Reputation has a serious effect on your success (e.g., 'badass party boy' may not be the most sound business decision)
Nov 1, 2006
By:
Rick Fairless
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This month I want to talk about the "business" part of the motorcycle business. Even though most of us are having a great time in this industry, there are always things we need to be aware of as business men and women. One thing I think we all need to focus on is building a positive image for ourselves.
For the best product mix and promotions, you must identify your predominant customer base
Nov 1, 2006
By:
Bob Kay
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Big Twin Dealer asked me if I could profile the typical V-twin motorcycle buyer. I said, "Sure, but are we talking about the custom buyer or the buyer who prefers one of the larger, more established OEMs? And which age group did you have in mind?" They said, "You tell us."
Today's techs must be as handy with a computer as they are with a wrench
Nov 1, 2006
By:
Dave Koshollek
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In the past five years the skills and knowledge necessary to be an A-level motorcycle technician have changed about as much as the electronics on today's motorcycles. That is to say — a lot. It may not be a bold, new world, but it's safe to say that unlike just five years ago, the motorcycle tech of 2007 won't get very far relying on mechanical aptitude as his only strong suit.
Inclusion in NADA is crucial for both custom bike manufacturers and dealers
Jun 1, 2006
By:
Tom Roderick
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Since 1933 the National Automobile Dealers Association has printed appraisal guides for new and used cars, trucks, vans, SUVs, boats and, most importantly, motorcycles. Banks and credit unions, state and national government agencies utilize the information for a variety of reasons. Inclusion is paramount to recognition in an industry flooded with unknown bike manufacturers.
S&S Cycle's new training center wants to produce well-trained techs, proficient service departments
Nov 1, 2005
By:
Dennis Johnson
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It's late August in S&S Cycle's new training center in La Crosse, WI, and the pristine service area still has that new-shop smell. The fresh digs are a long ways off from the engine company's mothership in Viola, where the scent trends toward countryside mixed with machine shop coolant.
A vendor called and tried to sell me a part the other day. When I said I could buy the same thing for a cheaper price he unhesitatingly explained why his product, while more expensive, was a better value.
