxer / motarder know it all (but knows nuthin) who is also talking down to you you think: `fuckit, why spend a premium for this?'

I fully agree with that. I'm happy to pay for a friendly service, good advice, and the chance to try things on before buying. However, for my last helmet, it took me two trips round the local shops to finally get all that. If it had not been for a helmet, I would have bought it on-line, like I did for most of my gear.

[edit] Oh, and for some items like the jacket, I find the choice in local shops pretty small. Got mine off Trademe at the end.

[Quasievil]

I guess the up shot is if everyone goes offshore to buy gear and parts the NZ motorcycle industry might as well close down, and each overseas purchase just makes that a little more of a viable option for those that participate in it, radical but thats the reality of the situation and the ultimate response to those arguing pro overseas buying.
For example, why would a dealer want to have a ducati franchise right now ? the imports are killing them ,literally, so if they drop the franchise (and some are considering it right now) where will you go for specialist advise on your ducati? well no where is the answer, at least no one qualified on the Ducati, this is a reality in the market right now.

personally my last resort is to buy off shore and I cant remember the last time I did that.

[vindy500]

personally my last resort is to buy off shore and I cant remember the last time I did that.

quasimoto is made in nz?

[Quasievil]

quasimoto is made in nz?

can you tell me which top brands are ?
it is a new zealand company yes

[vindy500]

can you tell me which top brands are ?
it is a new zealand company yes

so the only difference is there is a kiwi middleman?

[Swoop]

...your term ''stealerships''...
Was referring to the large outlets that attempt to do "everything" (sales/service/aftermarket parts/etc). You are concentrating your business on one specific area, and is (hopefully) doing well in that area!

distributors pay GST on shipments cause they import bulk whereas a single buyer can import one below the gst rate.

however, single buyers get retail price, where as distributors should get distributor price (duh), therefore leaving me asking
if a shoei helmet (raid II) costs 375$ usd at almost any American shop, add shipping to that ($50) and you basically get 560nzd landed.
how come shops here are charging $650?
considering distributor price should be lower than 375$ usd... and if shipping from importer in bulk it should be cheaper as well.

stuff like that really boggles my mind, if you can explain that would be awesome.

also note that shoei has a buy a helmet get an extra visor free program which everyone forgets to mention, they use it as a sales pitch though :S totally bs in my opinion
Very well put. I wish my first post had said it this well!

Must say that I have NEVER been offered a look at a catalogue in store or offered any other alternatives. The standard response is thats all we have so 'take or leave it'. Therefore I can see why people head to the internet for gear.
An interesting comment. I have been into several "dealerships" (large ones!) and they fired up the internet and went sourcing...
Why go to the dealership if they are going to source the item you want and then put their markup on top of that?
A recent experience where the dealership ordered aftermarket parts for me. After four months - nothing! They re-ordered (saying they were "just checking up on the order") and a month later the parts arrived.
It is the service and attitude of the "dealerships" that has put me off using them unless absolutely necessary.
IF it is an item that has to fit my body, I support the local outlets and will spend my roubles with them.

[Quasievil]

so the only difference is there is a kiwi middleman?

Make your point dude.

if you hadnt noticed not much is made in New Zealand, most of us by items made offshore but that money is spent in our economy providing economic bennifits to this country, if you buy the same product off shore where is the economic bennifit for NZ ?

[Robert Taylor]

distributors pay GST on shipments cause they import bulk whereas a single buyer can import one below the gst rate.

however, single buyers get retail price, where as distributors should get distributor price (duh), therefore leaving me asking
if a shoei helmet (raid II) costs 375$ usd at almost any American shop, add shipping to that ($50) and you basically get 560nzd landed.
how come shops here are charging $650?
considering distributor price should be lower than 375$ usd... and if shipping from importer in bulk it should be cheaper as well.

stuff like that really boggles my mind, if you can explain that would be awesome.

also note that shoei has a buy a helmet get an extra visor free program which everyone forgets to mention, they use it as a sales pitch though :S totally bs in my opinion

1) Shipping costs to this far flung banana republic

2) Port fees, MAF, EDR /Customs agent clearing fees. Not applied to one off private purchasers, that discriminatory.

3) GST on all of the charges as above, gst on the landed value of the goods. Note that the goods will be written up and declared at their true value, not a colluded scam that many one off purchasers are into. GST is recoverable but there are administration costs in recovering that very ''money go round''

4) Because many of the big Yank parasite internet trading companies have a HUGE pool of customers even for just their domestic market they get bulk buying that even distributors here cannot get.

5) Related to point 4 above these same companies can operate on very slim margins because their customer base is so huge that they get the volume of business. In NZ you dont get the floor traffic and it is a cold hard reality that the stock turn is miniscule and has to have a higher margin. Related to that the ratio of operating costs to return is a lot poorer than these big companies. Extra mindless taxes and levies over the last 9 years have elevated business operating costs enormously, FACT.

6) A playing field that is not level, if you are a business you have a target on your back for central government levies and taxes. How many have wondered aloud ( for example ) that substanial ACC levies to businesses help to significantly subsidise one of the biggest components of ACC payouts....sporting injuries. The US companies will be paying no such levies, you play sport, you take the risks, you have your own insurance. Self accountability.

7) Etc

It is a simplistic belief that motorcycle dealers make huge profits, that belief is frankly a load of bollocks.

If the current level of overseas internet purchases continues apace there will doubtless be business and employment casualties. Personally, in that light I have no blood on my hands.

Sure a lot of dealers need a damn good shake up, but other advice that has been offered is very relevant, support those that actually know what they are doing and give excellent service. That is far better than sending money offshore to parasites that contribute nothing to our economy.

And if thec palying field was actually level there would be no incentive to purchase offshore.

[Robert Taylor]

National strongly supports the move to a global economy, globalisation, free trade, bugger the local businesses. Labour also supports free trade. So who will you be voting for? The Greens, NZ First, or :eek5:the Maori Party.

There is the conundrum

NZ First, a vehicle for Winstons ego, only Ron Mark deserves to survive

Greens, Sue Bradford and a drug culture, say no more. So busy trying to save the planet but they are rarely on it.

The Maori Party, some sharp minds there and Tariana Turia actually has some decorum but in the end event they are still a seperatist, divisive entity.

Labour, the most corrupt Government in our history and in reality totally out of touch with the average WORKING Kiwi. Smoke and mirrors.

I would personally rather walk on broken glass barefoot than ever vote for those parties.

Of all the fringe elements only Ron Mark, the Act party and Gordon Copeland deserve to survive. I am not a practicing Christian but at least Gordon Copeland has the courage of his convictions

National, much better equipped ( as a term of relativity ) to run the country as they have a much higher percentage of practical people who have been in the real world.

Granted, they embrace the free market and the free market is biting us bigtime. It is a tragedy that more small businessmen dont enter politics, practical people who believe in self accountability, discipline, hard work and are patriots to their country. Maybe in the future the wheel will turn and it might take a major conflict to do so, as long as the West wins. ( No apologies for saying that )
If we could have the calibre of politicians and leaders such as David Camerons English Conservative party or perhaps a Michael Heseltine we would be all the better for it.

[Semantics]

u gave a good response - but basically you are saying

usa have more customers therefore they can afford to have it on a near to nothing profit margin, therefore admitting - in our situation for example that the extra 90nzd is profit margin.

$40 (not to mention $90) on a helmet is more than enough as a margin, and please dont tell me that you get less than 40$ nzd profit on a single shoei helmet at 650$ nzd sale price.
BULLOCKS!!!!!!

the fact is - NZ dealers sometimes step overboard... should it be ok for them to advertise at $649 .. sure .. but should they be able to offer a 10% discount as a bargaining tool - sure...

anyways in the end of the day, why should i spend 80$nzd more on a helmet if i can get it from overseas?
as a student 80$nzd is a weeks shopping

and not only that - i get a free visor - without having to beg for it!!! or act like the store is doing me a favor.

i dont think you are bringing in mega bucks or anything, i just want to be shown the figures as to why item x is worth $90nzd less overseas than here - oh and when i say $90nzd i already included shipping yes?

so a raid II helmet + shipping + free visor = $425usd - roughly $560 nzd
retail price at most stores (ive seen atleast) in nz = $649

Delivery is probably cheaper for a dealer due to bulk ordering.
so you are saying tax, but then again you can claim for a tax refund at the end of the year - ok maybe not ALL of it.
administration fees is it? 90 freaking bucks?

:2guns:

[Robert Taylor]

u gave a good response - but basically you are saying

usa have more customers therefore they can afford to have it on a near to nothing profit margin, therefore admitting - in our situation for example that the extra 90nzd is profit margin.

$40 (not to mention $90) on a helmet is more than enough as a margin, and please dont tell me that you get less than 40$ nzd profit on a single shoei helmet at 650$ nzd sale price.
BULLOCKS!!!!!!

the fact is - NZ dealers sometimes step overboard... should it be ok for them to advertise at $649 .. sure .. but should they be able to offer a 10% discount as a bargaining tool - sure...

anyways in the end of the day, why should i spend 80$nzd more on a helmet if i can get it from overseas?
as a student 80$nzd is a weeks shopping

and not only that - i get a free visor - without having to beg for it!!! or act like the store is doing me a favor.

i dont think you are bringing in mega bucks or anything, i just want to be shown the figures as to why item x is worth $90nzd less overseas than here - oh and when i say $90nzd i already included shipping yes?

so a raid II helmet + shipping + free visor = $425usd - roughly $560 nzd
retail price at most stores (ive seen atleast) in nz = $649

Delivery is probably cheaper for a dealer due to bulk ordering.
so you are saying tax, but then again you can claim for a tax refund at the end of the year - ok maybe not ALL of it.
administration fees is it? 90 freaking bucks?

:2guns:

Well, as you say you are a student. Continue being studious as you clearly have a lot to learn about the realities of keeping a business afloat in NZ. I only hope for your sake that if you choose to live and work in this country that a reasonable standard of living will still be available.
I for one care for the wellbeing and viability of business in this country.

[Semantics]

rather than giving me an answer you are just walking away,

i understand the idea of supporting my country and my dealers but not if my dealer is ripping me off cause he is abit too greedy.
i am yet to recieve a proper explanation on pricings to explain why the difference of $100 +/- is there.

not to talk about over price alpinestars gear being sold in nz, compared to overseas imports - which you can get alpinestars for atleast a good 300-400$ less :P

how much % profit are they trying to make off us?

let me guess - as much as they can, because hey thats the way the world is.
and since thats the way it is.

what you are missing here is, if a dealership offered a shoei raid II helm (sorry im always using this as an example but it is one of my best) for 580-590$ nzd + visor - i wouldnt think twice to support my dealer and order from him
but close to $100 bloody bucks man, wtf!

[Robert Taylor]

rather than giving me an answer you are just walking away,

i understand the idea of supporting my country and my dealers but not if my dealer is ripping me off cause he is abit too greedy.
i am yet to recieve a proper explanation on pricings to explain why the difference of $100 +/- is there.

not to talk about over price alpinestars gear being sold in nz, compared to overseas imports - which you can get alpinestars for atleast a good 300-400$ less :P

how much % profit are they trying to make off us?

let me guess - as much as they can, because hey thats the way the world is.
and since thats the way it is.

what you are missing here is, if a dealership offered a shoei raid II helm (sorry im always using this as an example but it is one of my best) for 580-590$ nzd + visor - i wouldnt think twice to support my dealer and order from him
but close to $100 bloody bucks man, wtf!

The reality is that after taking into account stock turn, business overheads etc the real profit is not stunning at all.
I am not missing anything at all or evading anything, the reality is that I have been in all sectors of the industry both here and in the UK. In that time I have seen a lot of motorcycle businesses go to the wall because their margins were too slim, FACT. If you are not prepared to understand simple accountancy and how costs baloon and that it is very much not a level playing field, well that is up to you.
But alas I am too old and tempered to know everything.

[Robert Taylor]

The reality is that after taking into account stock turn, business overheads etc the real profit is not stunning at all.
I am not missing anything at all or evading anything, the reality is that I have been in all sectors of the industry both here and in the UK. In that time I have seen a lot of motorcycle businesses go to the wall because their margins were too slim, FACT. If you are not prepared to understand simple accountancy and how costs baloon and that it is very much not a level playing field, well that is up to you.
But alas I am too old and tempered to know everything.

And btw, another liquidator walked in yesterday on a major franchised dealer in Auckland. Internet puchases will in no small way be contributing to such.

[Semantics]

anyways point being, if you feel like you have the extra $$ to purchase from your local dealer then obviously go for it - also works well if you have a good relationship with your dealer.
but if you are poor as heck and want to fend for yourself then order from overseas.

[vifferman]

I've never really considered buying a helmet, gloves, jacket, trousers etc. from overseas, as it's totally important to me that they fit OK and that I can go back to the dealer if there are any issues with waterproofing or QC. However, when I asked about replacement parts for my Shoei, there were none in stock, and they didn't even seem to consider getting them.

As for bikes themselves, I'll shop around and buy where I get the best deal and service. It's a buyer's market. I do feel bad if I test-ride bikes at a shop and then buy elesewhere, but on the other hand, there have been times when I've been offered a test-ride and bought something, when I wasn't even considering it when I walked in.

For bike parts, I get things like oil, chains, brakepads, batteries, etc locally, but don't even bother any more with going to the dealer for genuine Honda parts, as they almost invariably don't have them in stock, due to BlueWing Honda doing such a crap job. It's not so much the price (although I can save up to 75% by buying over the Interdweeb) - it's availability. Here's some examples: APE manual CCTs: the sole importer wanted me to pay more than twice the price he could buy them for, just so he could order them instead of me doing it and bypassing him.
Thottle Position Sensor: couldn't get one, and the cheapest local one was buying a pair of secondhand carbs for a VTR with one attached.
I bought both the CCTs and the TPS from a guy in the UK for less than the retail price of the CCTs here.
Cush rubbers: I ordered these on indent, and after 6 months, I gave up and got my deposit back. I was quoted $85+, and bought them from the US (where they were ex-stock) for ~$20.

Almost every time I've asked for almost any common Honda parts (like brake caliper seals, instrument bulbs, gaskets, nuts'n'bolts), they've said, "Uh... sorry - they're not in stock. They'll be 3 weeks, ex-Japan." I can get them in less than a week, ex-USA, for much less. I'm not going to support a crap outfit like BlueWing who aren't giving me much parts backup support.

Yes, there's a risk buying things overseas. In hindsight, it was probably not wise sourcing my suspension bits from Mrka, but it did save me around $400, which will probably be eaten up by servicing costs here. Some stuff is just too expensive to buy here: I couldn't afford a Power Commander, and couldn't source a secondhand one here, but got one from eBay for US$100. A mate got one brand new over the internet, at a "close-out sale", for less than $100, landed.

[Mully]

what you are missing here is, if a dealership offered a shoei raid II helm (sorry im always using this as an example but it is one of my best) for 580-590$ nzd + visor - i wouldnt think twice to support my dealer and order from him
but close to $100 bloody bucks man, wtf!

Well, at NZ$560, there is $70 worth of GST on that for a start. Buying export from the States should mean you are exempt of their sales tax.

Also, it's $100 at today's exchange rate. If the Kiwi Peso were to drop to US$0.40 again, it would be cheaper to buy locally.

Bear in mind that most local distibutors purchase in USD when they buy from factories.

[scott411]

the internet has made some stuff easier to get, but is also costing NZ in overall sales,

most things are cheaper in the States (look at Iphones, playstation games or anything electronic) it is just size of market, and the fact that the big players over there have the buying power to get prices from teh suppliers lower, and work on lower margins,

you can get Shoeis fro under RRP is you shop around,

and if your helmet gets grabbed by customs, its over $400 so you will be charge 12.5% gst, plus a processing fee, your $90 dearer will be grabbed up pretty quick,

[BIGBOSSMAN]

I think Robert and Quasi raise some very valid points in favour of buying locally, certainly when it comes to clothing and safety gear there is no other option. But, I replaced some fairing parts a while ago (Kwaka ZX10R), the local price was well over a grand - I imported the same bits from the US for under $500 (landed price).
It's pure economics here; Only an idiot (or a rich idealist) would contemplate spending twice the amount of money for the same product, and anyone with any business nouse would surely agree.
It is a global market nowadays, so in order to survive there must be a point of difference. Robert has undeniable knowledge and valuable advice with Ohlins suspension, while what I've heard and seen of Quasi is that he'll bend over backwards to accommodate different budgets and give his advice freely.
Customer service is the key point of difference, and these two deliver in spades.
I'm not prepared however to spend twice the amount of money (from my Helen-ravaged paypacket) for 'genuine' Kawasaki parts that I can source ex overseas.
Suspension and safety gear? That's another matter entirely.

[Unit]

Interesting thread. We purchase through a variety of sources for a variety of items. Of course we are always after the best financial deal, but sometimes we spend a little extra locally. For example, I have just purchased a new set of Quasi leathers (thanks Brett and Paula, awesome). I wanted to make sure the fit was exactly right, and the price was excellent in my view for a great product, with excellent service, before and after sale, and I know it fits. I also know if anything goes wrong I will be well looked after. AND I know of people who have binned 3,4,5 times and still in the same Quasi leathers.
A friend tried on a helmet locally, and purchased overseas saving a lot, the purchase worked out fine.
We have purchased bike parts overseas, and there is certainly ability for the local retailers to be smarter about how they source their after market parts. When I had my Aprillia RSVR Factory, I was quoted $700 odd for a rear seat I didnt have, yet managed to import the exact same seat, along with carbon labia, carbon side covers front fearing, and a hugger for under $700 for the lot, Im not made of money so why wouldnt I. We support the shops as much as possible, but we also shop smart and on line shopping globally is here to stay, like it or not. That means the retailers have to move with the times and demand better buy ins from their suppliers.

[Sollyboy]

So its alright then to make a convenience of the local retailers, trying on their gear knowing full well that you are not going to buy off them? Thats a pretty rotten thing to do.

It wouldnt happen if we didnt get arse fucked by local retailers and importers everytime we try to buy something,the net has made the world a small place and the buying public know what shit is worth

[Katman]

i am yet to recieve a proper explanation on pricings to explain why the difference of $100 +/- is there.



If the N.Z. Shoei importer orders 1000 helmets and the American importer orders 100,000 helmets who do you think gets the better buy price?

[twotyred]

It wouldnt happen if we didnt get arse fucked by local retailers and importers everytime we try to buy something,the net has made the world a small place and the buying public know what shit is worth

Amen

I support local retailers/manufacturers,if they deserve it.... but this "support us! we're a local business!"(read local importer with huge mark-up)is just economic brainwashing:buggerd:... so you started a business importing helmets,clothing etc... and we're supposed to feel guilty if we can,once in a while,get a better deal for our VERY hardearned dollar through a traveling friend or family member!!!?:lol::weird:

[Katman]

(read local importer with huge mark-up)

The mark-up in the motorcycle clothing and accessories market is no different to the mark-up in virtually any other commodity market in NZ.

[Maha]

The mark-up in the motorcycle clothing and accessories market is no different to the mark-up in virtually any other commodity market in NZ.

Minimum 100%???

[Katman]

Minimum 100%???

Are you suggesting that 100% mark-up is standard? If that's the case, then I am fucking myself over badly in my business.

[svr]

Ah the beautiful logic of capitalism - right or wrong is of no concern - the Market will decide. Godbye Mom and Pop operations, hello Big Corporates.
For the size on NZ we can expect maybe two (hopefully for competition sake) centrally located large importers of motorcycle accessories?
Not good, probably inevitable?

[Robert Taylor]

Interesting thread. We purchase through a variety of sources for a variety of items. Of course we are always after the best financial deal, but sometimes we spend a little extra locally. For example, I have just purchased a new set of Quasi leathers (thanks Brett and Paula, awesome). I wanted to make sure the fit was exactly right, and the price was excellent in my view for a great product, with excellent service, before and after sale, and I know it fits. I also know if anything goes wrong I will be well looked after. AND I know of people who have binned 3,4,5 times and still in the same Quasi leathers.
A friend tried on a helmet locally, and purchased overseas saving a lot, the purchase worked out fine.
We have purchased bike parts overseas, and there is certainly ability for the local retailers to be smarter about how they source their after market parts. When I had my Aprillia RSVR Factory, I was quoted $700 odd for a rear seat I didnt have, yet managed to import the exact same seat, along with carbon labia, carbon side covers front fearing, and a hugger for under $700 for the lot, Im not made of money so why wouldnt I. We support the shops as much as possible, but we also shop smart and on line shopping globally is here to stay, like it or not. That means the retailers have to move with the times and demand better buy ins from their suppliers.

The very weak $US exacerbates this whole issue. I do understand the economics and how pay packets dont let ends meet in this overtaxed, overlevied country.
But one of my main salient points that some have paid scant attention to is that this is destroying NZ business and ultimately employment. I am talking the big picture here.

[Maha]

Are you suggesting that 100% mark-up is standard? If that's the case, then I am fucking myself over badly in my business.


No...I did add question marks, which means, its not a suggestion or a statement but a question.

[Katman]

I am talking the big picture here.

I have learnt from bitter experience that, in general, KBers only see the big picture when they're at the movies.

[Katman]

No...I did add question marks, which means, its not a suggestion or a statement but a question.

In that case, you're no-where near it.

[Quasievil]

No...I did add question marks, which means, its not a suggestion or a statement but a question.

No more like 40%

[Semantics]

btw dont think i dont support nz dealers, i am just about to buy (99% sure) a shark s800 from cycletreads and they are pretty nice - cant beat the price for sure.
sure it might be an older version - but its still a shark - good quality and i dont have to import from usa :)

in regards to quasimoto - to be honest i would totally purchase their gear over alpinestars even since i know they have an awesome reputation and they will take care of you (this is what i love about proper nz businesses)

however im moving to oz in a few months (graduating) and cant get support from brisbane :(

maybe i should open a quasi franchise in oz :) haha

anyways im def thinking about taking the ride down to hamilton

[Robert Taylor]

It wouldnt happen if we didnt get arse fucked by local retailers and importers everytime we try to buy something,the net has made the world a small place and the buying public know what shit is worth

Thats a simplistic and very ineloquent view, what is also dissappointing is that it tars retailers and importers all with the same brush. That is unfair.

[Katman]

And for those of you complaining about the mark up - do you actually know how much it costs to run a business? Perhaps you'd be better off buying your helmet from a guy flogging them off out of his car boot out in the pub carpark.

[Robert Taylor]

Ah the beautiful logic of capitalism - right or wrong is of no concern - the Market will decide. Godbye Mom and Pop operations, hello Big Corporates.
For the size on NZ we can expect maybe two (hopefully for competition sake) centrally located large importers of motorcycle accessories?
Not good, probably inevitable?

Broadly I have to agree with you. I tend to think most capitalists ( small and medium business ) are by and large reasonable people. If we talk the most extreme forms of capitalism eg the oil barons then yes they are a pack of uncaring money grabbing bastards. In the same breath as talking money grabbing bastards we are also talking about quasi communist Governments such as this outgoing one we have here. I.e they are just as bad as the big multi nationals.
There is no balance in what is going on. I support those who actually do something for our local economy.

[Robert Taylor]

And for those of you complaining about the mark up - do you actually know how much it costs to run a business? Perhaps you'd be better off buying your helmet from a guy flogging them off out of his car boot out in the pub carpark.

That reinforces the point I was trying to make. I have seen a good number of people starting up motorcycle shops.....''we are going to make a sh..load of money and do it a lot better than that other guy'' A great many of them fold because they just have no idea of the real and hidden costs.

[ynot slow]

Minimum 100%???

Retail shop I last worked in(less than 2 mths ago)wholesale price(ex gst)multiplied by 2.1.$1000 ex gst w/s was $2100 inc gst.

Benefit with local guys like Quasi and Robert is one damn word,SERVICE.You ask a question on their product they give an answer,if you don't agree with them go elsewhere.The question you ask could take say 30 min of their time($60p/hr)has cost them say $30 or more,multiply that by say 10 customers per week and that is $3-400 in lost income/revenue.It is called product knowledge.

I think the web is great for info,hell I got my leather gear off Brett simply by clicking his website after seeing his sale items,at least if they were bad sizing easy fix,I looked at some closeout gloves in the states,$25 usa but add another $30usa freight and closer to $75nz landed.Priced some alpinestars on same site they were $185usa and $30 freight and on sale in NZ for $275 on trade me from a bike outlet.

[Katman]

Retail shop I last worked in(less than 2 mths ago)wholesale price(ex gst)multiplied by 2.1.$1000 ex gst w/s was $2100 inc gst.

In that case, motorcycle businesses make a considerably lower mark-up than whatever that retail shop you worked in did.

[MadDuck]

And btw, another liquidator walked in yesterday on a major franchised dealer in Auckland. Internet puchases will in no small way be contributing to such.

Its not just bike shops and franchised dealers going 'belly-up' at the moment....but nice little dig in an attempt to strengthen your argument without providing the true facts in relation to this particular business.

[Dodgy]

NZ is a funny old market and I can see it from both sides.

As a 'retailer' we recently tried to purchased some new phones for the NZ market. The conversation with the manufacturer went like this

'We want some of model xyz phones'
'How many you want??'
'Thirty thousand...'
'What, thirty thousand a week?'
'No...., thirty thousand'

click.....

'Hello??'

Our purchase size was not even worth him getting out of bed for...


If I know exactly what I want, and I do not want a relationship with my local dealer, I see no problem at all with buying online and saving some wad. Some retailers add absolutely no value and you, the consumer is typically better informed that the cretin behind the counter. aka Harvey Norman

The flip side is that I have just purchased and received a new power amp costing $15k. Now, I may have been able to strike a better deal online, but I value the long term relationship with the importer and dealer. And and the amp weighs 65kg, I have let them deal with all the dramas of customs and freight.

For me it is a case of the opportunity cost with each transaction. If there is value (either tangible or non tangible), then I am happy to pay more $$

Like with you Robert. I have no doubt that I could get a shiny new shock online cheaper. But you offer so much more than that shiny shock, you offer a service and relationship around that, which is a real value add. And that is worth more to me than say a 15% saving on the upfront cost...

[Quasievil]

This is going around in circles people, the fact is, there ISNT alot of money in the bike business thats a FACT, people buy offshore for a wide range of reasons, that also is a FACT. End of the day those in the business have a justified attitude to those buying of shore, why wouldnt we, and conversly those consumers that cant get what they want in NZ buy offshore.
Not much can be done about it eh?

The underlying fact of the matter is that if motorcycle business had more business they could do more for the local market.........that again is a FACT, and that would be in a range of ways, ie more buying power from higher sales then lower prices, more sponsorship for riders, lots of stuff.

Only one debating team here has the power to adjust the situation and it aint the bike shops unfortunetly

Shit I still have a Job and so does Mrs Quasi, if there was good money in QUASiMOTO I wouldnt be bloody working would I.

But thats the enviroment we live in, global, so no point crying about it eh.

[scott411]

Its not just bike shops and franchised dealers going 'belly-up' at the moment....but nice little dig in an attempt to strengthen your argument without providing the true facts in relation to this particular business.

I know who Robert is talking about as well, but i do not think its fair to bring it up online, and i suspect Robert thinks the same,

[Sollyboy]

Thats a simplistic and very ineloquent view, what is also dissappointing is that it tars retailers and importers all with the same brush. That is unfair.

I dont include you as one of the rip offs as the back up you gave me far exceeded the cost of buying locally but your idea of service and cost/benefit ratio far exceeds the usual NZ standard so dont get offend, the only complaint I have about you Robert is you wear your pants too high and it makes you look like a nerd

[Dodgy]

I just think that the consumer is more empowered and has more choice these days (and too easy access to credit!!)

And we are all consumers even bike shop retailers.

In the old days, when I was a teenager, I had little choice. I scrimped and saved and had my heart set on an Arai helmet. Walk into my local Wellington Motorcycles, where the guy behind the counter happily took my money and ordered my helmet. I was quite specific in my size, model and colour scheme

Problem was the cunt thought he was clever and ordered me the lower spec model in the colour I wanted and insisted it was the Quantum. He thought that as a spotty teenager I would simply lump it and accept it. I went and purchased a mag with a full page Arai ad and showed him what we had agreed to and I had ordered. More yelling and finally he told me to come back at the end of the and get a refund.

These days I have a lot more $$$ and that same sad cunt still works there. I buy Suzuki OEM stuff from Turnbulls instead. As a liberated and mature customer, I have never had any more $$ pass over the counter while he is behind it, I buy bikes and accessories elsewhere.

Dont know the point I was trying to make, other than I value and pay more for excellent service. Try to screw me over tho...

[Robert Taylor]

I dont include you as one of the rip offs as the back up you gave me far exceeded the cost of buying locally but your idea of service and cost/benefit ratio far exceeds the usual NZ standard so dont get offend, the only complaint I have about you Robert is you wear your pants too high and it makes you look like a nerd

I am a nerd! My wife and daughters tell me!

[Robert Taylor]

I know who Robert is talking about as well, but i do not think its fair to bring it up online, and i suspect Robert thinks the same,

Exactly, the longer you are in business the more you know the signs. I was edgy only a short while ago about giving the operation concerned credit on a not insubstanial value of goods. My concerns as it turned out were justified, luckily I executed payment by other means.
It is heartening that there are many who have posted on this thread who have a balanced perspective in that they will deal locally if they get excellent service at reasonable prices.
Others have condemned corporate multi national capitalism and that is also fair as these bodies have nothing but self interest and are prepared to ride roughshod over anything no matter how it ravages the living quality of the everyday man in the street. But are those who also scour the world for the cheapest possible prices free from a measure of similiar criticism of putting their own self interest before the common good of their country ? Okay, thats probably a bit harsh but I think about this long and hard, what damage it is doing to this country.
And yes, fair call, a lot of businesses and employees need a real reality check about being motivated, committed and knowledgable of their product. That can be a compounding problem though, if the returns arent there then you can only pay peanuts....

[Pussy]

I am a nerd! My wife and daughters tell me!

Listen to the girls, RT!! :bleh:

As far as dealing locally goes, for the amount I seem to spend on suspension, I'm buggered if I'm going to take my forks etc to the US (or some other overseas place) to get custom modifying work done on them to my tastes, when it's all available here, with superb back-up.

[Sparky Bills]

These threads always winde me up soo much...

Soo many people THINK they know how this industry works.
Let me tell you... Reading the posts on this thread. Proves that many of you are just repeating what you have heard or read somewhere. And no offence but I only see a few on here who have a clue about whats really going on.

Take from that what you will. Cry me a river even. Boo Hoo and all that other crap.
The industry isnt perfect, but its not exactly terrible either.

Did you know that Shoei helmets cost more in Oz...?
$1250 in Oz for an X-spirit (they call them X Eleven's) $999 here.
OH MY GOD!!! WHAT RIP OFFS!!!:msn-wink:

Alpinestars Race Rep Suits.... 2500 Euro....
But sell for $3500 here. You do the math.

[Pussy]

Shoeis are even MORE expensive in Pomgolia, too, relatively speaking

[Semantics]

just cause they are more expensive in some OTHER countries doesnt mean it means anything.

i wouldnt import a car from israel knowing that its 200% tax on vehicles would i?

anyways - i did notice oz prices are pretty much the same if not higher by a small amount, which negates to what has been said in the thread regarding to more people, more demand, lower price.

ended up getting a shark s800 locally anyways so meh :P

[Katman]

I remember hearing a saying a while back that goes - If you plan to make a small fortune out of a motorcycle shop make sure you start with a large fortune.

[Quasievil]

anyways - i did notice oz prices are pretty much the same if not higher by a small amount, which negates to what has been said in the thread regarding to more people, more demand, lower price.



Aussy has a higher cross over to usd rate than we do, if they are similar priced, yes it could mean bigger market or it could mean they enjoy reasonable margins.

Good to see youve supported your local industry though mate:woohoo:

[Robert Taylor]

I remember hearing a saying a while back that goes - If you plan to make a small fortune out of a motorcycle shop make sure you start with a large fortune.

Yep, seen it done rather more than a few times.

[Robert Taylor]

just cause they are more expensive in some OTHER countries doesnt mean it means anything.

i wouldnt import a car from israel knowing that its 200% tax on vehicles would i?

anyways - i did notice oz prices are pretty much the same if not higher by a small amount, which negates to what has been said in the thread regarding to more people, more demand, lower price.

ended up getting a shark s800 locally anyways so meh :P

The Aussies havent quite yet suffered the Yank disease, Aussies are also better paid and therefore possibly less attentive to everything having to be discounted. Hopefully their dealers get better margins.
Good to see that in the end event you supported local, that will preclude for a little while longer someone in the motorcycle industry losing their job.
BTW I see you are moving to Australia, is that because there are better prospects over their relevant to your training / higher living standards? Not being cynical, just curious.

[The Stranger]

This is in fact the whole misconception clearly identified by your term ''stealerships''. It hasnt escaped everyones attention that many ( most )motorcycle dealerships dont survive until old age, BECAUSE the after tax profit just isnt there. If you dont believe me, try it as many have done and come unstuck. ( My own time was successful because I had the training and long experience beforehand ) So often I have heard to the effect, ''we are going to do it better and make sh..loads of money.'' Then theres the realisation, operating costs, taxes, levies, indifferent staff, warranty issues and poor reimbursement, technical issues that are very complex, a plethora of suppliers and product, credit control issues, cashflow issues...and more often than not you are in a ''dutch auction'' with not only other dealers but all of the overseas internet parasite companies.
The world is not a level playing field. Yankee companies are able to purchase many items of stock at bulk discounts just on the size of their domestic market alone. Because of volume they are able to operate on much slimmer margins. Their current weak dollar makes it attractive for overseas purchasers and also easy to parasite sales into these markets. They dont care a rats ar.e that the local authorised distributors in the markets they rape have often serious investments in stock and infrastructure and actually ( despite the unfairness of it all ) contribute to the local economy and employment.
I think more people should look at the bigger picture and look at the long term damage this is doing to our own local economy and infrastructure.

Isn't what you are advocating essentially protectionism?
It's always annoyed the hell out of me when it is practised against us, say for example in the dairy industry.
If everyone buys local then how do our exporters make money?

You may well remember the report that helped convince Rodger Douglas dismantle our auto assembly industry. The protectionism that the govt applied at the time to support our auto assembly industry cost us (you and me) $120,000.00 per worker per annum for the privilege of having an auto assembly industry. Was it money well spent? how have we, the consumer or the country, lost out due to it's demise?
I use that as only as an example of how out of whack protectionism can get.

I have always felt that what is best for a country as a whole is to let the economy find it's own efficiencies. Protectionism really doesn't help this process.

I'm not actually saying people should import their own gear. There are many reasons given in this thread why one should be cautious, and some others that I can think of (say recourse if the goods don't acutally arrive).
That said, I am about to purchase a set of headers from a performance specialist manufacturer in the USA. They are showing excellent performance gains and are about half the cost of of similar items from Akrapovic or Yoshimura. By the time I get them here they will be about a quarter of the cost (local basis). Screw it, he's put in the work and produced what is (on paper and reputedly) an excellent product at a very reasonable price. He deserves my money more so than the local Yoshi distributor.
Point is where I (as the consumer) see value is where I should spend my money.

I have dealt with you for suspension for 2 of my bikes and would certainly rather deal with yourself or Shaun Harris than a foreign entity as there is a huge value in the knowledge you guys have that exceeds the value in the product itself.
But that's MY decision thanks.

[Robert Taylor]

Isn't what you are advocating essentially protectionism?
It's always annoyed the hell out of me when it is practised against us, say for example in the dairy industry.
If everyone buys local then how do our exporters make money?

You may well remember the report that helped convince Rodger Douglas dismantle our auto assembly industry. The protectionism that the govt applied at the time to support our auto assembly industry cost us (you and me) $120,000.00 per worker per annum for the privilege of having an auto assembly industry. Was it money well spent? how have we, the consumer or the country, lost out due to it's demise?
I use that as only as an example of how out of whack protectionism can get.

I have always felt that what is best for a country as a whole is to let the economy find it's own efficiencies. Protectionism really doesn't help this process.

I'm not actually saying people should import their own gear. There are many reasons given in this thread why one should be cautious, and some others that I can think of (say recourse if the goods don't acutally arrive).
That said, I am about to purchase a set of headers from a performance specialist manufacturer in the USA. They are showing excellent performance gains and are about half the cost of of similar items from Akrapovic or Yoshimura. By the time I get them here they will be about a quarter of the cost (local basis). Screw it, he's put in the work and produced what is (on paper and reputedly) an excellent product at a very reasonable price. He deserves my money more so than the local Yoshi distributor.
Point is where I (as the consumer) see value is where I should spend my money.

I have dealt with you for suspension for 2 of my bikes and would certainly rather deal with yourself or Shaun Harris than a foreign entity as there is a huge value in the knowledge you guys have that exceeds the value in the product itself.
But that's MY decision thanks.

I hear what you are saying, Im not advocating protectionism, Im actually advocating a level playing field and sensibility. We are clearly too much now in the opposite direction to protectionism. That is doing no end of damage to NZ business. 2 out of 3 working age people are either employers or employess paying tax to support the other third, that horrifying statistic doesnt need to become yet more horrifying. It also pains me to see the huge investment many recognised distributors have in infrastructure and stock only to get the pi.. taken out of them with parallell importing and usually no back up. That is unethical and wrong.
At the moment Im mopping up some of the less than satisfactory results of another party importing a handful of dampers and then pretty much leaving the customers high and dry. Its too easy to import stuff and provide no backup. That sucks

[Semantics]

The Aussies havent quite yet suffered the Yank disease, Aussies are also better paid and therefore possibly less attentive to everything having to be discounted. Hopefully their dealers get better margins.
Good to see that in the end event you supported local, that will preclude for a little while longer someone in the motorcycle industry losing their job.
BTW I see you are moving to Australia, is that because there are better prospects over their relevant to your training / higher living standards? Not being cynical, just curious.

Oh no worries, just in my last sem at uni as an electrical engineer, Oz pays about 10k-20k more per year for salaries, has 5 times more job opportunity (according to seek) and in general - im getting sick of the rain, brissy sounds like an awesome sunny place to ride a bike :D

but i might just move to New Plymouth if i cant get a job up in oz... already kind of have job offers down there

[alanzs]

So its alright then to make a convenience of the local retailers, trying on their gear knowing full well that you are not going to buy off them? Thats a pretty rotten thing to do.

I agree with you 100%. If you try stuff on, or even waste their time with questions, recommendations, etc., with no intention of buying from them, that is totally fucked.

Part of good customer service requires a good customer...

:argh:

[Quasievil]

brissy sounds like an awesome sunny place to ride a bike :D



great there unless you like water and washing yourself and your cars and bikes then you appreciate the rain we have here.

[Semantics]

meh u can still wash ur car or bike - and definetly yourself.

just for cars and bikes and stuff you need a bucket - no hose.

id rather wash my stuff with a bucket than worry that i need to ride around 6+ months of the year in rain :(

[Shaun]

Make your point dude.

if you hadnt noticed not much is made in New Zealand, most of us by items made offshore but that money is spent in our economy providing economic bennifits to this country, if you buy the same product off shore where is the economic bennifit for NZ ?



You are now as bad as Taylor dude. You guys pay tax as Importers, and also pay tax on your PROFIT, on the goods you import!! So you HAVE made a profit! $$$$

Taylor has staff he pays, and makes a profit from there work as well, that is good buisness.



Can you not employ NZ workers to make the product you make a profit from?? NO, as the costs here are to high, as are the importers mark up amount

Yea yea, you are a NZ company, that only sells product made by a 1 cent and hour worker, very well done on finding a way to make money from some elses way of feeding there family.

So, if a private person chooses to purchase off shore, and pay a lot less for there product, WHY SHOULD THEY NOT

Who really gives a fuck, if of shore purchases effect the TAX dept of buisness owners, that is a part of being in buisness, finding ways to make your self a better alternative to the Internet.

PS, thanks for your nice PM to me on your site.

[Shaun]

I hear what you are saying, Im not advocating protectionism, Im actually advocating a level playing field and sensibility. We are clearly too much now in the opposite direction to protectionism. That is doing no end of damage to NZ business. 2 out of 3 working age people are either employers or employess paying tax to support the other third, that horrifying statistic doesnt need to become yet more horrifying. It also pains me to see the huge investment many recognised distributors have in infrastructure and stock only to get the pi.. taken out of them with parallell importing and usually no back up. That is unethical and wrong.
At the moment Im mopping up some of the less than satisfactory results of another party importing a handful of dampers and then pretty much leaving the customers high and dry. Its too easy to import stuff and provide no backup. That sucks


O you are so nice ROB

[Shaun]

Robert T and Quasi evel, how many times and miles have you both driven your officual buisness vehicles on private buisness? That the company fuel card paid for, YEP guys, that is also ripping off the NZ economy, and do not try to say you DO NOT do this.:Pokey:

[Quasievil]

Im bowing out, cant be bothered arguing about it.

buy whereever you want people, I just think if its in NZ get it here, otherwise no one will bother bringing it in anymore.

have a good one

Shaun dont be a grumpy bugger, I still love you ya big poof head

[Stormer]

Just got some new boots from motorcyclegear.co.nz.
Internet ordered late Thursday, on my doorstep Saterday morning.
Could have got them from the States for $130 or so cheaper, but I wanted them, like, NOW, y`know..........?

[Katman]

Who really gives a fuck, if of shore purchases effect the TAX dept of buisness owners, that is a part of being in buisness, finding ways to make your self a better alternative to the Internet.



You're hardly a shining light when it comes to good business acumen.

[Quasievil]

PS, thanks for your nice PM to me on your site.

Sorry dude, that actually wasnt me either that was my Mod

[Robert Taylor]

O you are so nice ROB

If you hadnt been so quick to jump to a conclusion it was a motorcycle dealer that parallell imported 3 new Ohlins dampers, the springing wasnt correct for the customers and the dealer had the temerity to ask if I would swap the springs. Needless to say as the dampers werent purchased through the recognised distributor the springs were offered at the standard purchase price. Nett result it would have been more cost effective to purchase within NZ in the first place.
As the recognised distributor we stock all of the options and backup our sales with a service and warranty infrastructure. Nothing to be ashamed of with that.

[Robert Taylor]

Oh no worries, just in my last sem at uni as an electrical engineer, Oz pays about 10k-20k more per year for salaries, has 5 times more job opportunity (according to seek) and in general - im getting sick of the rain, brissy sounds like an awesome sunny place to ride a bike :D

but i might just move to New Plymouth if i cant get a job up in oz... already kind of have job offers down there

Best of luck, its a shame our economy and those that manipulate it dont provide a much better standard of living here in this beautiful country.

[Robert Taylor]

Robert T and Quasi evel, how many times and miles have you both driven your officual buisness vehicles on private buisness? That the company fuel card paid for, YEP guys, that is also ripping off the NZ economy, and do not try to say you DO NOT do this.:Pokey:

Absolutely, dont deny it for one second. Its measly ''payback'' when for example you look as an employer at what you are paying in mindless parasitical levies for this and that. If business was all a bed of roses more would survive.

[Shaun]

Im bowing out, cant be bothered arguing about it.

buy whereever you want people, I just think if its in NZ get it here, otherwise no one will bother bringing it in anymore.

have a good one

Shaun dont be a grumpy bugger, I still love you ya big poof head




Thanks big fulla













Jus had to ask a couple of questions

[cs363]

Robert T and Quasi evel, how many times and miles have you both driven your officual buisness vehicles on private buisness? That the company fuel card paid for, YEP guys, that is also ripping off the NZ economy, and do not try to say you DO NOT do this.:Pokey:

Maybe I'm missing something here, but how is that ripping off the NZ economy?
If a business vehicle is used for private use, you pay FBT. Presumably the vehicle was purchased in NZ as is the fuel, oil, tyres and other running expenses, all of which are taxed (and taxed and taxed etc). The only people I see getting a slightly raw deal out of this is the company concerned.
Not trying to be a smart ass but to me this seems more like a contribution than a rip off?

[Robert Taylor]

Maybe I'm missing something here, but how is that ripping off the NZ economy?
If a business vehicle is used for private use, you pay FBT. Presumably the vehicle was purchased in NZ as is the fuel, oil, tyres and other running expenses, all of which are taxed (and taxed and taxed etc). The only people I see getting a slightly raw deal out of this is the company concerned.
Not trying to be a smart ass but to me this seems more like a contribution than a rip off?

Yes, all purchased locally, proudly supporting NZ business and thereby supporting NZ workers. And I can assure you that we are by no means making huge profits, averse to the simplistic notion that we have huge margins and healthy after tax profits. Otherwise we would be driving around in Hummers. Not likely for one moment.

[Fatjim]

These threads always winde me up soo much...

Soo many people THINK they know how this industry works.
Let me tell you... Reading the posts on this thread. Proves that many of you are just repeating what you have heard or read somewhere. And no offence but I only see a few on here who have a clue about whats really going on.

Take from that what you will. Cry me a river even. Boo Hoo and all that other crap.
The industry isnt perfect, but its not exactly terrible either.

Did you know that Shoei helmets cost more in Oz...?
$1250 in Oz for an X-spirit (they call them X Eleven's) $999 here.
OH MY GOD!!! WHAT RIP OFFS!!!:msn-wink:

Alpinestars Race Rep Suits.... 2500 Euro....
But sell for $3500 here. You do the math.

Sparky, before I bought my X-11 last year I came and saw you for a price and ETA. 3 months and $1200+. Within a week I had it from Japan, for less than $800.

Try getting leathers to fit me in NZ, or boots. Would it hurt the importers to bring in size 49 sports boots? I'm not the only size 49 in NZ. Surely Sugilite has big feet as well?

It would take little effort for a motorcycle shop to set up the supply of Shoei helmets on a 7 day turnaround (mine took 3 business days to arrive from the time I paid the bill) However the problem is I suggest, that the Shoei distributor would take a dim view and the shop may find it hard to source other brands such as RK, Teknic, Dririder etc.

I suggest that you give the local guys a chance, but check prices, especially in the US. Also weigh up whether after sales service is important or not. If you save $500 on a pair of boots and a jacket by buying in the US why would you want to support the local distibutor?

[cs363]

Try getting leathers to fit me in NZ, or boots. Would it hurt the importers to bring in size 49 sports boots? I'm not the only size 49 in NZ. Surely Sugilite has big feet as well?


Seems at least one importer covers your needs.....
http://vm.net.nz/crownkiwi/catalogue/showitem.jsp?ItemID=6440&category=39&customlist=1&pageCount=19
http://vm.net.nz/crownkiwi/catalogue/showitem.jsp?ItemID=5242&category=39&customlist=1&pageCount=19
http://vm.net.nz/crownkiwi/catalogue/showitem.jsp?ItemID=4259&category=39&customlist=1&pageCount=19

All from here: http://crownkiwi.co.nz/ its their dealer site but those are RRP's. It makes me wonder how often a lot of these buying decisions are made out of an ignorance (no offence intended) of whats available or maybe some dealers not making the effort?

[Fatjim]

Seems at least one importer covers your needs.....
http://vm.net.nz/crownkiwi/catalogue/showitem.jsp?ItemID=6440&category=39&customlist=1&pageCount=19


All from here: http://crownkiwi.co.nz/ its their dealer site but those are RRP's. It makes me wonder how often a lot of these buying decisions are made out of an ignorance (no offence intended) of whats available or maybe some dealers not making the effort?

I have in fact got these boots. I purchased them with a jacket and gloves last year for around $800 including shipping and (fuck I hate bikebandit) pre charge import duty. Took about a week to 10 days to get to my door.

The boots alone here are $449. I'd be looking at about $1200 all up I guess for the gloves and jacket as well (I haven't seen the jacket in NZ, and certainly not in a XXXL size).

[Shaun]

Absolutely, dont deny it for one second. Its measly ''payback'' when for example you look as an employer at what you are paying in mindless parasitical levies for this and that. If business was all a bed of roses more would survive.



Poker poke what ever BUT

Robert, this is you admittiing to having double standards!

You get on here and put down people for using the internet for cheaper purchase options, but ALSO ADMITT to ripping of the system your self!

Where does it all start and stop powl.

The system is the system, and as an employer, YOU are making money off your staff, so fair enough that you as a buisness pay taxes etc- NOT CONTRIBUTING TO RIPPING THE SYSTEM OFF.:2guns:

[Robert Taylor]

Poker poke what ever BUT

Robert, this is you admittiing to having double standards!

You get on here and put down people for using the internet for cheaper purchase options, but ALSO ADMITT to ripping of the system your self!

Where does it all start and stop powl.

The system is the system, and as an employer, YOU are making money off your staff, so fair enough that you as a buisness pay taxes etc- NOT CONTRIBUTING TO RIPPING THE SYSTEM OFF.:2guns:

I think you should spare yourself further embarassment because frankly you are clutching at very thin straws and not making a whole load of sense. Dont start me on ripping off the system while you are standing on precariously thin ice.
At all times my line is support the NZ economy and therefore support our own workers.
That is enough said.

[cs363]

The system is the system, and as an employer, YOU are making money off your staff, so fair enough that you as a buisness pay taxes etc- NOT CONTRIBUTING TO RIPPING THE SYSTEM OFF.:2guns:


I can't believe that slavery is alive and well at Ohlins NZ HQ!!?? I know you are a bit behind the times on some things Robert, but slavery was abolished quite some time ago - I suggest you start paying your staff immediately!

[cs363]

I have in fact got these boots. I purchased them with a jacket and gloves last year for around $800 including shipping and (fuck I hate bikebandit) pre charge import duty. Took about a week to 10 days to get to my door.

The boots alone here are $449. I'd be looking at about $1200 all up I guess for the gloves and jacket as well (I haven't seen the jacket in NZ, and certainly not in a XXXL size).

So what happens if you have a warranty issue with the boots or the jacket? Will you be sending them back to Bike Bandit or expecting your local dealer and whichever importers to cover that even though you cut them out of the original purchase? Are you aware that some companies make their distributors carry the local warranty costs out of their profit, or do not cover the entire cost of repair/replacement etc?
You also (erroneously) complain that no one carries your size in NZ - frankly would it be any wonder when you don't support them anyway?

No one is denying that you can buy things (and not just m/c accessories and parts) cheaper overseas, but the point that most people seem to be trying to make is that if we all went that way you would end up with no dealers, so what then? Buy bikes from overseas? What happens then with servicing and warranty and parts etc?

I don't think anyone has an issue with people picking up some goodies when on an overseas trip, or buying things that aren't available here etc., but when someone is making the effort to service our sport (and I'm including sponsorship and support of individuals & events that we all take for granted, magazines that we all enjoy that these same dealers and importers fund via advertising - you don't think the cover price pays for that nice glossy magazine do you?) and making a modest profit to cover overheads, it just seems wrong and short sighted to me.
The other factor is that most dealers would be happy to offer a deal to someone spending a reasonable amount of money on several items - it's rare that people will pay full retail in instances like that.


Your complaint regarding pricing would be valid if private individuals were on a level playing field with the importers, yet in most cases they are buying from far larger markets where sales volumes are much, much higher enabling shops to bulk buy with appropriate discounts and work on lower margins. They also don't have to pay all the import charges - at worst most will just pay GST and if shipped by FedEx a small brokerage fee. (There should be no duty on boots or textile jackets with armour)
An importer on the other hand will have to pay bank fees (usually at both ends), customs entry charges, customs EDI fees, document fees, terminal transfer fees, port charges, LCL/FCL fees, cartage at both ends and often more fees (they vary between air and sea imports) then being small businesses they are probably operating on an overdraft so factor in the cost of servicing that, add mortgage or rent, all the usual overheads such as power, phone etc. Add running expenses for sales reps, wages for their staff (and of course we all want more pay) and so it goes on.

So what you say, that's not my problem - well it pretty damn well will be soon if whatever job you are in is affected by that company losing revenue to people buying the same products it sells from offshore.

Don't take this as a personal attack on you Jim, I'm just trying to point out that there is a hell of a lot more to the equation than just a short term gain by buying cheap products from overseas.

[BIGBOSSMAN]

Your complaint regarding pricing would be valid if private individuals were on a level playing field with the importers, yet in most cases they are buying from far larger markets where sales volumes are much, much higher enabling shops to bulk buy with appropriate discounts and work on lower margins. They also don't have to pay all the import charges - at worst most will just pay GST and if shipped by FedEx a small brokerage fee. (There should be no duty on boots or textile jackets with armour)
An importer on the other hand will have to pay bank fees (usually at both ends), customs entry charges, customs EDI fees, document fees, terminal transfer fees, port charges, LCL/FCL fees, cartage at both ends and often more fees (they vary between air and sea imports) then being small businesses they are probably operating on an overdraft so factor in the cost of servicing that, add mortgage or rent, all the usual overheads such as power, phone etc. Add running expenses for sales reps, wages for their staff (and of course we all want more pay) and so it goes on.

Buddy, all the moaning and groaning about "it's just not fair!" won't do a thing. The door is open for people to import gear for significantly less than be bought at shop level here, it's up to the purchaser as to whether it's worth it (taking service back-up etc in to consideration).
That's the reality, personally I wouldn't take a chance with certain items but the hell I'm going to pay three times the price for 'genuine' parts for my motorcycle. I wasn't born yesterday!

[Katman]

but the hell I'm going to pay three times the price for 'genuine' parts for my motorcycle.

Neither would I. If there is a reputable aftermarket option available in N.Z. for a motorcycle component why would you pay the ridiculous prices that they (particularly Suzuki N.Z. and BlueWing Honda) ask for 'genuine' ones?

But that's not actually what we're talking about.

[cs363]

Buddy, all the moaning and groaning about "it's just not fair!" won't do a thing. The door is open for people to import gear for significantly less than be bought at shop level here, it's up to the purchaser as to whether it's worth it (taking service back-up etc in to consideration).
That's the reality, personally I wouldn't take a chance with certain items but the hell I'm going to pay three times the price for 'genuine' parts for my motorcycle. I wasn't born yesterday!

Oh I'm well aware that highlighting the fact that it's not fair won't do a thing, particularly under the present government - but that's a whole new thread right there.
The point, as you came close to realising in the middle of your post is that it's up to the purchaser as to whether it's worth it after taking the big picture into consideration.
When there is no NZ motorcycle industry left because of everyone taking the 'it's all about me' approach and motorcycles become an imported luxury only the very rich (if there will be any of them left in NZ by that time!) can afford, don't come crying to me or any of the others on this thread that can see past cheap prices on the internet.
I value good service, advice and the back up a good dealer can provide and don't mind paying a moderate amount more to have this available to me.

[BIGBOSSMAN]

Oh I'm well aware that highlighting the fact that it's not fair won't do a thing, particularly under the present government - but that's a whole new thread right there.
The point, as you came close to realising in the middle of your post is that it's up to the purchaser as to whether it's worth it after taking the big picture into consideration.
When there is no NZ motorcycle industry left because of everyone taking the 'it's all about me' approach and motorcycles become an imported luxury only the very rich (if there will be any of them left in NZ by that time!) can afford, don't come crying to me or any of the others on this thread that can see past cheap prices on the internet.
I value good service, advice and the back up a good dealer can provide and don't mind paying a moderate amount more to have this available to me.

I'm not necessarily disagreeing with you, just stating the obvious reality. Opening up importation regulations has turned the local market into an international one, not helped by a very good exchange rate of late and the fact that we are in a low wage economy here in NZ.
Just remember - people that ride motorcycles also have to buy shoes, clothe kids, pay for food/petrol/rates and mortgages, and they're not going down in price anytime soon by the look of it.
Kind of makes paying 30 - 50% less on goods via the net pretty attractive, doesn't it?
My 2c (rounded up to 5c - luckily paid in $US to take advantage of the exchange rate)

[cs363]

I'm not necessarily disagreeing with you, just stating the obvious reality. Opening up importation regulations has turned the local market into an international one, not helped by a very good exchange rate of late and the fact that we are in a low wage economy here in NZ.
Just remember - people that ride motorcycles also have to buy shoes, clothe kids, pay for food/petrol/rates and mortgages, and they're not going down in price anytime soon by the look of it.
Kind of makes paying 30 - 50% less on goods via the net pretty attractive, doesn't it?
My 2c (rounded up to 5c - luckily paid in $US to take advantage of the exchange rate)

Lol, and I'm not necessarily totally disagreeing with you either - and in fact, you've hit upon one of the main points that several of us are trying to make. It's not the bike shops or importers that are the villains here, the ball is well and truly in the governments court on the majority of the issues you raise in your post.
Though it does make me wonder why given the points raised about our reliance on having a local industry for all the good things it allows us to enjoy - why don't people try and support their local dealers where possible (assuming they are providing you with good service etc) and perhaps buy their kids clothes, shoes etc offshore as there are also savings to be made on these items?
But back to the governments role - if import regs were tightened up and local businesses (not just motorcycle industry ones either) weren't losing out to overseas companies and money wasn't going offshore etc then the likely outcome is that we would be enjoying higher wages, a more even exchange rate etc.....kind of a viscious circle really. (yes I know it's all a bit oversimplified, but the so are plenty of the opposing arguments!)

[=cJ=]

**Shrug**

I buy local.

By the time I've bugged the poor sales guys for days and asked them to get other sizes in so I can make sure I'm getting the right fit and sat on all their bikes and then had the cheek to see if I can get something thrown in with whatever I'm buying...

I kinda reckon they've earnt/deserve at least the price difference between me importing and what I paid.

I figure it's worth paying to have someone to bug who knows their products and is willing to help me out and will help me out if anything goes wrong with whatever I've bought...

[The Stranger]

That's the reality, personally I wouldn't take a chance with certain items but the hell I'm going to pay three times the price for 'genuine' parts for my motorcycle. I wasn't born yesterday!

Aren't genuine parts a classic case though of the support you do get when you rely upon the importer for service.

They never bloody have them. Sure spark plugs, oil filters and brake shoes, but anything else and it has to come from Japan. Tide has been waiting 7 weeks for the parts for his ER6. I know a LOT of people whom have had to wait looooong periods of time for their genuine parts - even for the likes of a Hayabusa, which after selling many of them over many years, you still have to wait for parts.

Now this IS with bikes purchased locally from the local distributor. So they get our support as suggested in this thread and the benefits to we the consumer is what again?

Exorbitant prices and no stock. Even the warranty can be a mission at times.

[Robert Taylor]

Aren't genuine parts a classic case though of the support you do get when you rely upon the importer for service.

They never bloody have them. Sure spark plugs, oil filters and brake shoes, but anything else and it has to come from Japan. Tide has been waiting 7 weeks for the parts for his ER6. I know a LOT of people whom have had to wait looooong periods of time for their genuine parts - even for the likes of a Hayabusa, which after selling many of them over many years, you still have to wait for parts.

Now this IS with bikes purchased locally from the local distributor. So they get our support as suggested in this thread and the benefits to we the consumer is what again?

Exorbitant prices and no stock. Even the warranty can be a mission at times.

Ive heard this tired old argument since time immemorial and it always forgets that our tiny population and very distanced isolation exacerbates such issues. Please understand that not all distributors are tarred with the same brush and that I am in no way acting as an apologist. But having worked in both retail / wholesale and having travelled widely I think I have a fair appreciation.
The cold hard reality is that a low population equals low stock turn equals a disproportionately high cost of carrying stock. We simply do not have economy of scale and millions of customers to justify larger inventories, it is as simple as that, unless as a business you want to commit suicide. Customers want all the trappings of the first world economies but pay scant homage to the limitations of our tiny economy.
Given the further pressures of the weak $US and the business costs so ably listed by CS363 its amazing many distributors stock as much as they do.
I do detect in a number of the posts ''I dont give a stuff about suporting NZ business ( and by implication ) NZ workers'' Thankfully not everyone thinks like that.

[The Stranger]

Ive heard this tired old argument since time immemorial and it always forgets that our tiny population and very distanced isolation exacerbates such issues. Please understand that not all distributors are tarred with the same brush and that I am in no way acting as an apologist. But having worked in both retail / wholesale and having travelled widely I think I have a fair appreciation.
The cold hard reality is that a low population equals low stock turn equals a disproportionately high cost of carrying stock. We simply do not have economy of scale and millions of customers to justify larger inventories, it is as simple as that, unless as a business you want to commit suicide. Customers want all the trappings of the first world economies but pay scant homage to the limitations of our tiny economy.
Given the further pressures of the weak $US and the business costs so ably listed by CS363 its amazing many distributors stock as much as they do.
I do detect in a number of the posts ''I dont give a stuff about suporting NZ business ( and by implication ) NZ workers'' Thankfully not everyone thinks like that.

I do give a stuff about supporting NZ companies and workers - now how about quid pro quo thanks.

Thanks for the excuses Robert, however as BOTH a consumer and self employed business owner I really don't give a rats about the excuses (economy, economies of scale etc etc) you find a way to make it work for yourself AND your customer. Get creative, think outside the square (do the dealers realise that we have flying machines these days?) if not customers go elsewhere. Simple - and the crux of discussion really, and the way it is in my business too and the way it should be.

[Robert Taylor]

I do give a stuff about supporting NZ companies and workers - now how about quid pro quo thanks.

Thanks for the excuses Robert, however as BOTH a consumer and self employed business owner I really don't give a rats about the excuses (economy, economies of scale etc etc) you find a way to make it work for yourself AND your customer. Get creative, think outside the square (do the dealers realise that we have flying machines these days?) if not customers go elsewhere. Simple - and the crux of discussion really, and the way it is in my business too and the way it should be.

Note that the comments were generalised and ( again )that not every distributor is tarred with the same brush. I wasnt singling you out ( at all ) and was trying to present reasons ( not excuses ) for the other side of the argument. Nothing more or less.

[vifferman]

... you find a way to make it work for yourself AND your customer.
:niceone:
I was just about to post that "it's all about service". I'm prepared to pay a bit extra for that - if the local service is good, and the retailer actually acts like they give a damn about my custom, then I'll be their customer. However, as many on here have posted, the service and attitude at many bike shops is abysmal - many act like they're doing you a favour, or even as though you're a nuisance to them.

And if I need a part - something like brake parts that should be standard stock - why should I have to wait three weeks for them? Or seven months (my worst example), when they can be had over the Interdweeb in a week? And that's not usually the shop's fault - it's the importer. Their dealers are obviously in a position where as customers they're getting shit service from the importer, but aren't (usually) in a position to take their custom elsewhere.

To me, the bottom line is that it's all about if you're a shop, or are offering a service, you need to take care of your customers, or they'll go elsewhere. Yes, you have to make a decent margin or you'll go out of business, and part of looking after your customers is ensuring economic viability so that you're there for the long term. It's also about decent service at a decent price, and supply and demand. It's a bit crap if there's a demand that's not being met, because of supply problems or an arrogant attitude.

[Shaun]

Robert Taylor
Hardcore Biker
♂
Bike: None
Location: New Plymouth
Posts: 975


Quote:
Originally Posted by Shaun
Robert T and Quasi evel, how many times and miles have you both driven your officual buisness vehicles on private buisness? That the company fuel card paid for, YEP guys, that is also ripping off the NZ economy, and do not try to say you DO NOT do this.

Absolutely, dont deny it for one second. Its measly ''payback'' when for example you look as an employer at what you are paying in mindless parasitical levies for this and that. If business was all a bed of roses more would survive.
__________________

1) So here you are admitting to stealing from the NZ economy!



2) And here you are SLANDERING me, trying to imply, that I AM the one ripping the system off.
Robert Taylor
Hardcore Biker
♂
Bike: None
Location: New Plymouth
Posts: 975


Quote:
Originally Posted by Shaun
Poker poke what ever BUT

Robert, this is you admittiing to having double standards!
.

I think you should spare yourself further embarassment because frankly you are clutching at very thin straws and not making a whole load of sense. Dont start me on ripping off the system while you are standing on precariously thin ice.
At all times my line is support the NZ economy and therefore support our own workers.
That is enough said.
__________________



I am NOT ON THIN ICE AT ALL, perhaps you need to go and look at all the bullshit invoices for the product that you purchased through the USA a while ago, WITH FALSE invoice ammounts, for TAX reasons:doh:

If you are going to preach and try to pretend to perfect, you better be:bleh:

[BIGBOSSMAN]

why don't people try and support their local dealers where possible (assuming they are providing you with good service etc) and perhaps buy their kids clothes, shoes etc offshore as there are also savings to be made on these items?

Ah yes, but instead of putting bike-related businesses under the cosh that will drive business away from clothes and shoe shops - you see there isn't an easy answer, NZ has always been a cut-price economy when it comes to shopping (think The Warehouse - where everybody gets a bargain) and it's also very much human nature to get the best deal possible.
I wouldn't want to be in any sort of retail at the moment, the private import market has yet to really take off and when it does it's going to get real ugly for business owners here...

ps Shaun and Robert stop the shitfight eh!

[Katman]

Quote:
Originally Posted by Shaun.............

__________________






...........

Oh dear, how embarassing.

[cs363]

Ah yes, but instead of putting bike-related businesses under the cosh that will drive business away from clothes and shoe shops - you see there isn't an easy answer, NZ has always been a cut-price economy when it comes to shopping (think The Warehouse - where everybody gets a bargain) and it's also very much human nature to get the best deal possible.
I wouldn't want to be in any sort of retail at the moment, the private import market has yet to really take off and when it does it's going to get real ugly for business owners here...

ps Shaun and Robert stop the shitfight eh!

Difference being that we don't rely on clothes & shoe shops to support our sport or service our bikes.....

[cs363]

I am NOT ON THIN ICE AT ALL, perhaps you need to go and look at all the bullshit invoices for the product that you purchased through the USA a while ago, WITH FALSE invoice ammounts, for TAX reasons:doh:

If you are going to preach and try to pretend to perfect, you better be:bleh:

I don't know about Robert slandering you, but I would think this is clearly slander - I'd suggest that if you want to raise personal accusations like this you be better off doing it in private, rather than in a public forum - I can hear the lawyers rubbing their hands together as we speak.

[FastBikeGear]

So it seems like Im stuck between a rock and a hard place. Importing is cheaper as Im a rediculously poor student, but kinda dont wana piss off shops by trying on gear just to waste their time.

Seems like you want your cake and to eat it to.

You want the service a shop provides, the ability to try on stock (and I bet you listen to their advice while you are doing this too) and then you want the cheap overseas pricing.

How many of us are guilty of this?

[Robert Taylor]

I don't know about Robert slandering you, but I would think this is clearly slander - I'd suggest that if you want to raise personal accusations like this you be better off doing it in private, rather than in a public forum - I can hear the lawyers rubbing their hands together as we speak.

Indeed a few years ago there were a handful of small shipments received from the US with invoices that were economical with the price until it was decided this is really not the most palatable way of doing things and everything has to stand up to its true add on costs. i.e all of the processing and port fees plus gst on those fees and the value of the goods. That inevitably reflects in a higher end price to the consumer. In truth it can often be more of a issue for the seller when they provide a paper trail to their respective government bodies.
From that position I know very well what goes on to this day. Just two days ago I sold a shock and I was competing with a company in the States that was prepared to doctor the invoice so that it landed at below the value threshold for the prospective private purchaser. I.e that would attract gst on value, a customs clearance fee and gst on that fee. In the end event we sold the shock because I was prepared to be a little flexible on price, I traded his existing shock ( Ohlins for Ohlins ) and he knows that we provide full backup and local service.
So again I state we are not operating in an environment that is a level playing field.
As most of us get older we mellow out and play by the rules. Ive got 80 demerit points for speeding at present because I didnt play by those rules. And I do have a confession to make there....I asked each respective officer if I could make the cheque out there and then and directly to any nominated iwi so I could save the cost of the middle man. I was courteous and polite to the respective officers and at no time was I rude and abusing / threatening. That has borne fruit because one of these guys is building a project bike and requires a scratch build shock.

[Tony.OK]

So is buying from out of town in the same category as well, I'm in affect not supporting my province by doing so.
I think its time some businesses starting taking a look at where they are going customer service wise.
To me a bike shop should have staff that know their products inside out.
eg.....went to one of my locals to look into buying brand new bike, rep took details etc.........never heard back, went back a couple of months later to get a chain riveter...........they had no idea what I was talking about.......useless......will never go back.
Eg 2- having an arguement with shop owner about what specs a bike has that I was keen on buying, I'd done what I always do and research the shit out of it........then get nothing but bollocks from owner.

There is definately something lacking in alot of customer service in NZ, yes there are some that are outstanding but just not enough.

[duckonin]

I buy overseas and aslo locally, have also been in business, to start at the start of all costs in running a business is rent if you do not own your own building then you have to rent it and a big business man wants a good 10%er working for him plus maintenance plus insurance ect ect... "now you all do the figures", we will start with a modern premises, taking into account position and flow of public, worth a modest $1000,000, that is a lot of profit to make before paying any other costs, one could write a book on the pro's and con's of being in business..

There are a lot who put their finger in the pie, before the chap that does the work, so without these hard workers taking risks, where would we shop then..

[Robert Taylor]

I do give a stuff about supporting NZ companies and workers - now how about quid pro quo thanks.

Thanks for the excuses Robert, however as BOTH a consumer and self employed business owner I really don't give a rats about the excuses (economy, economies of scale etc etc) you find a way to make it work for yourself AND your customer. Get creative, think outside the square (do the dealers realise that we have flying machines these days?) if not customers go elsewhere. Simple - and the crux of discussion really, and the way it is in my business too and the way it should be.

Just adding a little further to my quickfire reply to you yesterday, and please accept that this is presented as a ''clinical comparison'' only, are we comparing apples for apples when we mention that we are in business? The point I am leading to is that businesses can be very diverse and to that end can I quote 2 very opposite examples;

Example 1 A high Street gift shop selling largely imported goods. The goods on sale are evolving all the time and there are very very few if any issues requiring spare parts or any form of backup. A relatively non complex business. An even more extreme example would be an ice cream vendor.

Example 2 A major motorcycle distributor representing one of the top brands. Parts and inventory to try and provide ''coverage'' for literally decades and thousands upon thousands of models, spec code variations, colour code variations, superceded parts, etc. Try and maintain a stock turn that doesnt send them to the wall and service a small percentage of a country of only 4 million inhabitants that still want all the trappings of the first world countries.

I am struggling to recognise many other industries that are so complex with parts and backup issues that can both span decades and have such a plethora of models and variations. And its too easy for people to say ''they are doing a bad job''

Again, this is not an apology for the way it is, I am simply offering a perspective of the other side.

[Robert Taylor]

So is buying from out of town in the same category as well, I'm in affect not supporting my province by doing so.
I think its time some businesses starting taking a look at where they are going customer service wise.
To me a bike shop should have staff that know their products inside out.
eg.....went to one of my locals to look into buying brand new bike, rep took details etc.........never heard back, went back a couple of months later to get a chain riveter...........they had no idea what I was talking about.......useless......will never go back.
Eg 2- having an arguement with shop owner about what specs a bike has that I was keen on buying, I'd done what I always do and research the shit out of it........then get nothing but bollocks from owner.

There is definately something lacking in alot of customer service in NZ, yes there are some that are outstanding but just not enough.

Fair comments and I guess its relevant to say if they dont work for the sale should they have it?

[Robert Taylor]

:niceone:
I was just about to post that "it's all about service". I'm prepared to pay a bit extra for that - if the local service is good, and the retailer actually acts like they give a damn about my custom, then I'll be their customer. However, as many on here have posted, the service and attitude at many bike shops is abysmal - many act like they're doing you a favour, or even as though you're a nuisance to them.

And if I need a part - something like brake parts that should be standard stock - why should I have to wait three weeks for them? Or seven months (my worst example), when they can be had over the Interdweeb in a week? And that's not usually the shop's fault - it's the importer. Their dealers are obviously in a position where as customers they're getting shit service from the importer, but aren't (usually) in a position to take their custom elsewhere.

To me, the bottom line is that it's all about if you're a shop, or are offering a service, you need to take care of your customers, or they'll go elsewhere. Yes, you have to make a decent margin or you'll go out of business, and part of looking after your customers is ensuring economic viability so that you're there for the long term. It's also about decent service at a decent price, and supply and demand. It's a bit crap if there's a demand that's not being met, because of supply problems or an arrogant attitude.

In fairness also its very often tied in to when the goods are produced by the very manufacturer who then supplies to the distributor. Some of the lead times are very long, we as a country order very small quantities and the whole issue is exacerbated. Its just not as simple as people often think.

[tommorth]

i think someone should have all parts for any bike sold new in last 5 years in the country at all time wouldnt really be that hard and would save heaps of fluffing around surface shipping bike parts from japan is just stupid .

I buy most stuff from the dealer and have had amazing luck even owning a 18year old jdm model kdx mt eden mc have ether had the parts in stock or in store in two days,
I'm a big supporter of buying stuff localy but do buy bits and pieces over the net occasionaly. I think another reason people buy stuff online is that if your working its bloody hard to find time to actually go into a shop.

Robert and Shaun please cut the personal attacks and holyer than thou crap i dont think any one wants to hear it.
go have a fight or somthing :bash:

[Shaun]

i think someone should have all parts for any bike sold new in last 5 years in the country at all time wouldnt really be that hard and would save heaps of fluffing around surface shipping bike parts from japan is just stupid .

I buy most stuff from the dealer and have had amazing luck even owning a 18year old jdm model kdx mt eden mc have ether had the parts in stock or in store in two days,
I'm a big supporter of buying stuff localy but do buy bits and pieces over the net occasionaly. I think another reason people buy stuff online is that if your working its bloody hard to find time to actually go into a shop.

Robert and Shaun please cut the personal attacks and holyer than thou crap i dont think any one wants to hear it.
go have a fight or somthing :bash:


Fair cool. No more from me.

[cs363]

i think someone should have all parts for any bike sold new in last 5 years in the country at all time wouldnt really be that hard and would save heaps of fluffing around surface shipping bike parts from japan is just stupid .

I buy most stuff from the dealer and have had amazing luck even owning a 18year old jdm model kdx mt eden mc have ether had the parts in stock or in store in two days,


That would be wonderful in an ideal world - unfortunately of course we don't live in one. Have you actually thought about what you said here?
Any idea of the total number of parts involved in a bike even as relatively simple as yours?
Seriously....if the importers were to carry parts at that level you would be subsidising the cost of the redundant parts (and boy, with stock levels ike you are suggesting there would be a huge pile!) with your purchase price which I would conservatively guess would double. If the price of the bike didn't go up, you could bet your arse that the parts prices would - no business is going to be able to afford to carry that much dead or slow moving stock, especially when you extrapolate that out to all the various models/years etc.
You are very fortunate that you have one of the few Japanese bikes that has remained virtually unchanged throughout its inordinately long model life, your bike was the same 89-94, then the next model (95 on) barely changed up to the current day (I believe production has now ceased, though there are still a few new ones in dealers showrooms). Even the very early model KDX's share parts with the later ones. Frankly, for a model with that kind of model life the importers would have a lot to answer for if they couldn't provide good supply of common parts.
I think you would find that parts availability for less common Kawasaki models would be much in line with everything else.
Even Harley Davidson don't carry as complete a parts range as you are suggesting, and some unkind souls would argue that they haven't changed since Adam was a cowboy..... (awaits posts from aggreived HD owners, lol)

[SupaCross Cycles]

Just make sure they have safety ratings as a lot of the cheap copies do not pass euro standards

check out www.vroom.co.nz

[The Stranger]

Just adding a little further to my quickfire reply to you yesterday, and please accept that this is presented as a ''clinical comparison'' only, are we comparing apples for apples when we mention that we are in business? The point I am leading to is that businesses can be very diverse and to that end can I quote 2 very opposite examples;


I really see little point getting into specifics of each industry. Through my work I have come into contact with many many industries. My experience is that they all face a unique set of problems.



I am struggling to recognise many other industries that are so complex with parts and backup issues that can both span decades and have such a plethora of models and variations. And its too easy for people to say ''they are doing a bad job''


How about the auto (car) industry?
They have far more models, more colours and more parts.
Parts and issues can span many decades.
Their parts are larger and more numerous requiring more space to store them and greater holding costs.
Yet I find parts are significatnly more readily available for cars than bikes.
My son has a jap import 4WD Nissan Primera. I don't believe they were ever released over here, either way they are pretty rare. It has had an engine transplant from another model import wreck. Despite needing many parts to build/rebuild this car, the only one we have had to wait for is a single engine mount. And that was here ex Japan in 5 days.
Not 7 weeks like the ER6.

[tommorth]

it wouldnt be that hard to set up if you did it progessivly as a new model was introduced it wouldnt need to be a set for every dealer just say one for the north
island and one for the south just so that if you needed somthing then it was already here ,yes it would cost but not a huge amount in the scheme of things.

With a bike like an er6 which is aimed as a do everything use evey day current model bike its just not good enough for someone to be expected to wait 7 week for parts. I would be ashamed to be offering that sort of service.

and yes i am lucky that my kdx has relativly common parts but it is a jdm model and parts like the waterpump seals are unique to this model bike which im pretty sure wasnt sold new here and they still have them in stock
About the only parts the same from a 89-94 kdx to a 95-06 kdx bottom end if the engine carb and piston and even then some bits are differnt plus rolling changes made during each models life

[The Stranger]

I find this thread very interesting for another reason.

In my experience customers rarely tell you what they want or expect and rarely volunteer feedback. When I do get open and honest feedback, whether it is good or bad I treat it as gold. This is the best stuff you can get. There are a few things I won’t do. I won’t argue with my customers and I won’t tell them they are wrong.
I will listen carefully; take on board what they say and try very hard to improve on where they perceive my deficiencies to lie.

All I seem to get from this thread from the dealers is more of what we are used to i.e. this is what you are going to get and you are going to like it - oh and you bastards, you should be buying from us!

So come on dealers, what are you going to do with this opportunity that has been presented here? How are you going to go about improving our (i.e. your customers) perception of you?

[Robert Taylor]

I really see little point getting into specifics of each industry. Through my work I have come into contact with many many industries. My experience is that they all face a unique set of problems.



How about the auto (car) industry?
They have far more models, more colours and more parts.
Parts and issues can span many decades.
Their parts are larger and more numerous requiring more space to store them and greater holding costs.
Yet I find parts are significatnly more readily available for cars than bikes.
My son has a jap import 4WD Nissan Primera. I don't believe they were ever released over here, either way they are pretty rare. It has had an engine transplant from another model import wreck. Despite needing many parts to build/rebuild this car, the only one we have had to wait for is a single engine mount. And that was here ex Japan in 5 days.
Not 7 weeks like the ER6.

Yes indeed every industry does have its unique set of problems. But in all fairness when you quote the auto industry you are talking a much larger economy of scale and a much much higher ratio of customers per specific model. This argument can go round and round but the fact remains that stockholding very large inventories of parts is not as simple as some would like to believe. CS363 has described it very accurately. If every single part was stocked the end prices would rise significantly due to the cost of holding it with extended real estate space, low stock turn due to a low number of consumers and a MUCH higher percentage of dead stock, write offs. Simply, this would further accelerate offshore purchases. No distributor would willingly commit such economic suicide. We have 4 million people, not 40 million!
I started posting on this thread because I have worked in all sectors of the industry and often I see many distributors of product unfairly maligned by arguments that are not in command of all the facts. A debate where all parties give even consideration to all arguments ( and to do so with good manners and temperament ) is a good debate. But alas, it is so often a human failing that many will hear only what they want to hear.

[slopster]

I tend to think if I can buy a single product in from ebay for myself and do it for half the price that it is sold for locally there is no way I'm buying locally. If the local shops can't match these prices maybe they should be aiming more for the service side of industry. I'm quite happy to pay someone to do something I'm not capable of doing myself. And theres always things that everyone will buy locally. Small stuff you don't want to wait 3 weeks for and things like new bikes.

[Robert Taylor]

I tend to think if I can buy a single product in from ebay for myself and do it for half the price that it is sold for locally there is no way I'm buying locally. If the local shops can't match these prices maybe they should be aiming more for the service side of industry. I'm quite happy to pay someone to do something I'm not capable of doing myself. And theres always things that everyone will buy locally. Small stuff you don't want to wait 3 weeks for and things like new bikes.

Looking at the big picture of what is actually good for the country as a whole an exchange rate of between 50 to 60 cents US per $1 NZ is best. Good for our exporters who are employers, also good for our domestic businesses who are also employers.

[TLDV8]

I have supported NZ retailers since 1976... $1000 for a Spidi jacket ?? ... Arai helmet for over $1000 ?? etc etc TL parts that cost near the same as when the exchange rate was NZ 41 cents on the US dollar... Suzuki NZ means bent over for parts.

The flip side is Aussie based,there was no way i was going to pay $899 for a Arai XD 3 when i could buy one from the US for $478.
My Belstaff Adventure jacket arrived last week,excellent quality by all accounts,perfect fit,not available here that i could find.
Spending for the last two weeks or so around $3000,only oil and a filter purchased locally.
DR650 that cost NZ$10700 ? had to put it in for its first service which was an oil change for AU$195,sump plug and oil filter cover still covered in dirt when i got it back,i then proceeded to clean those area's and change the oil and filter myself followed by a valve clearance check etc etc as per the first service in the manual .!!!!
It is not a charity either side of the fence,retailer or customer.

[TLDV8]

Maybe i should add,although in Australia i am still supporting NZ retailers one way or another. :msn-wink:

Big thanks to Mike (98TLS) for posting out a set of not available here Buzzetti tyre levers. :niceone:

[Robert Taylor]

Maybe i should add,although in Australia i am still supporting NZ retailers one way or another. :msn-wink:

Big thanks to Mike (98TLS) for posting out a set of not available here Buzzetti tyre levers. :niceone:

And thankyou for that! The remaining parts to complete construction of your DR650 shock are winging their way from Sweden as we speak.
I must make a point here, I have a gentlemans agreement with the Aussie Ohlins distributor to not parasite into his market and vice versa. It was only because Steve was unable to build a shock for you that I agreed to sell it into Australia. Thats an old fashioned ethic and I am proud of it.
You also make a point about bad service, as you well realise that happens everywhere on the globe and is roughly concurrent with an overall lowering of societys standards. Some people may poo poo me for saying that but boy ''aint it the truth''.

[Stormer]

Right...
www.lifestyle-imports.co.nz
Supporting NZ dealers...I emailed enquiring about the availability of their leather pants with sliders...
Three days later and no replies.
If this was a yank site, then the next day (given the time diff.) I would have had a reply.
I`m just gonna go to Jeffery Chandell leathers 10 mins south of here and get him to make me up a pair...sliders or not.

[YellowDog]

I imported my bike and got a better spec at around a $5k saving. If you are importing genuine stuff that has a significant saving, then it is a great idea. If however you are only saving a couple of bucks, it aint worth the hassle and I would rather give the money to NZers.

Also importing foney crap, especially clothing, is not cheap. It is a waste of money.

[cs363]

Right...
www.lifestyle-imports.co.nz
Supporting NZ dealers...I emailed enquiring about the availability of their leather pants with sliders...
Three days later and no replies.
If this was a yank site, then the next day (given the time diff.) I would have had a reply.
I`m just gonna go to Jeffery Chandell leathers 10 mins south of here and get him to make me up a pair...sliders or not.


Apples with apples.... that's not a dealer, just someone who built/paid for a website and sells a bit of stuff from home - to quote their website "As this is a home based business, visiting the showroom is by appointment only. To make a time and for directions, please contact Rick on 027 278 7813"
To me it just looks like some private guy that is importing some crappy Pakistani boots etc....Don't think I'd be shopping there...

[silver55]

Maybe not quite the same sort of protective gear, but,.......Krank Dirt Wear for mountain bikers is a home based business (in Hanmer Springs) and operates in a very similar way to "lifestyle-imports". Their gear is all first rate, and I've made a home visit by appointment. Good stuff and nice people.
Just because someone is running a business from home doesn't mean it's "crappy".

[ynot slow]

I have boots from Lifestyle Imports,very reasonable price and comfort fit.I grabbed these as after purchasing my jacket,pants,gloves and helmet,I was running short of $$$,keep feet warm and dry(although never been in torrential rain)during wet weather.They are cheap yes,but fit for me is great,comfy,and can't complain,mind you I don't profess to being heavy duty rough on my boots.For $150 can't go wrong,even if they did shit out after say 2 yrs,which they haven't.