I bought a sport touring bike a wee while back. In fact, it was just a couple of weeks before a trip I had been planning for some time. Part of my planned route was going to be Tauranga.
Hitcher (he whose punctuation must be observed) had previously owned and written excellent reviews and updates for the same model bike. I began to bombard him with queries about the best way to get the best from the bike. A strong theme emerged, go to MacDonalds in Tuaranga.
After determining that a BigMac is the same everywhere and this was a different MacDonalds I got in touch by email. There were prompt replies to all of my queries and suggestions and it was clear they were interested in meeting my needs (with respect to a motorcycle saddle at least)
My route was a little under 3000kms over 6 days riding, half of which I would complete before reaching Tauranga. In other words, I had plenty of time to work out if the stock saddle would do. It wouldn't.
I pulled up to a modest premises off Tauranga's Cameron Road at the appointed time. As I climbed off the bike Mac was already walking towards me, talking, and explaining what it was my saddle needed doing. After a brief conversation about my journey up I was despatched to let Mac do his thing.
On a side note, Bay Riders is literally around the corner. Great shop to browse in with loads of cool bikes and gear. Even when I explained I was killing time while I waited on Mac they were still happy for me to test ride bikes or try on gear. As it happened I asked about an item I was after, they didnt have it but got it in on order by 8.30 the following morning. Happy days!
Over the course of the morning and several coffees I was able to try out the new saddle and then pick my choice of vinyl upholstery. They dont recommend leather, saying its not the best for our climate.
By midday we were all done. The bill was less than an off the shelf after market seat AND was customised to me. Mac's parting words were "if you like it tell others, if you don't, tell me"
Allowing for the fact my ass had been half eaten by the previous few days riding the next 1500kms were a dream. Seat time before needing a break doubled. The new vinyl was grippier, it stopped sliding without completely stopping me from moving on the saddle.
I have had a couple more weeks of my normal riding since then. Commute from Kapiti to Wellington and weekend blatts. Am really pleased and impressed with the job Mac has done. Would recommend him and his work. If you are seriously looking at an aftermarket seat, you should drop Mac a line. Prices are NOT cheap but are very competitive when you remember this is a custom job. Compared to what we spend on other parts of the bike, its not mega bucks.
So thank you to Hitcher for this (and many other) recommendation and thank you Mac for a top job.
http://www.trimit.co.nz/
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