Good reason to use the dealership for service
Ultimate HDF Member
Joined: Aug 2010
Posts: 5,014
Likes: 739
From: Northern California
With everything said here I think Harley better be doing more to figure out how to provide a more consistent experience and at a competitive price point. Certainly the automotive industry learned that lesson by taking customers for granted. I wonder if we are more dedicated to Harley than Harley is dedicated to us?
Outstanding HDF Member
Joined: Nov 2008
Posts: 2,246
Likes: 19
From: Cypress, TX
I just can't afford $1050 for 3 services (oil changes)a year even if they are good. I'll take it there If it's something I cant figure out.
Last edited by rg_dave; Dec 6, 2012 at 01:00 PM.
Road Master
Joined: Mar 2012
Posts: 909
Likes: 0
From: Florida
In conclusion, the Hd dealers probably can't hire great techs because of the low pay and lack of benefits. At least That's how I see it....
I suspect it's a "catch 22" situation that they have all gotten themsleves into.
Road Warrior
Joined: Oct 2008
Posts: 1,832
Likes: 37
From: Rockland County, NY
My experience has been all good. Bergen County HD does its best to conform to the corporate "suggestions" that all mechanics and writers are trained to the highest level. I can only assume they have to pay them what they're worth. Most seem happy to work there.
Harley rewards them for this so it clearly is an incentive to comply.
I've seen the writers watching training films whenever they are not busy.
I agree with JonW that the dealer deserves to make a profit and will usually do right by you, even if a mistake is made they will usually make it right.
I do many of my own services to save money and I enjoy some of it but I believe that having their hands on the bike from time to time gets you an ally when something questionable happens and a professional eye to notice it when it does.
I understand all those who do all of their own services. I don't consider my skills good enough to tackle everything.
I also feel bad for those who don't have a good dealer to go to when they need it. Car dealers have similar reputations. It's more rare than it should be to like and trust your dealer. I'm lucky to have one that's consistantly rated among the best in the nation by Harley corporate.
Many dealers will complain that Harley is spiteful and "punishes" them and forces them to do things that cost money.
The successful dealers say that Harley "rewards" them for doing things that are known to work in the best interest of the dealer, the customer, and the image that Harley wants to project.
I've seen first hand the complaining dealers go out and the others who get it succeed wildly.
Harley rewards them for this so it clearly is an incentive to comply.
I've seen the writers watching training films whenever they are not busy.
I agree with JonW that the dealer deserves to make a profit and will usually do right by you, even if a mistake is made they will usually make it right.
I do many of my own services to save money and I enjoy some of it but I believe that having their hands on the bike from time to time gets you an ally when something questionable happens and a professional eye to notice it when it does.
I understand all those who do all of their own services. I don't consider my skills good enough to tackle everything.
I also feel bad for those who don't have a good dealer to go to when they need it. Car dealers have similar reputations. It's more rare than it should be to like and trust your dealer. I'm lucky to have one that's consistantly rated among the best in the nation by Harley corporate.
Many dealers will complain that Harley is spiteful and "punishes" them and forces them to do things that cost money.
The successful dealers say that Harley "rewards" them for doing things that are known to work in the best interest of the dealer, the customer, and the image that Harley wants to project.
I've seen first hand the complaining dealers go out and the others who get it succeed wildly.
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