From: dc-cycles-digest-request@XXXXXX (The dc-cycles list administrator) To: dc-cycles@XXXXXX Subject: dc-cycles digest for 08/15/08 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ __ /-----\ __ 'dc-cycles' is an unmoderated email discussion list (__\/ _____ \/__) about motorcycling in the Washington D.C. area. =( \___/ )= \ ___ / An archive of the dc-cycles list is available at: | / _ \ | http://www.dc-cycles.org/ \ || || / \|| ||/ Subscribe/unsubscribe requests should be sent to: \| |/ dc-cycles-digest-request@XXXXXX |_| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Date: Thu, 14 Aug 2008 22:37:57 -0400 From: Bob Meyer To: dc-cycles@XXXXXX, you@XXXXXX Cc: smthng else Subject: Re: [dc-cycles] recommended Kawasaki service ---- smthng else wrote: > > In my opinion, it's pretty much a giant suckfest around here. I've > got to get a simple gasket replaced where the coolant goes into the > engine on my K... it would take anyone with a clue 10 seconds to look > at it and determine this. I'm currently waiting on Coleman to call me > back and find a service manager who will verify that they'll keep the > bike for four days before even looking at it for a warranty claim. > > If I had to get something fixed out of warranty, I'd use Fairfax > Cycles. They've gotten my business twice for routine stuff (tires and > such) and have good prices on parts and excellent service. They'll be > installing another set of tires for me on Thursday. > > > --Jonathan "smthng" Kalmes Coleman's is possibly the worst dealer I've ever dealt with, from Service through sales, and parts and acessories. I had my Honda ST1100 parked there one day, and a couple of dweebs from service were asking me what it was. OK, the ST1100 isn't real commonplace, but it's kind of scary the service techs don't know what bikes they're supposed to service. There are too many horror stories, over too many years, for a bike of mine to ever see the inside of their shop. Fairfax Cycles has done good work on tire changes for me, too. Don't know about anything else they do. MHK, like almost every other dealer, is probably way backed up in service right now. People are dragging out bikes than haven't been out of the garage for 10 or 20 years to try to save on gas, and the dealers are swamped with cruddy carbs, corroded fasteners, and bad rubber bits. -- Bob Meyer, #1157, Fairfax, Virginia '01 Candy Dark Red ST1100, "teSTarossa" Life is all about ass... You're either covering it, laughing it off, kicking it, kissing it, busting it, trying to get a piece of it, or behaving like one. _______________________________________________ dc-cycles mailing list dc-cycles@XXXXXX http://dc-cycles.org/mailman/cgi-bin/listinfo/dc-cycles _ _ _ _ .-.-.=\-. .-.-.=\-. .-.-.=\-. .-.-.=\-. (_)=='(_) (_)=='(_) (_)=='(_) (_)=='(_) X-Authority-Analysis: v=1.0 c=1 a=skCcmPAcSZ8A:10 a=853AuTicqzcA:10 a=Q0HC5qhXsNPqkaN77HQA:9 a=3zXABe5nNbfAdhaK7AkA:7 a=BAEk5llaSd-mdsHfOCo40odgArMA:4 a=4vB-4DCPJfMA:10 a=MSl-tDqOz04A:10 a=KUJAPYlYduUA:10 From: PenguinBiker@XXXXXX To: dc-cycles@XXXXXX (B-DC cycles) Date: Fri, 15 Aug 2008 04:21:50 +0000 X-Authenticated-Sender: UGVuZ3VpbkJpa2VyQGNvbWNhc3QubmV0 Subject: Re: [dc-cycles] recommended Kawasaki service -------------- Original message ---------------------- From: Bob Meyer > ---- smthng else wrote: > > > > I've > > got to get a simple gasket replaced where the coolant goes into the > > engine on my K... If it's that simple replace it yourself. Hell if it is a simple paper gasket you can make one yourself, that is what I would do. In other words screw the dealers. Why the F(*^% do we put up with this shit? I have ordered a part for my wife's car, a Suzuki by the way, and the same day ordered a part for my Honda ST1100. Car part? Here the very next day. If I had been there by 10am. it would have been there the same day. The bike? The usual two weeks for a service part that should have been in stock at the dealer to begin with. What the hell is the difference? Why do motorcyclists put up with shit that no car owner would tolerate? I really want to know. -- John W. _______________________________________________ dc-cycles mailing list dc-cycles@XXXXXX http://dc-cycles.org/mailman/cgi-bin/listinfo/dc-cycles _ _ _ _ .-.-.=\-. .-.-.=\-. .-.-.=\-. .-.-.=\-. (_)=='(_) (_)=='(_) (_)=='(_) (_)=='(_) Date: Fri, 15 Aug 2008 09:13:56 -0400 From: "Dr. Corona" To: "B-DC cycles" X-Content-Filtered-By: Mailman/MimeDel 2.1.9 Subject: Re: [dc-cycles] recommended Kawasaki service I've never been to Coleman's but I've been in this area all my life and ridden for a good chunk of my 40 years. In that time I really don't recall ANYONE ever ever having one single positive word about Coleman's. I know these are just my observations but how in the holy hell are they still in business? With their well established reputation I truly don't understand why anyone would set foot in the place. -Norris On Fri, Aug 15, 2008 at 12:21 AM, wrote: > > -------------- Original message ---------------------- > From: Bob Meyer > > > ---- smthng else wrote: > > > > > > I've > > > got to get a simple gasket replaced where the coolant goes into the > > > engine on my K... > > If it's that simple replace it yourself. Hell if it is a simple paper > gasket you can make one yourself, that is what I would do. > In other words screw the dealers. > > > Why the F(*^% do we put up with this shit? I have ordered a part for my > wife's car, a Suzuki by the way, and the same day ordered a part for my > Honda ST1100. > Car part? Here the very next day. If I had been there by 10am. it would > have been there the same day. > The bike? The usual two weeks for a service part that should have been in > stock at the dealer to begin with. > What the hell is the difference? Why do motorcyclists put up with shit that > no car owner would tolerate? > I really want to know. > -- > John W. > _______________________________________________ > dc-cycles mailing list > dc-cycles@XXXXXX > http://dc-cycles.org/mailman/cgi-bin/listinfo/dc-cycles > _______________________________________________ dc-cycles mailing list dc-cycles@XXXXXX http://dc-cycles.org/mailman/cgi-bin/listinfo/dc-cycles _ _ _ _ .-.-.=\-. .-.-.=\-. .-.-.=\-. .-.-.=\-. (_)=='(_) (_)=='(_) (_)=='(_) (_)=='(_) From: Julian Halton To: "'Dr. Corona'" , B-DC cycles Date: Fri, 15 Aug 2008 09:28:20 -0400 Accept-Language: en-US Content-Language: en-US acceptlanguage: en-US Subject: [dc-cycles] Colemans RE: recommended Kawasaki service I am not very adept at things mechanical and have no garage to work from. I get all my bike services and repairs done at Coleman. I can say they have been very, very good to me. I have had tires replaced on the spot, services done the same day. The work has been excellent. I deal with two specific individuals. Heath McKee (service) and Ed (foreman). Ed is a army veteran of many years, he has passion for what he does and goes above and beyond. With each service I get some printed notes about what he found, what he recommends. He is a master at what he does and I have never had a better level of service from any auto or moto shop anywhere. Before a 2000 mile ride, he took the time to set my bike up for me, he has safety wired my track bike and any time I get a bike back from him it feels like it did when I rode it out of the shop. I don't buy my bikes from Coleman's because I have found better prices elsewhere. They know this but I am straight with their sales department. I arrived once in a thunder storm and the power was out...The gents in the parts department managed to swap out a part I had received for me in the pitch black on the honor system. There are very few people I am comfortable letting work on my bike. Ed is the best mechanic I have ever worked with. He has recommended tools, care tips and his word is bond. Granted, everyone has different experiences. I have worked hard to create friendships with everyone there and usually send the service department pizza for lunch when major work is being done. When Ed retires, it will be a very, very sad day. I understand how precious bikes are and I am just going to say that building relationships at coleman's has paid off for me. -----Original Message----- From: dc-cycles-bounces@XXXXXX [mailto:dc-cycles-bounces@XXXXXX] On Behalf Of Dr. Corona To: B-DC cycles Subject: Re: [dc-cycles] recommended Kawasaki service I've never been to Coleman's but I've been in this area all my life and ridden for a good chunk of my 40 years. In that time I really don't recall ANYONE ever ever having one single positive word about Coleman's. I know these are just my observations but how in the holy hell are they still in business? With their well established reputation I truly don't understand why anyone would set foot in the place. -Norris On Fri, Aug 15, 2008 at 12:21 AM, wrote: > > -------------- Original message ---------------------- > From: Bob Meyer > > > ---- smthng else wrote: > > > > > > I've > > > got to get a simple gasket replaced where the coolant goes into > > > the engine on my K... > > If it's that simple replace it yourself. Hell if it is a simple paper > gasket you can make one yourself, that is what I would do. > In other words screw the dealers. > > > Why the F(*^% do we put up with this shit? I have ordered a part for > my wife's car, a Suzuki by the way, and the same day ordered a part > for my Honda ST1100. > Car part? Here the very next day. If I had been there by 10am. it > would have been there the same day. > The bike? The usual two weeks for a service part that should have been > in stock at the dealer to begin with. > What the hell is the difference? Why do motorcyclists put up with shit > that no car owner would tolerate? > I really want to know. > -- > John W. > _______________________________________________ > dc-cycles mailing list > dc-cycles@XXXXXX > http://dc-cycles.org/mailman/cgi-bin/listinfo/dc-cycles > _______________________________________________ dc-cycles mailing list dc-cycles@XXXXXX http://dc-cycles.org/mailman/cgi-bin/listinfo/dc-cycles _______________________________________________ dc-cycles mailing list dc-cycles@XXXXXX http://dc-cycles.org/mailman/cgi-bin/listinfo/dc-cycles _ _ _ _ .-.-.=\-. .-.-.=\-. .-.-.=\-. .-.-.=\-. (_)=='(_) (_)=='(_) (_)=='(_) (_)=='(_) Date: Fri, 15 Aug 2008 09:31:25 -0400 From: "Wayne Edelen" To: "B-DC cycles" Subject: Re: [dc-cycles] recommended Kawasaki service On Fri, Aug 15, 2008 at 12:21 AM, wrote: > > > Why the F(*^% do we put up with this shit? I have ordered a part for my wife's car, a Suzuki by the way, and the same day ordered a part for my Honda ST1100. > Car part? Here the very next day. If I had been there by 10am. it would have been there the same day. > The bike? The usual two weeks for a service part that should have been in stock at the dealer to begin with. > What the hell is the difference? Why do motorcyclists put up with shit that no car owner would tolerate? > I really want to know. The more popular a vehicle, the more parts will be stocked locally. Also, I don't know that bike dealers have the same extensive parts networks that auto dealers have at their disposal. Even as a consumer, I can locate a part for my car on my own using services like www.partsvoice.com . With some cars, you can still run into day or week delays on parts. It depends on a lot of factors - exclusivity, recently redesigned parts, parts most prone to failure, how long the model has been on the market, etc. -- Wayne _______________________________________________ dc-cycles mailing list dc-cycles@XXXXXX http://dc-cycles.org/mailman/cgi-bin/listinfo/dc-cycles _ _ _ _ .-.-.=\-. .-.-.=\-. .-.-.=\-. .-.-.=\-. (_)=='(_) (_)=='(_) (_)=='(_) (_)=='(_) Date: Fri, 15 Aug 2008 09:35:24 -0400 From: "Wayne Edelen" To: "B-DC cycles" Subject: [dc-cycles] 2007 Traffic deaths With the increase in interest in 2 wheelers for fuel economy purposes, I would expect the number of motorcycle fatalities to increase for 2008. -- Wayne ---------------- http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20080814/ap_on_go_ot/traffic_deaths By KEN THOMAS, Associated Press Writer Thu Aug 14, 11:26 AM ET WASHINGTON - Traffic deaths in the United States declined last year, reaching the lowest level in more than a decade. Some 41,059 people were killed in highway crashes, down by more than 1,000 from 2006. The fatality rate of 1.37 deaths for every 100 million miles traveled in 2007 was the lowest on record, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration said in its report Thursday. California had the largest decline, 266 fewer fatalities than the previous year. The largest percentage decreases were in South Dakota and Vermont. North Carolina's death toll increased the most in the nation, up 121 over the previous year. The District of Columbia and Alaska had the highest percentage increases. Motorcycle deaths increased for the 10th straight year. There were 5,154 motorcycle deaths last year, compared with 4,837 in 2006. _______________________________________________ dc-cycles mailing list dc-cycles@XXXXXX http://dc-cycles.org/mailman/cgi-bin/listinfo/dc-cycles _ _ _ _ .-.-.=\-. .-.-.=\-. .-.-.=\-. .-.-.=\-. (_)=='(_) (_)=='(_) (_)=='(_) (_)=='(_) Date: Fri, 15 Aug 2008 09:57:51 -0400 From: "Aki Damme" <01dyna@XXXXXX> To: "Dr. Corona" X-Content-Filtered-By: Mailman/MimeDel 2.1.9 Cc: B-DC cycles Subject: Re: [dc-cycles] recommended Kawasaki service I never went back to Colemans (in Falls Church), after they put in my fork seals upside down and I bottomed out a BLOCK from their store. When I went back FIVE MINUTES AFTER I LEFT, they accused ME of messing with the seals! It was only after I got Honda corporate involved that they agreed to tear the forks down and inspect..and even then they wanted to charge me for the labor! After sitting in their shop for THREE WEEKS. they FINALLY took the forks apart (after Honda literally had to agree to pay for the labor) and discovered that the seals were indeed upside down. Even then they still accused me of doing something with them. A friend of mines son bought a bike there a few years ago and the salesman *forged* the kids signature on another finance app and upped the interest rate to...get this....47%!!!! It took a lawyer and the threat of a lawsuit to get the bike returned and the contract voided. I imagine they have a "colorful" history with the BBB too. Screw Colemans, I would get a bike from them if they were giving them away for free. -aki On Fri, Aug 15, 2008 at 9:13 AM, Dr. Corona wrote: > I've never been to Coleman's but I've been in this area all my life and > ridden for a good chunk of my 40 years. In that time I really don't recall > ANYONE ever ever having one single positive word about Coleman's. > > I know these are just my observations but how in the holy hell are they > still in business? With their well established reputation I truly don't > understand why anyone would set foot in the place. > > -Norris > > On Fri, Aug 15, 2008 at 12:21 AM, wrote: > > > > > -------------- Original message ---------------------- > > From: Bob Meyer > > > > > ---- smthng else wrote: > > > > > > > > I've > > > > got to get a simple gasket replaced where the coolant goes into the > > > > engine on my K... > > > > If it's that simple replace it yourself. Hell if it is a simple paper > > gasket you can make one yourself, that is what I would do. > > In other words screw the dealers. > > > > > > Why the F(*^% do we put up with this shit? I have ordered a part for my > > wife's car, a Suzuki by the way, and the same day ordered a part for my > > Honda ST1100. > > Car part? Here the very next day. If I had been there by 10am. it would > > have been there the same day. > > The bike? The usual two weeks for a service part that should have been in > > stock at the dealer to begin with. > > What the hell is the difference? Why do motorcyclists put up with shit > that > > no car owner would tolerate? > > I really want to know. > > -- > > John W. > > _______________________________________________ > > dc-cycles mailing list > > dc-cycles@XXXXXX > > http://dc-cycles.org/mailman/cgi-bin/listinfo/dc-cycles > > > _______________________________________________ > dc-cycles mailing list > dc-cycles@XXXXXX > http://dc-cycles.org/mailman/cgi-bin/listinfo/dc-cycles > _______________________________________________ dc-cycles mailing list dc-cycles@XXXXXX http://dc-cycles.org/mailman/cgi-bin/listinfo/dc-cycles _ _ _ _ .-.-.=\-. .-.-.=\-. .-.-.=\-. .-.-.=\-. (_)=='(_) (_)=='(_) (_)=='(_) (_)=='(_) Date: Fri, 15 Aug 2008 10:15:24 -0400 From: "Dr. Corona" To: "Julian Halton" X-Content-Filtered-By: Mailman/MimeDel 2.1.9 Cc: B-DC cycles Subject: Re: [dc-cycles] Colemans RE: recommended Kawasaki service I'm glad to see someone has had good luck with them. Really seems to be the exception though. FYI-They have 2 issues listed with the BBB. 1 is unresolved. -Norris On Fri, Aug 15, 2008 at 9:28 AM, Julian Halton wrote: > > I am not very adept at things mechanical and have no garage to work from. > I get all my bike services and repairs done at Coleman. > I can say they have been very, very good to me. I have had tires replaced > on the spot, services done the same day. The work has been excellent. > I deal with two specific individuals. Heath McKee (service) and Ed > (foreman). Ed is a army veteran of many years, he has passion for what he > does and goes above and beyond. With each service I get some printed notes > about what he found, what he recommends. He is a master at what he does and > I have never had a better level of service from any auto or moto shop > anywhere. Before a 2000 mile ride, he took the time to set my bike up for > me, he has safety wired my track bike and any time I get a bike back from > him it feels like it did when I rode it out of the shop. > > I don't buy my bikes from Coleman's because I have found better prices > elsewhere. They know this but I am straight with their sales department. > I arrived once in a thunder storm and the power was out...The gents in the > parts department managed to swap out a part I had received for me in the > pitch black on the honor system. There are very few people I am comfortable > letting work on my bike. Ed is the best mechanic I have ever worked with. > He has recommended tools, care tips and his word is bond. > > Granted, everyone has different experiences. I have worked hard to create > friendships with everyone there and usually send the service department > pizza for lunch when major work is being done. When Ed retires, it will be a > very, very sad day. > > I understand how precious bikes are and I am just going to say that > building relationships at coleman's has paid off for me. > > > > > > > -----Original Message----- > From: dc-cycles-bounces@XXXXXX [mailto: > dc-cycles-bounces@XXXXXX] On Behalf Of Dr. Corona > Sent: Friday, August 15, 2008 9:14 AM > To: B-DC cycles > Subject: Re: [dc-cycles] recommended Kawasaki service > > I've never been to Coleman's but I've been in this area all my life and > ridden for a good chunk of my 40 years. In that time I really don't recall > ANYONE ever ever having one single positive word about Coleman's. > > I know these are just my observations but how in the holy hell are they > still in business? With their well established reputation I truly don't > understand why anyone would set foot in the place. > > -Norris > > On Fri, Aug 15, 2008 at 12:21 AM, wrote: > > > > > -------------- Original message ---------------------- > > From: Bob Meyer > > > > > ---- smthng else wrote: > > > > > > > > I've > > > > got to get a simple gasket replaced where the coolant goes into > > > > the engine on my K... > > > > If it's that simple replace it yourself. Hell if it is a simple paper > > gasket you can make one yourself, that is what I would do. > > In other words screw the dealers. > > > > > > Why the F(*^% do we put up with this shit? I have ordered a part for > > my wife's car, a Suzuki by the way, and the same day ordered a part > > for my Honda ST1100. > > Car part? Here the very next day. If I had been there by 10am. it > > would have been there the same day. > > The bike? The usual two weeks for a service part that should have been > > in stock at the dealer to begin with. > > What the hell is the difference? Why do motorcyclists put up with shit > > that no car owner would tolerate? > > I really want to know. > > -- > > John W. > > _______________________________________________ > > dc-cycles mailing list > > dc-cycles@XXXXXX > > http://dc-cycles.org/mailman/cgi-bin/listinfo/dc-cycles > > > _______________________________________________ > dc-cycles mailing list > dc-cycles@XXXXXX > http://dc-cycles.org/mailman/cgi-bin/listinfo/dc-cycles > _______________________________________________ dc-cycles mailing list dc-cycles@XXXXXX http://dc-cycles.org/mailman/cgi-bin/listinfo/dc-cycles _ _ _ _ .-.-.=\-. .-.-.=\-. .-.-.=\-. .-.-.=\-. (_)=='(_) (_)=='(_) (_)=='(_) (_)=='(_) Date: Fri, 15 Aug 2008 10:24:04 -0400 From: "Aki Damme" <01dyna@XXXXXX> To: "Julian Halton" X-Content-Filtered-By: Mailman/MimeDel 2.1.9 Cc: B-DC cycles Subject: Re: [dc-cycles] Colemans RE: recommended Kawasaki service It's a sad day when you have to (a) rely on specific individuals within the maintenance department to do good work and (b) ply them with pizza to ensure that happens. ;-) -aki On Fri, Aug 15, 2008 at 9:28 AM, Julian Halton wrote: > > I am not very adept at things mechanical and have no garage to work from. > I get all my bike services and repairs done at Coleman. > I can say they have been very, very good to me. I have had tires replaced > on the spot, services done the same day. The work has been excellent. > I deal with two specific individuals. Heath McKee (service) and Ed > (foreman). Ed is a army veteran of many years, he has passion for what he > does and goes above and beyond. With each service I get some printed notes > about what he found, what he recommends. He is a master at what he does and > I have never had a better level of service from any auto or moto shop > anywhere. Before a 2000 mile ride, he took the time to set my bike up for > me, he has safety wired my track bike and any time I get a bike back from > him it feels like it did when I rode it out of the shop. > > I don't buy my bikes from Coleman's because I have found better prices > elsewhere. They know this but I am straight with their sales department. > I arrived once in a thunder storm and the power was out...The gents in the > parts department managed to swap out a part I had received for me in the > pitch black on the honor system. There are very few people I am comfortable > letting work on my bike. Ed is the best mechanic I have ever worked with. > He has recommended tools, care tips and his word is bond. > > Granted, everyone has different experiences. I have worked hard to create > friendships with everyone there and usually send the service department > pizza for lunch when major work is being done. When Ed retires, it will be a > very, very sad day. > > I understand how precious bikes are and I am just going to say that > building relationships at coleman's has paid off for me. > > > > > > > -----Original Message----- > From: dc-cycles-bounces@XXXXXX [mailto: > dc-cycles-bounces@XXXXXX] On Behalf Of Dr. Corona > Sent: Friday, August 15, 2008 9:14 AM > To: B-DC cycles > Subject: Re: [dc-cycles] recommended Kawasaki service > > I've never been to Coleman's but I've been in this area all my life and > ridden for a good chunk of my 40 years. In that time I really don't recall > ANYONE ever ever having one single positive word about Coleman's. > > I know these are just my observations but how in the holy hell are they > still in business? With their well established reputation I truly don't > understand why anyone would set foot in the place. > > -Norris > > On Fri, Aug 15, 2008 at 12:21 AM, wrote: > > > > > -------------- Original message ---------------------- > > From: Bob Meyer > > > > > ---- smthng else wrote: > > > > > > > > I've > > > > got to get a simple gasket replaced where the coolant goes into > > > > the engine on my K... > > > > If it's that simple replace it yourself. Hell if it is a simple paper > > gasket you can make one yourself, that is what I would do. > > In other words screw the dealers. > > > > > > Why the F(*^% do we put up with this shit? I have ordered a part for > > my wife's car, a Suzuki by the way, and the same day ordered a part > > for my Honda ST1100. > > Car part? Here the very next day. If I had been there by 10am. it > > would have been there the same day. > > The bike? The usual two weeks for a service part that should have been > > in stock at the dealer to begin with. > > What the hell is the difference? Why do motorcyclists put up with shit > > that no car owner would tolerate? > > I really want to know. > > -- > > John W. > > _______________________________________________ > > dc-cycles mailing list > > dc-cycles@XXXXXX > > http://dc-cycles.org/mailman/cgi-bin/listinfo/dc-cycles > > > _______________________________________________ > dc-cycles mailing list > dc-cycles@XXXXXX > http://dc-cycles.org/mailman/cgi-bin/listinfo/dc-cycles > _______________________________________________ > dc-cycles mailing list > dc-cycles@XXXXXX > http://dc-cycles.org/mailman/cgi-bin/listinfo/dc-cycles > _______________________________________________ dc-cycles mailing list dc-cycles@XXXXXX http://dc-cycles.org/mailman/cgi-bin/listinfo/dc-cycles _ _ _ _ .-.-.=\-. .-.-.=\-. .-.-.=\-. .-.-.=\-. (_)=='(_) (_)=='(_) (_)=='(_) (_)=='(_) Date: Fri, 15 Aug 2008 10:32:31 -0400 From: "Aki Damme" <01dyna@XXXXXX> To: "Wayne Edelen" X-Content-Filtered-By: Mailman/MimeDel 2.1.9 Cc: B-DC cycles Subject: Re: [dc-cycles] 2007 Traffic deaths What??? " WASHINGTON - Traffic deaths in the United States declined last year, reaching the lowest level in more than a decade." then... " Motorcycle deaths increased for the 10th straight year. There were 5,154 motorcycle deaths last year, compared with 4,837 in 2006." ??? Is this another example of Gobbmint doublespeak? -aki On Fri, Aug 15, 2008 at 9:35 AM, Wayne Edelen wrote: > With the increase in interest in 2 wheelers for fuel economy purposes, > I would expect the number of motorcycle fatalities to increase for > 2008. > > -- Wayne > > ---------------- > http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20080814/ap_on_go_ot/traffic_deaths > > By KEN THOMAS, > Associated Press Writer Thu Aug 14, 11:26 AM ET > > WASHINGTON - Traffic deaths in the United States declined last year, > reaching the lowest level in more than a decade. > > Some 41,059 people were killed in highway crashes, down by more than > 1,000 from 2006. > > The fatality rate of 1.37 deaths for every 100 million miles traveled > in 2007 was the lowest on record, the National Highway Traffic Safety > Administration said in its report Thursday. > > California had the largest decline, 266 fewer fatalities than the > previous year. The largest percentage decreases were in South Dakota > and Vermont. > > North Carolina's death toll increased the most in the nation, up 121 > over the previous year. The District of Columbia and Alaska had the > highest percentage increases. > > Motorcycle deaths increased for the 10th straight year. There were > 5,154 motorcycle deaths last year, compared with 4,837 in 2006. > _______________________________________________ > dc-cycles mailing list > dc-cycles@XXXXXX > http://dc-cycles.org/mailman/cgi-bin/listinfo/dc-cycles > _______________________________________________ dc-cycles mailing list dc-cycles@XXXXXX http://dc-cycles.org/mailman/cgi-bin/listinfo/dc-cycles _ _ _ _ .-.-.=\-. .-.-.=\-. .-.-.=\-. .-.-.=\-. (_)=='(_) (_)=='(_) (_)=='(_) (_)=='(_) Date: Fri, 15 Aug 2008 10:37:01 -0400 From: "Thomas Jordan" Cc: dc-cycles@XXXXXX Subject: Re: [dc-cycles] recommended Kawasaki service If they're smart, that aren't a member of the BBB... Then there isn't a history, colorful or otherwise. On Fri, Aug 15, 2008 at 9:57 AM, Aki Damme <01dyna@XXXXXX> wrote: > > I imagine they have a "colorful" history with the BBB too. _______________________________________________ dc-cycles mailing list dc-cycles@XXXXXX http://dc-cycles.org/mailman/cgi-bin/listinfo/dc-cycles _ _ _ _ .-.-.=\-. .-.-.=\-. .-.-.=\-. .-.-.=\-. (_)=='(_) (_)=='(_) (_)=='(_) (_)=='(_) Date: Fri, 15 Aug 2008 10:37:33 -0400 From: "Rob Keiser" To: "B-DC cycles" X-Content-Filtered-By: Mailman/MimeDel 2.1.9 Subject: Re: [dc-cycles] 2007 Traffic deaths Traffic deaths vs. Motorcycle specific, I'm guessing. On 8/15/08, Aki Damme <01dyna@XXXXXX> wrote: > > What??? > > " WASHINGTON - Traffic deaths in the United States declined last year, > reaching the lowest level in more than a decade." > > then... > > " Motorcycle deaths increased for the 10th straight year. There were > 5,154 motorcycle deaths last year, compared with 4,837 in 2006." > > > ??? > > Is this another example of Gobbmint doublespeak? > > -aki > > > > On Fri, Aug 15, 2008 at 9:35 AM, Wayne Edelen < > happyscrappyheropup@XXXXXX > > wrote: > > > With the increase in interest in 2 wheelers for fuel economy purposes, > > I would expect the number of motorcycle fatalities to increase for > > 2008. > > > > -- Wayne > > > > ---------------- > > http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20080814/ap_on_go_ot/traffic_deaths > > > > By KEN THOMAS, > > Associated Press Writer Thu Aug 14, 11:26 AM ET > > > > WASHINGTON - Traffic deaths in the United States declined last year, > > reaching the lowest level in more than a decade. > > > > Some 41,059 people were killed in highway crashes, down by more than > > 1,000 from 2006. > > > > The fatality rate of 1.37 deaths for every 100 million miles traveled > > in 2007 was the lowest on record, the National Highway Traffic Safety > > Administration said in its report Thursday. > > > > California had the largest decline, 266 fewer fatalities than the > > previous year. The largest percentage decreases were in South Dakota > > and Vermont. > > > > North Carolina's death toll increased the most in the nation, up 121 > > over the previous year. The District of Columbia and Alaska had the > > highest percentage increases. > > > > Motorcycle deaths increased for the 10th straight year. There were > > 5,154 motorcycle deaths last year, compared with 4,837 in 2006. > > _______________________________________________ > > dc-cycles mailing list > > dc-cycles@XXXXXX > > http://dc-cycles.org/mailman/cgi-bin/listinfo/dc-cycles > > > _______________________________________________ > dc-cycles mailing list > dc-cycles@XXXXXX > http://dc-cycles.org/mailman/cgi-bin/listinfo/dc-cycles > _______________________________________________ dc-cycles mailing list dc-cycles@XXXXXX http://dc-cycles.org/mailman/cgi-bin/listinfo/dc-cycles _ _ _ _ .-.-.=\-. .-.-.=\-. .-.-.=\-. .-.-.=\-. (_)=='(_) (_)=='(_) (_)=='(_) (_)=='(_) Date: Fri, 15 Aug 2008 10:38:27 -0400 From: "Paul Wilson" To: PenguinBiker@XXXXXX Cc: B-DC cycles Subject: Re: [dc-cycles] recommended Kawasaki service As long as bikes are toys and not transportation, it not going to change. A long, slow and perilous parts supply chain is what puts me off from even considering purchasing the more exotic marques like Aprilia, KTM or Moto Guzzi. Most Honda parts are a day or two away--but you may have to pay for expedited shipping. That said, I had no problem getting tires changed while-you-wait at dealerships in Ohio and Vermont. The Honda has been stone-cold reliable and hasn't needed anything I couldn't handle myself. Knock on wood. On Fri, Aug 15, 2008 at 12:21 AM, wrote: > > -------------- Original message ---------------------- > From: Bob Meyer > >> ---- smthng else wrote: >> > >> > I've >> > got to get a simple gasket replaced where the coolant goes into the >> > engine on my K... > > If it's that simple replace it yourself. Hell if it is a simple paper gasket you can make one yourself, that is what I would do. > In other words screw the dealers. > > > Why the F(*^% do we put up with this shit? I have ordered a part for my wife's car, a Suzuki by the way, and the same day ordered a part for my Honda ST1100. > Car part? Here the very next day. If I had been there by 10am. it would have been there the same day. > The bike? The usual two weeks for a service part that should have been in stock at the dealer to begin with. > What the hell is the difference? Why do motorcyclists put up with shit that no car owner would tolerate? > I really want to know. > -- > John W. > _______________________________________________ > dc-cycles mailing list > dc-cycles@XXXXXX > http://dc-cycles.org/mailman/cgi-bin/listinfo/dc-cycles > _______________________________________________ dc-cycles mailing list dc-cycles@XXXXXX http://dc-cycles.org/mailman/cgi-bin/listinfo/dc-cycles _ _ _ _ .-.-.=\-. .-.-.=\-. .-.-.=\-. .-.-.=\-. (_)=='(_) (_)=='(_) (_)=='(_) (_)=='(_) Date: Fri, 15 Aug 2008 10:48:48 -0400 From: "Matthew Bafford" To: "Paul Wilson" X-Content-Filtered-By: Mailman/MimeDel 2.1.9 Cc: B-DC cycles , PenguinBiker@XXXXXX Subject: Re: [dc-cycles] recommended Kawasaki service On Fri, Aug 15, 2008 at 10:38 AM, Paul Wilson wrote: > As long as bikes are toys and not transportation, it not going to > change. A long, slow and perilous parts supply chain is what puts me > off from even considering purchasing the more exotic marques like > Aprilia, KTM or Moto Guzzi. Most Honda parts are a day or two > away--but you may have to pay for expedited shipping. I don't get the complaint, really. The supply chain for my Suzuki doesn't seem any worse than for my Subaru. Maybe I'm just used to smaller market vehicles, but I can get most parts I want either within a week if I want to order online (cheaper!) and within 1-3 days if I go into the dealership. Almost every part is sitting in a warehouse nearby and the dealer can get it for no real additional cost - it's just a matter of getting it added to the next delivery. Two weeks, for a non-obscure part, is absurd. Some parts are definitely in lower supply, though, just due to the probability of them being needed being lower. Nobody stocks items they don't think they will sell, so it's to be expected. --Matthew _______________________________________________ dc-cycles mailing list dc-cycles@XXXXXX http://dc-cycles.org/mailman/cgi-bin/listinfo/dc-cycles _ _ _ _ .-.-.=\-. .-.-.=\-. .-.-.=\-. .-.-.=\-. (_)=='(_) (_)=='(_) (_)=='(_) (_)=='(_) Date: Fri, 15 Aug 2008 11:15:24 -0400 From: "Paul Wilson" To: "Matthew Bafford" Cc: B-DC cycles , PenguinBiker@XXXXXX Subject: Re: [dc-cycles] recommended Kawasaki service Accounting and tax rules also stack the deck against keeping parts--even commonly-used ones--on hand at dealerships. It also helps to know how the OEM parts system works. When Honda produced the 94-97 VFR, for example, they ordered XXXX extra units of replacement parts from their suppliers. These sit on someone's books (some percentage of them were shipped Honda of America's warehouse) until they are used up. And when they're gone, they're gone. On Fri, Aug 15, 2008 at 10:48 AM, Matthew Bafford wrote: > On Fri, Aug 15, 2008 at 10:38 AM, Paul Wilson wrote: >> >> As long as bikes are toys and not transportation, it not going to >> change. A long, slow and perilous parts supply chain is what puts me >> off from even considering purchasing the more exotic marques like >> Aprilia, KTM or Moto Guzzi. Most Honda parts are a day or two >> away--but you may have to pay for expedited shipping. > > I don't get the complaint, really. The supply chain for my Suzuki doesn't > seem any worse than for my Subaru. Maybe I'm just used to smaller market > vehicles, but I can get most parts I want either within a week if I want to > order online (cheaper!) and within 1-3 days if I go into the dealership. > Almost every part is sitting in a warehouse nearby and the dealer can get it > for no real additional cost - it's just a matter of getting it added to the > next delivery. Two weeks, for a non-obscure part, is absurd. > > Some parts are definitely in lower supply, though, just due to the > probability of them being needed being lower. Nobody stocks items they > don't think they will sell, so it's to be expected. > > --Matthew > > _______________________________________________ dc-cycles mailing list dc-cycles@XXXXXX http://dc-cycles.org/mailman/cgi-bin/listinfo/dc-cycles _ _ _ _ .-.-.=\-. .-.-.=\-. .-.-.=\-. .-.-.=\-. (_)=='(_) (_)=='(_) (_)=='(_) (_)=='(_) Date: Fri, 15 Aug 2008 11:18:29 -0400 From: "Michael Jordan" To: "DC Cycles" Subject: Re: [dc-cycles] Colemans RE: recommended Kawasaki service On Fri, Aug 15, 2008 at 10:24 AM, Aki Damme <01dyna@XXXXXX> wrote: > It's a sad day when you have to (a) rely on specific individuals within the > maintenance department to do good work With 25 years of managing data center environmentals for a major credit card company, it's ALWAYS the person doing the work. I have followed electricians and HVAC mechanics from company to company, bringing my business to that company with the understanding that I was hiring them to provide me with the services of my mechanic. Regarding the pizza - it's a nice touch and welcomed by the guys doing the work - I've been on both sides of that fence. You live and die by the personal relationships. -- Michael J. '86 SRX-6 '93 GSX1100G '03 DL1000 AMA IBA #3901 USAF (Ret) NRA etc. _______________________________________________ dc-cycles mailing list dc-cycles@XXXXXX http://dc-cycles.org/mailman/cgi-bin/listinfo/dc-cycles _ _ _ _ .-.-.=\-. .-.-.=\-. .-.-.=\-. .-.-.=\-. (_)=='(_) (_)=='(_) (_)=='(_) (_)=='(_) Date: Fri, 15 Aug 2008 15:19:11 +0000 From: Matthew Bafford To: Matthew Bafford , Paul Wilson Cc: B-DC cycles , PenguinBiker@XXXXXX Subject: Re: [dc-cycles] recommended Kawasaki service Does the spare parts law that car manufacturers have to follow apply to bikes as well? Basically as i understand it the car manufacturers have to also make a certain amount of spare parts for any car sold in the us. My understanding is probably faulty. -----Original Message----- From: Paul Wilson To: Matthew Bafford Cc: PenguinBiker@XXXXXX; B-DC cycles Subject: Re: [dc-cycles] recommended Kawasaki service Accounting and tax rules also stack the deck against keeping parts--even commonly-used ones--on hand at dealerships. It also helps to know how the OEM parts system works. When Honda produced the 94-97 VFR, for example, they ordered XXXX extra units of replacement parts from their suppliers. These sit on someone's books (some percentage of them were shipped Honda of America's warehouse) until they are used up. And when they're gone, they're gone. On Fri, Aug 15, 2008 at 10:48 AM, Matthew Bafford wrote: > On Fri, Aug 15, 2008 at 10:38 AM, Paul Wilson wrote: >> >> As long as bikes are toys and not transportation, it not going to >> change. A long, slow and perilous parts supply chain is what puts me >> off from even considering purchasing the more exotic marques like >> Aprilia, KTM or Moto Guzzi. Most Honda parts are a day or two >> away--but you may have to pay for expedited shipping. > > I don't get the complaint, really. The supply chain for my Suzuki doesn't > seem any worse than for my Subaru. Maybe I'm just used to smaller market > vehicles, but I can get most parts I want either within a week if I want to > order online (cheaper!) and within 1-3 days if I go into the dealership. > Almost every part is sitting in a warehouse nearby and the dealer can get it > for no real additional cost - it's just a matter of getting it added to the > next delivery. Two weeks, for a non-obscure part, is absurd. > > Some parts are definitely in lower supply, though, just due to the > probability of them being needed being lower. Nobody stocks items they > don't think they will sell, so it's to be expected. > > --Matthew > > _______________________________________________ dc-cycles mailing list dc-cycles@XXXXXX http://dc-cycles.org/mailman/cgi-bin/listinfo/dc-cycles _ _ _ _ .-.-.=\-. .-.-.=\-. .-.-.=\-. .-.-.=\-. (_)=='(_) (_)=='(_) (_)=='(_) (_)=='(_) Date: Fri, 15 Aug 2008 11:36:06 -0400 From: skip CC: B-DC cycles Subject: Re: [dc-cycles] recommended Kawasaki service Dr. Corona wrote: > I've never been to Coleman's but I've been in this area all my life and > ridden for a good chunk of my 40 years. In that time I really don't recall > ANYONE ever ever having one single positive word about Coleman's. > > I know these are just my observations but how in the holy hell are they > still in business? With their well established reputation I truly don't > understand why anyone would set foot in the place. > > -Norris Well, two weeks ago I needed a less-than-common size tire, stat. I called every shop within reasonable driving distance. they all had a Dunlop Qualifier, but those are sticky track tires, and the guy that needed it was looking for the Metzler he had on there currently, as it had lasted 5,000 miles. Coleman's had the Metzler, at a fair price. When I got there, they were having some sort of giveaway contest, and they had a couple Redskins cheerleaders. "What the hell," I thought, and entered. The drawing was held about 30 minutes after i got there. I had gotten the tire, and they were giving away chili-dogs, so I had a dog and waited. I won. Skybox seats to WWE. I sold them, so in effect, i got the tire for half price. :~) _______________________________________________ dc-cycles mailing list dc-cycles@XXXXXX http://dc-cycles.org/mailman/cgi-bin/listinfo/dc-cycles _ _ _ _ .-.-.=\-. .-.-.=\-. .-.-.=\-. .-.-.=\-. (_)=='(_) (_)=='(_) (_)=='(_) (_)=='(_) Date: Fri, 15 Aug 2008 11:48:10 -0400 From: "Aki Damme" <01dyna@XXXXXX> To: "Michael Jordan" X-Content-Filtered-By: Mailman/MimeDel 2.1.9 Cc: DC Cycles Subject: Re: [dc-cycles] Colemans RE: recommended Kawasaki service I don't disagree with the personal relationship aspect when it comes to my *business* relationships. However, as an infrequent customer of bike repair shops (as well as auto repair shops), it rivals extortion if I have to give them something merely for them to do their jobs...especially at the labor rates they charge. Tips, sure, feeding them? Uh, no. -aki On Fri, Aug 15, 2008 at 11:18 AM, Michael Jordan wrote: > On Fri, Aug 15, 2008 at 10:24 AM, Aki Damme <01dyna@XXXXXX> wrote: > > It's a sad day when you have to (a) rely on specific individuals within > the > > maintenance department to do good work > > With 25 years of managing data center environmentals for a major > credit card company, it's ALWAYS the person doing the work. I have > followed electricians and HVAC mechanics from company to company, > bringing my business to that company with the understanding that I was > hiring them to provide me with the services of my mechanic. > > Regarding the pizza - it's a nice touch and welcomed by the guys doing > the work - I've been on both sides of that fence. > > You live and die by the personal relationships. > > -- > Michael J. > '86 SRX-6 > '93 GSX1100G > '03 DL1000 > AMA > IBA #3901 > USAF (Ret) > NRA > etc. > _______________________________________________ > dc-cycles mailing list > dc-cycles@XXXXXX > http://dc-cycles.org/mailman/cgi-bin/listinfo/dc-cycles > _______________________________________________ dc-cycles mailing list dc-cycles@XXXXXX http://dc-cycles.org/mailman/cgi-bin/listinfo/dc-cycles _ _ _ _ .-.-.=\-. .-.-.=\-. .-.-.=\-. .-.-.=\-. (_)=='(_) (_)=='(_) (_)=='(_) (_)=='(_) Date: Fri, 15 Aug 2008 11:51:16 -0400 From: skip To: B-DC cycles Subject: Re: [dc-cycles] Colemans RE: recommended Kawasaki service Michael Jordan wrote: > On Fri, Aug 15, 2008 at 10:24 AM, Aki Damme <01dyna@XXXXXX> wrote: >> It's a sad day when you have to (a) rely on specific individuals within the >> maintenance department to do good work > > With 25 years of managing data center environmentals for a major > credit card company, it's ALWAYS the person doing the work. I have > followed electricians and HVAC mechanics from company to company, > bringing my business to that company with the understanding that I was > hiring them to provide me with the services of my mechanic. > > Regarding the pizza - it's a nice touch and welcomed by the guys doing > the work - I've been on both sides of that fence. > > You live and die by the personal relationships. Agreed. I turned wrenches years ago, and there was an older guy that would come in to get his oil changed every couple months. he would always ask for me, and would always tip me $5. I tried to refuse, but he said, "A laborer is worth more than his wages." I always took extra time and care on his car. on the other side, I've got a buddy that owns a shop that's doing pretty well. it's gone from just him and his business partner, to 3 hired techs and a service writer. I used his tire machine to put on the tire that I had picked up at Coleman's. I offered to pay him, but he refused. so I brought a 12 pack of beer by the other day. the guys in the shop were quite appreciative. so it cost me $10, and I'll bet that they remember me next time I go by. The guys doing the dirty work are often underpaid and overworked. if I can do something simple to make their lives better, I try to. --skip _______________________________________________ dc-cycles mailing list dc-cycles@XXXXXX http://dc-cycles.org/mailman/cgi-bin/listinfo/dc-cycles _ _ _ _ .-.-.=\-. .-.-.=\-. .-.-.=\-. .-.-.=\-. (_)=='(_) (_)=='(_) (_)=='(_) (_)=='(_) Date: Fri, 15 Aug 2008 12:00:00 -0400 From: "Paul Wilson" To: "Rob Keiser" Cc: B-DC cycles Subject: Re: [dc-cycles] 2007 Traffic deaths The powers-that-be have surely noticed that motorcycle fatalities are the fly in the ointment in the otherwise good news about falling highway fatalities. I suspect that will be even more pronounced this year, with overall vehicle-miles traveled falling due to 4-bucks-a-gallon prices. On Fri, Aug 15, 2008 at 10:37 AM, Rob Keiser wrote: > Traffic deaths vs. Motorcycle specific, I'm guessing. > > On 8/15/08, Aki Damme <01dyna@XXXXXX> wrote: >> >> What??? >> >> " WASHINGTON - Traffic deaths in the United States declined last year, >> reaching the lowest level in more than a decade." >> >> then... >> >> " Motorcycle deaths increased for the 10th straight year. There were >> 5,154 motorcycle deaths last year, compared with 4,837 in 2006." >> >> >> ??? >> >> Is this another example of Gobbmint doublespeak? >> >> -aki >> >> >> >> On Fri, Aug 15, 2008 at 9:35 AM, Wayne Edelen < >> happyscrappyheropup@XXXXXX >> > wrote: >> >> > With the increase in interest in 2 wheelers for fuel economy purposes, >> > I would expect the number of motorcycle fatalities to increase for >> > 2008. >> > >> > -- Wayne >> > >> > ---------------- >> > http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20080814/ap_on_go_ot/traffic_deaths >> > >> > By KEN THOMAS, >> > Associated Press Writer Thu Aug 14, 11:26 AM ET >> > >> > WASHINGTON - Traffic deaths in the United States declined last year, >> > reaching the lowest level in more than a decade. >> > >> > Some 41,059 people were killed in highway crashes, down by more than >> > 1,000 from 2006. >> > >> > The fatality rate of 1.37 deaths for every 100 million miles traveled >> > in 2007 was the lowest on record, the National Highway Traffic Safety >> > Administration said in its report Thursday. >> > >> > California had the largest decline, 266 fewer fatalities than the >> > previous year. The largest percentage decreases were in South Dakota >> > and Vermont. >> > >> > North Carolina's death toll increased the most in the nation, up 121 >> > over the previous year. The District of Columbia and Alaska had the >> > highest percentage increases. >> > >> > Motorcycle deaths increased for the 10th straight year. There were >> > 5,154 motorcycle deaths last year, compared with 4,837 in 2006. >> > _______________________________________________ >> > dc-cycles mailing list >> > dc-cycles@XXXXXX >> > http://dc-cycles.org/mailman/cgi-bin/listinfo/dc-cycles >> > >> _______________________________________________ >> dc-cycles mailing list >> dc-cycles@XXXXXX >> http://dc-cycles.org/mailman/cgi-bin/listinfo/dc-cycles >> > _______________________________________________ > dc-cycles mailing list > dc-cycles@XXXXXX > http://dc-cycles.org/mailman/cgi-bin/listinfo/dc-cycles > _______________________________________________ dc-cycles mailing list dc-cycles@XXXXXX http://dc-cycles.org/mailman/cgi-bin/listinfo/dc-cycles _ _ _ _ .-.-.=\-. .-.-.=\-. .-.-.=\-. .-.-.=\-. (_)=='(_) (_)=='(_) (_)=='(_) (_)=='(_) From: Doug Allis To: Aki Damme <01dyna@XXXXXX>, "Dr. Corona" Date: Fri, 15 Aug 2008 12:21:37 -0400 X-Content-Filtered-By: Mailman/MimeDel 2.1.9 Cc: B-DC cycles Subject: [dc-cycles] Colemans Regarding Colemans: I happen to have had considerable experience with the sales clowns. I've bought four used bikes from Coleman's in Falls Church and Woodbridge. 1. 1988 Kawasaki 250 Eliminator (old Woodbridge Store when they were down off Route 1) 2. 1985 Honda Nighthawk in 1996 (a disaster, but not their fault) (from newly opened Telegraph Road Woodbridge Store) 3. 2001 Kawasaki Concours (Falls Church store) 4. 2006 Yamaha FJR 1300 (Falls Church store) They sell lots of bikes, their sales floors may be the largest in the DC area, and they often have a bike you want. BUT: - They will always get as much $$$$$ from you as possible. Unlike most motorcycle dealers the Colemans sales floor seems to operate much the same as many car dealers. Only worse: there are no "factory stickers" on any of the bikes; the prices on the used bikes are usually way above blue book; and, Colemans practices "The Treatment" (see "What Car Dealers Don't Want You to Know"). Always go there knowing what the bike you want is really worth, make a reasonable offer in writing (the sales drone will write it up for you -- beware!). Don't try to negotiate on a trade-in (don't even ride it in) until after you've settled on the price for the bike you are buying. If you can't get a reasonable price out of them after you let them do their negotiation BS game with the "sales manager", WALK OUT but leave your phone # with the salesman. They may call back if your offer is reasonable and nobody stupid bought the bike at their high price. I got my Concourse and FJR from them this way. - They won't let you test ride a bike off their lot even if you've got a motorcycle license (hardly anyone does these days); - Their financing terms generally stink and are confusing; - They hate it when you tell them you are financing from a bank or credit union; - They try to sell you insurance, alarms, Lojack and an extended warrantee at inflated prices (all part of "The Treatment" that car dealers use). As for service: It's a mixed review at best. Like most service departments Colemans seems very unwilling to let you drop a bike off on an appointment basis. I find this to be a real pain in the a$$. I commute on my bike and can't have it in a repair shop for a week for just regular maintenance! They also seem to get parts deliveries only once a week. I've had better luck at other dealers getting parts shipped quickly (sometimes overnight). While most of the Coleman techs are just OK, Ed at Falls Church is great, and I did have great service from the Woodbridge store when my 1985 Nighthawk turned out to be a true lemon. However, their prices for parts and their hourly rates seem above average. I've had good luck with Cycle Sport on Route 1 in Alexandria and Motorcycle Factory in Woodbridge along Prince William Parkway. Both seem willing to take appointments. The senior service guy (Bob) at Cycle Sport is a great mechanic. Both he and Ed at Colemans used to work together at CycleSport Springfield before it closed and reopened at the the Route 1 Alexandria location. _________________________________________________________________ See what people are saying about Windows Live. Check out featured posts. http://www.windowslive.com/connect?ocid=TXT_TAGLM_WL_connect2_082008 _______________________________________________ dc-cycles mailing list dc-cycles@XXXXXX http://dc-cycles.org/mailman/cgi-bin/listinfo/dc-cycles _ _ _ _ .-.-.=\-. .-.-.=\-. .-.-.=\-. .-.-.=\-. (_)=='(_) (_)=='(_) (_)=='(_) (_)=='(_) Date: Fri, 15 Aug 2008 09:49:39 -0700 From: Robert To: "Doug Allis" Cc: B-DC cycles Subject: Re: [dc-cycles] Colemans Although I don't have anything to report on the service aspect, I do have to say that buying a bike at Bob's BMW in Maryland was a superbly smooth experience. The salesperson I dealt with assumed I would want to test-drive some bikes, asked me which ones, and had them set up for me. I had planned to look at a GS1200, took a test ride on that one (which took quite a while, since I got lost and had to call for directions back to the shop), and then I was convinced by my wife to test drive the K1200R - which changed my mind completely... :-) No hassle, no pressure, gave me a couple of options on discounts at time of sale, and a discount on gear as well. Got a call later from the manager to see how the bike was suiting me, and even a call when some recalls came out on my model. They have an extensive selection of used bikes as well as new, and I ended up financing through the dealer at a rate lower than my credit union could offer. The only downside was the distance from my home, but I'd rather drive/ride 50 miles to Bob's tha the three miles I lived from Coleman's in Falls Church... Robert On Fri, Aug 15, 2008 at 9:21 AM, Doug Allis wrote: > Regarding Colemans: > > I happen to have had considerable experience with the sales clowns. I've bought four used bikes from Coleman's in Falls Church and Woodbridge. > 1. 1988 Kawasaki 250 Eliminator (old Woodbridge Store when they were down off Route 1) > 2. 1985 Honda Nighthawk in 1996 (a disaster, but not their fault) (from newly opened Telegraph Road Woodbridge Store) > 3. 2001 Kawasaki Concours (Falls Church store) > 4. 2006 Yamaha FJR 1300 (Falls Church store) > They sell lots of bikes, their sales floors may be the largest in the DC area, and they often have a bike you want. > > BUT: > - They will always get as much $$$$$ from you as possible. Unlike most motorcycle dealers the Colemans sales floor seems to operate much the same as many car dealers. Only worse: there are no "factory stickers" on any of the bikes; the prices on the used bikes are usually way above blue book; and, Colemans practices "The Treatment" (see "What Car Dealers Don't Want You to Know"). Always go there knowing what the bike you want is really worth, make a reasonable offer in writing (the sales drone will write it up for you -- beware!). Don't try to negotiate on a trade-in (don't even ride it in) until after you've settled on the price for the bike you are buying. If you can't get a reasonable price out of them after you let them do their negotiation BS game with the "sales manager", WALK OUT but leave your phone # with the salesman. They may call back if your offer is reasonable and nobody stupid bought the bike at their high price. I got my Concourse and FJR from them this way. > - They won't let you test ride a bike off their lot even if you've got a motorcycle license (hardly anyone does these days); > - Their financing terms generally stink and are confusing; > - They hate it when you tell them you are financing from a bank or credit union; > - They try to sell you insurance, alarms, Lojack and an extended warrantee at inflated prices (all part of "The Treatment" that car dealers use). > > As for service: It's a mixed review at best. Like most service departments Colemans seems very unwilling to let you drop a bike off on an appointment basis. I find this to be a real pain in the a$$. I commute on my bike and can't have it in a repair shop for a week for just regular maintenance! They also seem to get parts deliveries only once a week. I've had better luck at other dealers getting parts shipped quickly (sometimes overnight). While most of the Coleman techs are just OK, Ed at Falls Church is great, and I did have great service from the Woodbridge store when my 1985 Nighthawk turned out to be a true lemon. However, their prices for parts and their hourly rates seem above average. > > I've had good luck with Cycle Sport on Route 1 in Alexandria and Motorcycle Factory in Woodbridge along Prince William Parkway. Both seem willing to take appointments. The senior service guy (Bob) at Cycle Sport is a great mechanic. Both he and Ed at Colemans used to work together at CycleSport Springfield before it closed and reopened at the the Route 1 Alexandria location. > _________________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________ dc-cycles mailing list dc-cycles@XXXXXX http://dc-cycles.org/mailman/cgi-bin/listinfo/dc-cycles _ _ _ _ .-.-.=\-. .-.-.=\-. .-.-.=\-. .-.-.=\-. (_)=='(_) (_)=='(_) (_)=='(_) (_)=='(_) Date: Fri, 15 Aug 2008 18:09:23 +0000 From: Matthew Bafford To: B-DC cycles Subject: [dc-cycles] Orgy of loud bikes I see a bunch of "us" are out raising motorcycle good will by grouping together and clogging the roads with their excessively loud freedom mobiles. Any idea why so many bikes are fucking up my commute on 15? _______________________________________________ dc-cycles mailing list dc-cycles@XXXXXX http://dc-cycles.org/mailman/cgi-bin/listinfo/dc-cycles _ _ _ _ .-.-.=\-. .-.-.=\-. .-.-.=\-. .-.-.=\-. (_)=='(_) (_)=='(_) (_)=='(_) (_)=='(_) X-Spam-Level: From: Dave Paper To: B-DC cycles Date: Fri, 15 Aug 2008 14:22:55 -0400 Subject: Re: [dc-cycles] Orgy of loud bikes Sept 11th ride. Rt 70 to 15S to Dulles Greenway to Dulles access road (I think) to 66 to the pentagon. (paraphrased from WTOP). It's nice to watch, it'll suck if you are trying to get somewhere. On Aug 15, 2008, at 2:09 PM, Matthew Bafford wrote: > I see a bunch of "us" are out raising motorcycle good will by > grouping together and clogging the roads with their excessively loud > freedom mobiles. Any idea why so many bikes are fucking up my > commute on 15? > -dave '96 vulcan that's finally getting a new oil filler cap. -- Dave Paper cerberus@XXXXXX "Hello, I must be going." --Groucho _______________________________________________ dc-cycles mailing list dc-cycles@XXXXXX http://dc-cycles.org/mailman/cgi-bin/listinfo/dc-cycles _ _ _ _ .-.-.=\-. .-.-.=\-. .-.-.=\-. .-.-.=\-. (_)=='(_) (_)=='(_) (_)=='(_) (_)=='(_) Date: Fri, 15 Aug 2008 18:30:45 +0000 From: Matthew Bafford To: Dave Paper Cc: B-DC cycles Subject: Re: [dc-cycles] Orgy of loud bikes I did enjoy seeing the wide variety of motorcycles the cops were on. The rest was all the same - loud and covered in chrome. I'm just glad i was headed north! -----Original Message----- From: Dave Paper To: B-DC cycles Subject: Re: [dc-cycles] Orgy of loud bikes Sept 11th ride. Rt 70 to 15S to Dulles Greenway to Dulles access road (I think) to 66 to the pentagon. (paraphrased from WTOP). It's nice to watch, it'll suck if you are trying to get somewhere. On Aug 15, 2008, at 2:09 PM, Matthew Bafford wrote: > I see a bunch of "us" are out raising motorcycle good will by > grouping together and clogging the roads with their excessively loud > freedom mobiles. Any idea why so many bikes are fucking up my > commute on 15? > -dave '96 vulcan that's finally getting a new oil filler cap. -- Dave Paper cerberus@XXXXXX "Hello, I must be going." --Groucho _______________________________________________ dc-cycles mailing list dc-cycles@XXXXXX http://dc-cycles.org/mailman/cgi-bin/listinfo/dc-cycles _______________________________________________ dc-cycles mailing list dc-cycles@XXXXXX http://dc-cycles.org/mailman/cgi-bin/listinfo/dc-cycles _ _ _ _ .-.-.=\-. .-.-.=\-. .-.-.=\-. .-.-.=\-. (_)=='(_) (_)=='(_) (_)=='(_) (_)=='(_) Date: Fri, 15 Aug 2008 14:49:12 -0400 From: Mike Troutman To: Dave Paper X-Enigmail-Version: 0.95.7 Cc: B-DC cycles Subject: Re: [dc-cycles] Orgy of loud bikes 9/11 on 8/15? Dave Paper wrote: > Sept 11th ride. Rt 70 to 15S to Dulles Greenway to Dulles access road > (I think) to 66 to the pentagon. (paraphrased from WTOP). > > It's nice to watch, it'll suck if you are trying to get somewhere. -- ___________________________________ Mike Troutman mike@XXXXXX http://www.troutman.org/ _______________________________________________ dc-cycles mailing list dc-cycles@XXXXXX http://dc-cycles.org/mailman/cgi-bin/listinfo/dc-cycles _ _ _ _ .-.-.=\-. .-.-.=\-. .-.-.=\-. .-.-.=\-. (_)=='(_) (_)=='(_) (_)=='(_) (_)=='(_) From: Rich Hall To: B-DC cycles Date: Fri, 15 Aug 2008 17:11:36 -0400 X-Content-Filtered-By: Mailman/MimeDel 2.1.9 Subject: Re: [dc-cycles] Colemans Not a factory sticker, but they have the price on that lil tag, backwards. = There's usually a letter in the middle of the #.> From: dhallis@XXXXXX= m> To: 01dyna@XXXXXX; drcorona@XXXXXX> Date: Fri, 15 Aug 2008 12:21:3= 7 -0400> CC: dc-cycles@XXXXXX> Subject: [dc-cycles] Colemans> there = are no "factory stickers" on any of the bikes; = _________________________________________________________________ Get thousands of games on your PC, your mobile phone, and the web with Wind= ows=AE. http://clk.atdmt.com/MRT/go/108588800/direct/01/ _______________________________________________ dc-cycles mailing list dc-cycles@XXXXXX http://dc-cycles.org/mailman/cgi-bin/listinfo/dc-cycles _ _ _ _ .-.-.=\-. .-.-.=\-. .-.-.=\-. .-.-.=\-. (_)=='(_) (_)=='(_) (_)=='(_) (_)=='(_) From: Rich Hall To: dc cycles Date: Fri, 15 Aug 2008 18:07:06 -0400 X-Content-Filtered-By: Mailman/MimeDel 2.1.9 Subject: [dc-cycles] The one time I don't wear pants I had a meeting yesterday morning. I didn't want to show up in full garb. I left my pants at home. I had on my boots, jacket, gloves, full face. Coming down 28 S towards 66. The 66 West exit was backed up. Mini van's in the right lane and center lane. I'm in the left lane. I see the right lane mini van is acting squeamish/squirreling. I could tell she wasn't comfortable. I think we're past the danger. At this point I've caught up to the vans. Then the van in the right lane moves over a foot or two, towards the center lane. The red mini van in the center lane, proceeds to move 3/4 into my lane. I try to brake, but she's coming to fast. I bounce off, as she hit my bar end, I'm leaning left, I lean to my right, trying to balance. Tire(s) hit the median. The curb is about 4" high w/ a 45 degree angle. I'm going down. Sliding, I think my head hasn't hit. Head hits, I tumble. Stop. See my bike in front of me. Flick off the mini van, as it drives off. Look back, to see if I'm going to get run over. First car is stopped. Guy gets out. Ask if I'm ok. Dude behind him says he's going to chase down the minivan. Cops show up from my left & right. Ask if I'm ok. I'm ok, but know my knee is definately torn up. I'm more pissed that the lady didn't stop than anything. Dude that went after the van came back. Couldn't find the van. I was surprised at that. Him and the other guy stuck around and gave reports though. I'm thankful for that. Took me into the ambulance, asked if I wanted to go to the hospital. I said no. The officer I was talking to mentioned he rode. I had pulled my key out, to stop the bike. Ask him to see if it'll start. I hear my SV rumble to life. I went down on the right side. My Yosh looks terrible. Still sounds great. Cops ask if I want it towed. Tell them I'm going to walk to the firetruck, about 50 yards away and back. If I'm fine, I'm riding home. I was only about 2 miles from my house, 35 mph would be the top speed limit. I walk back & forth, doesn't feel too bad. Officer says they'll block traffic for me, let me get on and out of the way. I got home, started to wash my knee, realized I had no idea what I was doing. Go to urgent care. Wait a couple of hours. Get my knee cleaned, x-rayed. Just road rash. Prescriptions for antibiotics & pain killers. The bike is scratched just about everywhere on it's right side. Tail, pipe, mid pipe, tank, bar end, mirror, brake lever, frame slider, etc. Being an '02 SVS, I'm thinking that's enough to total it. We'll see what the shop says. If it's totalled, I might get just the mechanics fixed. Might be time for something else. Be safe out there. Wear your gear. I should've put my leg armor on under my khakis or had my overpants on, like I do everyday, when I go directly to the office. _________________________________________________________________ Get ideas on sharing photos from people like you. Find new ways to share. http://www.windowslive.com/explore/photogallery/posts?ocid=TXT_TAGLM_WL_Photo_Gallery_082008 _______________________________________________ dc-cycles mailing list dc-cycles@XXXXXX http://dc-cycles.org/mailman/cgi-bin/listinfo/dc-cycles _ _ _ _ .-.-.=\-. .-.-.=\-. .-.-.=\-. .-.-.=\-. (_)=='(_) (_)=='(_) (_)=='(_) (_)=='(_) From: Rich Hall To: dc cycles Date: Fri, 15 Aug 2008 18:19:42 -0400 X-Content-Filtered-By: Mailman/MimeDel 2.1.9 Subject: [dc-cycles] The one time I don't wear pants - Gear Gear: Boots - Side B-Ones, scratched/scuffed did a great job. Gloves - A* SP1's (? Race model that sells for around $90) worked great, small tear at the bottom of both palms. Could feel in my palms that they had impact. Jacket - Protect, got at Loudoun back in '01 maybe. Never seen it else where. Leather, full perf. Looks like it got dirty. Held up incredibly. Big thanks to Lizzy, who sewed armor in it about 4 years ago. Finally got to use it. Helmet - HJC AC11, 3 small scratched areas, did it's thing. From where the scratches were, a 1/2 helmet actually would've protected me. I definately felt safer sliding w/ something between my face and the street though. Old Navy khakis - Ripped right through, I dont' recommend for motorcycle use. _________________________________________________________________ Talk to your Yahoo! Friends via Windows Live Messenger. Find out how. http://www.windowslive.com/explore/messenger?ocid=TXT_TAGLM_WL_messenger_yahoo_082008 _______________________________________________ dc-cycles mailing list dc-cycles@XXXXXX http://dc-cycles.org/mailman/cgi-bin/listinfo/dc-cycles _ _ _ _ .-.-.=\-. .-.-.=\-. .-.-.=\-. .-.-.=\-. (_)=='(_) (_)=='(_) (_)=='(_) (_)=='(_) X-Authority-Analysis: v=1.0 c=1 a=skCcmPAcSZ8A:10 a=853AuTicqzcA:10 a=C_O0VDadZj81QFW6IUcA:9 a=8UZbjfl5elHcGhgfagG2F_thx5AA:4 a=si9q_4b84H0A:10 a=MSl-tDqOz04A:10 a=c5zHXd76wwQA:10 From: PenguinBiker@XXXXXX To: dc-cycles@XXXXXX (B-DC cycles) Date: Fri, 15 Aug 2008 22:55:00 +0000 X-Authenticated-Sender: UGVuZ3VpbkJpa2VyQGNvbWNhc3QubmV0 Subject: Re: [dc-cycles] recommended Kawasaki service > On Fri, Aug 15, 2008 at 12:21 AM, wrote: > > > > > > Why the F(*^% do we put up with this shit? -------------- Original message ---------------------- From: "Wayne Edelen" > Also, I don't know that bike dealers have the same extensive parts > networks that auto dealers have at their disposal. The question is why the hell not? Honda makes cars and motorcycles yet I can get a part for a car a damn sight faster then I can for a motorcycle. Parts is parts car dealers do not keep anymore stuff in stock then bike shops do but when they need one it usually takes a day or less. Yes it can take more but that is the exception _not_ the rule. It should not take any longer to get a Honda bike part then a Honda car part. If the problem is separate warehouses then combine them, it's that simple. There is just no reason it should take a week to _every_ damn part for a motorcycle. _______________________________________________ dc-cycles mailing list dc-cycles@XXXXXX http://dc-cycles.org/mailman/cgi-bin/listinfo/dc-cycles