What's it worth in Dollars
Extreme HDF Member
Joined: Apr 2006
Posts: 10,449
Likes: 46
From: Roswell, GA
The HOG chapter members aren't going to care where you bought the bike.
The service manager, service writer, techs won't care where you bought your bike; they'll be glad to have your service work in these tough times.
Good luck with your purchase.
The service manager, service writer, techs won't care where you bought your bike; they'll be glad to have your service work in these tough times.
Good luck with your purchase.
Elite HDF Member
Joined: Jan 2008
Posts: 4,351
Likes: 461
From: Illinois
I have used three different dealers in my area for service. I have only bought bikes from one of them. The other two take care of my service, including warranty issues as well or better than the dealer I bought from. I'd go with the best deal.
Dennis
Dennis
Club Member
Joined: Feb 2007
Posts: 5,335
Likes: 0
From: Tidewater
It is worth a bit more, to me IMO only. My expectation in return is a little more attention to details, a little easier scheduling things I want the dealer to do and that type of stuff. Motorcycling for us is a family thing. Wife and I both ride and my kids love going to HOG chapter meetings and events with me (us). And for the guy who said they're not your friends, most of the guys at the local dealer are my friends, and I have relationships with several of them outside of the shop.
Advanced
Joined: Feb 2010
Posts: 54
Likes: 0
About 9 years ago I was going to buy a new harley, the dealers I talked to would not sell me a bike because I did not have a trade-in. Those days are long gone, there are dealers with 09's still on the floor. I agree with trying to keep things local and building a "freindship" but when it comes to a "succsesful" dealership of any kind money talks and B.S. walks. Yeah they may throw you an extra smile or pat on the back but thats what "SALESMAN" do. If there is a dealer within 150 miles or so away that will knock off a grand then I would do one thing, tell the local dealer what the other dealer is giving you the bike for and if he will match it minus your extra travel exspense (gas,time) buy from him, if not,road trip!!!!!!!!!! Bottom line is it is bussiness.
Road Captain
Joined: Jun 2008
Posts: 613
Likes: 2
From: Tallmadge, Ohio
I doubt that your dealer is "loyal" to you or he would give you the same deal as down the road. Don't let it worry you. Take the best deal and enjoy the money. You can always have your preferred dealer do the upgrades and maintenance in the future. You have to be LOYAL TO YOURSELF first and that means saving money anyway you can.
Road Warrior
Joined: Oct 2007
Posts: 1,989
Likes: 11
From: Right Coast
What he said.
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Cruiser
Joined: Apr 2006
Posts: 127
Likes: 0
From: North Carolina
Ive owned 3 Harley's now, and I've always gone for price vs. local loyalty. How much do you plan on being in the dealer??? With places like Zanotti's and LakeShore HD online for parts, local good independent shops for all varieties of work, and MoCo dealers for warranty work, why would you worry about who runs/sponsors the HOG chapter? I see the dealer as just that, a BUSINESS. If they have the best prices, or can do something that I can't get some where else, or have something I need right then, then I'll stop by. I wouldnt pay ANYONE more of my money for future work or future loyalty.
Cruiser
Joined: Oct 2007
Posts: 136
Likes: 0
From: Bridgewater, MA
To answer your question ...$500 would be my cut off for the convenience of a nearby dealer. Although the close dealer has to be gouging if there is a $1000 difference on the same bike. In my area most dealers are getting msrp plus freight and set up. I paid msrp, no freight or set up with 1000 mile service included for no extra and that dealer was only about 4 miles from my house.