Service prices and parts, What's the dealio

[coz]

Warranty

You know Coz, that's exactly what I think, couldn't agree more. I have an exceptional bike mechanic close by and am hoping if I provide him with a shop manual, he'll agree to do some of the service.
I really feel that the dealership are preying on customers to boost profits, that's kinda standard here in sunny SoCal!
I did inquire about purchasing a warranty for the bike and the dealer did offer what sounded to me like good insurance for 3 years. What's your take on that?

cheers
roller

might be a good idea since you'll be saving a TON of money on maintenance. Did the bike come with any warranty when you bought?

 

[roller]

No, BRP warranty ended 9/14 but dealership said they could get me a 3 year with a company that's said to be very good. Just don't ask me their name

roller

 

[cmungen]

$120 per hour

A top rate master technician needs to make at least $65k + per year, more in high cost cities. this is about $32.50 per hour.
the general rule of thumb is that dealer must charge 3 times this amount to cover all cost,benefits,etc.
we're now at $100 + per hour. this is resonabe if you want your dealer to stay in business and not be crabby.
When you find a really topnotch tech (few andfar) between) make sure he's happy and that you gain his respect and pay what it costs.
he will apreciate you and make your life better.

carl

 

[CanAmChris]

A top rate master technician needs to make at least $65k + per year, more in high cost cities. this is about $32.50 per hour.
the general rule of thumb is that dealer must charge 3 times this amount to cover all cost,benefits,etc.
we're now at $100 + per hour. this is resonabe if you want your dealer to stay in business and not be crabby.
When you find a really topnotch tech (few andfar) between) make sure he's happy and that you gain his respect and pay what it costs.
he will apreciate you and make your life better.

carl

$65k + per year? Well... That is at the very, very high end. I am sure master mechanics for some German and Italian cars clear that and more, but even the top 10 percent of motorcycle mechanics in the US average $54,120:

http://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes493052.htm

That being said, cost of living and geographical location will make wages fluctuate immensely. My dealer in PA charges $85 hour and I know that they have some platinum certified Kawasaki mechanics.

 

[roller]

A top rate master technician needs to make at least $65k + per year, more in high cost cities. this is about $32.50 per hour.
the general rule of thumb is that dealer must charge 3 times this amount to cover all cost,benefits,etc.
we're now at $100 + per hour. this is resonabe if you want your dealer to stay in business and not be crabby.
When you find a really topnotch tech (few andfar) between) make sure he's happy and that you gain his respect and pay what it costs.
he will apreciate you and make your life better.

carl

So, you're saying they need to be billing at three times the mechanics hourly wage to cover all expenses and make a profit? Lets say for now, that is the formula they use...

Every dealership I've ever used for bikes and cars, has billed me for the hours set by the book, however, that dealership that just charged me for 3 hours, but only took an hour to do the job robbed me while I was wide awake and standing there next to him.

And that's why I like to find a great mechanic outside of a dealership to work on all our stuff. That usually takes a few different guys to deal with the cars, another 1 for the Spyder and so on and so on. I'm supporting local business, developing life long relationships (that adds a bit of trust to the equation) and best of all.... I'm not taking it in the ass :thumbup:

Just my 2cents on the matter
roller