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Always told myself no more Samsons....

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Old Apr 28, 2016 | 10:19 PM
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Default Always told myself no more Samsons....

I had Samson Super Cholos on my 2003 Heritage Springer, and I really loved the look. When I parted ways with that bike, I figured if I did another build like it, I'd go with another set.

Around that time, Samson relocated to Sturgis, SD from California, and the 'growing pains' that came with the move began. Time and time again, we saw threads about dissatisfied customers and poor customer service.

Eventually I completed the 2006 Springer Classic build that is linked in my signature. I never ordered fishtails and told myself based off the experiences of others, I would save myself the headache.

So today, I went to my local dealer to grab a couple things for a different build, and they had three tables set up with discounted clearance parts.

And there they were....a set of Samson Cholos in the 39" length, with removable tips and baffles. They were priced well below $700 for the full set. The parts guys were cool with me opening up the package and inspecting everything. All looked well, so I figured this was my chance. These kinda deals rarely fall in my lap, so I'm pretty happy with the purchase.

The label on the box shows that they were manufactured in early 2013 and the pipes are still in the plastic wrapping - they weren't returned after someone else installed them.

 

Last edited by Redbeard719; Apr 28, 2016 at 10:25 PM.
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Old Apr 28, 2016 | 11:41 PM
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Pics of them installed? How do they sound? Oh, and I love springers
 
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Old Apr 28, 2016 | 11:51 PM
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Plenty guys running vance and hines true duals, freedom, bassani etc but secretly envy samsons.


 
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Old Apr 28, 2016 | 11:57 PM
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^^^That's a funny one right there!

Haven't gotten them installed yet...maybe this weekend. We got plenty of snowing coming through for the next few days, so hopefully I can get into the garage for a bit of wrench time.
 
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Old Apr 29, 2016 | 12:01 AM
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Originally Posted by Redbeard719
^^^That's a funny one right there!

Haven't gotten them installed yet...maybe this weekend. We got plenty of snowing coming through for the next few days, so hopefully I can get into the garage for a bit of wrench time.


Just trying to throw it out there. Let's face it, everyone (I think) like samsons but hate their customer service. So its not the pipes, its the people behind them.
 
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Old Apr 29, 2016 | 12:06 AM
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Originally Posted by kinect
Just trying to throw it out there. Let's face it, everyone (I think) like samsons but hate their customer service. So its not the pipes, its the people behind them.
I'd also add that people haven't been too pleased with the finish on the product lately too. That's why I was happy to see these manufactured in early 2013. I think that was right before things went far south.

But you're right - the people behind these pipes are the ones that need to change the recent issues.

Hopefully they get back on track again.
 
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Old Apr 29, 2016 | 06:22 AM
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They will look fantastic on your bike. I got mine early 2013 and they are flawless, I love them.
 
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Old Apr 29, 2016 | 07:58 AM
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Originally Posted by Redbeard719
I'd also add that people haven't been too pleased with the finish on the product lately too. That's why I was happy to see these manufactured in early 2013. I think that was right before things went far south.

But you're right - the people behind these pipes are the ones that need to change the recent issues.

Hopefully they get back on track again.
I stopped into the Samson plant in Sturgis in 2014. They told me that all the pipes are sent to Kansas City for chroming and they had some issues with the guys out there. They were planning on doing the chroming locally to save shipping times and to manage quality control. The facility is first class so they have the bones to make it a success. Just like any other business out there it's all about leadership and quality personnel.
 
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Old Apr 29, 2016 | 08:46 AM
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RB:

I got my Samson exhaust in 2012. Never had a single problem with them. I think 2013 was before the move too. They'll look great on your new project. All of your projects turn out great!

I love it when someone cool gets a great deal. Kind of like karma!

Ride safe!
 
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Old Apr 29, 2016 | 10:33 AM
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Originally Posted by SprungDave
RB:

I got my Samson exhaust in 2012. Never had a single problem with them. I think 2013 was before the move too. They'll look great on your new project. All of your projects turn out great!

I love it when someone cool gets a great deal. Kind of like karma!

Ride safe!
Thanks Dave -

It was one thing to find the Samsons. But it was like the stars lined up with they were 39" and removable tips and baffles. Not that I'll take the baffles out, but if I ever changed my mind, at least I have the option.

In retrospect, I'm glad I had La Briola change my jockey shift parts to clear the true duals, like I did on my 03 Heritage Springer. When I had the whole primary off to get the inner/outer housing powdercoated I rotated the inner shift lever back one tooth as well to clear on the downshifts.

This set should bolt on with very little effort...

And thank you for the kind words about my projects. It's nice to hear that others appreciate the end results too!
 
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