You hear a lot of talk these days about old-school this and old-school that, but the motorcycle industry recently lost one of its true old-school treasures, John Wyckoff.
Dealers are the manufacturer's and distributor's direct connection to consumers, so keep the lines open
Jun 1, 2007
By:
Bob Kay
|
One of the most exciting aspects of our industry is the constant influx of new and innovative products. The problem is, "What should I buy for my shop?"
Keep your books in the black by running a strong service department
Apr 1, 2007
By:
Bob Kay
|
Small service-and-parts shops are probably the most common type of V-twin shop. They realize the bottom-line boon of a fully oiled service department because they don't have profits from bike sales to rely on.
Show time often means a good time, but it's better to shop around with a plan—not a hangover
Feb 1, 2007
By:
Bob Kay
|
The 2007 motorcycle show season is upon us. At the trade show level the V-Twin Expo kicks off February and Dealer Expo ends the month. In March, Daytona Bike Week gets things rolling for the retail side, followed by a handful of events like Drag Specialties' open house.
For the best product mix and promotions, you must identify your predominant customer base
Nov 1, 2006
By:
Bob Kay
|
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."
If you're going to build a masterpiece, you have to appreciate what's been done in the past
Sep 1, 2006
By:
Bob Kay
|
What is vintage? Is it a style? Is it a characteristic? What does vintage have to do with motorcycles — even custom motorcycles?
It's not just about a bike — it's a way of life
Jun 1, 2006
By:
Bob Kay
|
I'm one of those guys who doesn't leave anything stock. Never have, never will. I have customized everything from my daughter's electric Barbie Corvette to my riding lawnmower, my old cars, my daily drivers and, of course, a few motorcycles.
For those who are properly motivated, the V-twin industry promises a bright and prosperous future
Nov 1, 2005
By:
Bob Kay
|
There are a lot more riders today. I have made this statement every year for the past 34 years, and few other industries, if any, can make a similar claim. Four decades of increasing customers is a long time.
Your love of two wheels can be profitably contagious
Jun 1, 2005
By:
Bob Kay
|
Don't misunderstand me when I say it takes more than numbers. Your business has to be efficient and profitable, but if you don't have passion, it will be much more difficult to read what the market is asking for.
