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Don't get me wrong here as I am not defending the dealer or their pricing. I think if you look they do a bit more than just "change the oil", at least they did on mine. New plugs, checked all the fasteners, check and lube hinge points...even my highway pegs and a few other things, but then paid maintenance was part of the deal I made when I bought mine...at least through 30k in mileage.
Not sure where you went but the dealer I use has their service pricing clearly posted above the service desk, including what they charge for 1k, 5k, 10k, etc services. Definitely cheaper to get a service manual and do your own work...but if you had sticker shock over what you paid...you should have gone into it knowing what they were going to charge you.
While I don't disagree with your thinking their pricing is too much, giving someone a job to do that they expect payment for and not knowing what the price is going to be...well...who's fault is that?
It's a sad testimony when a grown man can't even change spark plugs, let alone oil!!
They charged you 3 hours of labor and then pay and reward the mechanic more the faster he can do the work. For those that think they are going through that whole list unless you are standing there watching them then it's not happening. Mine hasn't been in even for the 1k and won't be in unless it's warranty or computer related.
True this ! Mine goes to the same indy I've been going to for 30 some years.
Harley service IMO is way overpriced. Dealers pay their techs maybe 25/ hr. Then charge 110 per hour. My 1000 service was 300 bucks after shopping several harley dealers. DIY is best bet if you know how to do stuff. Harleys are expensive toys/vehicles.
$110 ? Adam Smith's stores are all up to $125 an hour. This includes Waco and the 2 he just bought in east TX.
I have 3 dealers within 35 miles. All 3 have different prices for their 1k service. Closest dealer, 385.00, second closest, 375.00 (owners in common). Furthest dealer is at 350.00.
I had 1k done at the dealer, doing it myself from there.
OP; Did the service rep discuss 1K associated costs when you arrived? If not, did you ask? Not taking sides here, but if you didn't know up-front charges...you can't claim dealer was at fault...IMO.
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