I find myself in the market for a motorcycle

I find myself in the market for a motorcycle and the search (i use the term loosely) has begun. As has become a thing in my life, researching (read dreaming) suitable options is 99% of my fun, let’s call it delaying gratification (or that other more appropriate term, foreplay). However, now that I am no longer a motorcycle dealer, that remaining 1% takes on a new meaning. This is personal, something I’ve chosen to live with for the foreseeable future, not the default option, available to me, through my supply chain, that frowned (again, a term used lightly) upon me experiencing the competition!

Which brings a new set of realisations, I only have eyes for two brands… or I’d rather not ride! Yip, I really said that out loud! I have tried to experience other brands, but only one representative made the time to engage…. But I digress.

Suddenly, price, condition, mileage, extras, depreciation/resale value and (importantly… its really sinking in now) backup service are a consideration, not something I have had to consider in my past.

Throughout my career as a motorcycle dealer i would become known as grumpy. Rightly and increasingly so. Every buyer and his brother would cosy up to me for a better deal. In laymans terms, DISCOUNT. A swearword in my life. The price you see is the price you pay, or it would have been a different price. And so it was I shied away from sales and started hating on customers (read people, they are all the same). As a coping mechanism, to support beer, I developed a loyalty program for: returning buyers, racers (who expect discount because they represent your business, but service their bikes elsewhere), competative/influential riders and the occasional knobs (simply not worth the effort of debate… or scientifically known as the route of least resistance.)

But here I am, wanting the best price. I’ve become that guy… I can feel my soul leaving my body.