Harley Davidson Dealerships - Buying Experience

[@JimPark-63]

I bought mine at Gatto Harley-Davidson in Tarentum PA, near Pittsburgh. ZERO pressure by the salesman. I am now a part of the Gatto family. The sales manager spoke with my wife concerning our purchase. Total respect for her as well as me. I will have all of my service done there as well.

[@BoDean52]

That’s awesome and I have been there, seems like good people

[@JimPark-63]

@@BoDean52 let me know the next time You are in Pittsburgh. If you roller skate we fan tide then go to the rink that I own.

[@genekelley7579]

I’ve been to Gatto. Great Place😀👍💯

[@bobnelson2499]

Amen brother. I went to Timms Harley Davidson of Augusta when I bought my 2019 Soft Tail Slim and it was the best buying experience I have ever had. No pressure and I was instantly known by everyone there. 3 months later I walked in, was buying cleaner and such and mentioned to what were now my friends that I had seen the 2020 Electra Glide and liked it. They said "turn around". There was "Black Betty". Again, no pressure, done deal. Be well and safe you two and thanks for sharing.

[@GBeWinginIt]

Cool story. 👍🏾

[@edsbikerstuff]

2020 Electra Glide - needless to say, "great choice"

[@BoDean52]

Great story Bob and everyone should know Mr Nelson 👍

[@gadams51883]

As an Outside Salesman, I go over what is expected with Customer Service with my Inside Sales people weekly. No matter how good of a salesman I am, if the customer doesn't receive daily customer service the entire company suffers. What you say is so true - Customer Service matters! Like you, I have lived in several states and received good and bad customer service at HD dealers. The current dealer I work with (Doc's HD - Kirkwood, MO) is great. They always greet me by my name and the owner (Beth) is quick to give a hug and ask what she can do to make the visit better. Great follow up video on your purchase and congrats again on the new bike!!

[@BoDean52]

Thanks my friend and excited with the bike

[@michaelpulice6100]

I went to a stealership in Milwaukee to see about a trade for my 2019 street glide for a 21 street glide with 6500 miles they were asking 23,900 and low balled me at 12,000 and told him no then I asked him why did I pay 21,000 just four months ago and now its only worth 12,000 now. He said well I can get one at the auction for 12,000 I told him to go ahead then and left.

[@oldsoldier181]

This is EXACTLY how my local dealership, American HD in Leominster, MA is. Small, single owner, guy has been riding forever. Family owned, no pressure, and they will work with you, and talk you out of wasting money. Two examples: when I bought my '19 FLHT, they actually sent me to another dealer who had one, because they werent expecting any in stock (small dealership). They lost a sale, to make me happy (I do all my service there, so they are getting my money anyway). Next, when I was looking at tuning-their head mechanic talked me out of the SE tuner-he said, with what I wanted to do, go aftermarket. They werent going to sell me something that I wouldnt be happy with. Again, lost a sale, to keep a customer. There are 6 dealers within 50 miles of me. 5 of them are owned by one company-which is also in the used car business. Their turnover at those dealers is insane. Then, there is American-small, single owner, everyone there has been there for years, friendly, courteous, willing to work with the customer. Philly, the owner, has people come up from surrounding states-one guy from VA-just to buy from him and get service at the shop. THAT shows how impressive their customer service is!

[@BoDean52]

Stories like yours and the dealership I found makes it worth it. Hopefully we all keep sharing this so our fellow brothers and sisters can start at end at a great place. Thanks and ride safe

[@khalilismyname]

That's problem when sales people think it's the brand that sells itself and they don't need to make the effort. I have left a brand that I loved for many years, due to the sales and after sales handing. It's the people that make a change, and most of all it is the experience that comes along with it that leaves a memory.

[@BoDean52]

Totally agree, people matter

[@PinksAdventures]

2 things about any dealerships!..#1- if management is crap...product is crap....#2- if service is crap...product is crap! My dealership is awesome...very much like the dealer you purchased from...I did not feel like just another customer...they are friendly courteous and absolutely did not feel pressured dealing with them!...glad it all worked out for you!!..stay safe...ride safe!!😎👍🤙👍🤙🇨🇦

[@BoDean52]

Thank you sir and your words of wisdom are right on. Create a positive customer only first culture and you will win

[@boilermoose227]

I love your response to the other dealership. I'm gonna be picking up a RG in June. I am also in Michigan. I've been to my local dealership (Motown Harley Davidson) to check out a few bikes and I loved the atmosphere. I went to another dealership that was closer to me, and HATED it. I was there for 5-10 minutes and felt very uncomfortable there. As of right now Motown is gonna be the place I get the bike I want. But after watching this video, I just might have to make a trip to Lansing. Thank you for the video.

[@BoDean52]

My pleasure and I always like Motown, that’s in Taylor right? Good luck I’m picking up a road glide and to be a dealership matters. Ride safe and keep in touch fellow Michigander

[@kellyroberts560]

My brother bought a ultra limited from a dealer and was stuck in his own personal nightmare for a very long time…so when I searched out my deluxe I specifically searched for private sellers to avoid that kind of crap…I’m glad that I did cause I got all the upgrades that the dealers would have taken off to make it stock.

[@BoDean52]

Glad that worked out, many times the way to go

[@lifebetweenthelines8576]

that text had me rolling... i have done that to other dealerships before. buying my first HD has been a nightmare with nothing but issues from day one but i hope the next one will be better. thats a sweet bike and i hope its still making you smile.

[@BoDean52]

Thanks and still love it. Great to have a dealership I trust. Ride safe!

[@chuckhanson35]

My wife just traded her Scout for a Super Chief Limited at Sturgis Indian. They didn’t have what she wanted on hand and had to order it but the salesman let her test drive his personal bike so she could see if she wanted that size bike. That is what I consider good customer service!

[@BoDean52]

Exactly Chuck and that’s a cool story, when will the bike be in?

[@chuckhanson35]

@@BoDean52 2-3 weeks. Should be here early enough for her to take it on our long vacation ride July 2.

[@ssbolts88]

Glad you found a great dealership I've actually bought 4 Harleys from a local ish to me metric dealership. They won me as a return customer when I bought an atv from them a few years ago. They treated me like a long time friends. I went to look at one model and after seeing my trade in the salesman made a recommendation to me. He felt that what I was looking at would be a let down due to being alot less hp than my trade in. He wasn't pushy at all. But I ended up buying the same model I was lookin at except with the bigger engine. When it was time to replace my dyna I went to them. Granted all the bikes I have bought from them where used but thsts OK with me. Needless to say over the last 3 years I have bought 4 Harleys from them. And my wife has bought two from the. I love em. Thry never made me feel like a dollar sign. Always like a long time friend

[@BoDean52]

That’s really cool and your story to me is exactly what I’m talking about. I will absolutely be buying from the dealership with a great experience

[@robertolesen2349]

Lots of good points in your video. I have decribed my experiences with Harley dealerships in my book "Time Out - the motorcycle ride of a lifetime".

[@BoDean52]

Thanks Robert and congrats on the book

[@justinmackey2912]

Honestly your response was brutally honest. But needed to be done. As far as local dealers, I live 5 minutes from rubber city harley in Akron ohio, I currently dont own a harley but when I do buy one( within the next year or 2) I will be buying it from rubber city, the staff are nice, just chill and want to chat and talk bikes, no high pressure sales. I took my son once just to buy bike wash stuff and had to sit around for 10-15 minutes because a sales guy was playing ping pong with my kid. I get when you find a good dealer you want to stick with them!

[@BoDean52]

I totally agree Justin any smart dealers are focused on the customer and at the end of the day no if they treat you right you will buy a motorcycle and other stuff from them either that day or down the road. #GoBlue

[@paulrevere4326]

Asheville North Carolina Harley Davidson is an example of excellent customer service. We traded on the phone with general information and a video of my Harley starting up. I drove 6 hours to get there and traded. Drove by 8 other dealerships to do business with Asheville. Great dealership!!!!!

[@BoDean52]

Totally get doing that and thanks for sharing the name, help each other

[@LuckyDogGaming]

Subbed. I bought my V7 from Detroit Iron Cycle in White Lake Michigan, Allison was my sales person and Steve is the owner, amazing dealer. I recently stopped in a Harley dealer near my house and it wasn’t a great experience.

[@BoDean52]

Welcome to the crazy 😂. Finding a great dealership isn’t always easy, but totally worth it. Capital Harley is my go to place for sure. Ride safe and happy holidays.

[@BikerJim74]

I bought my bike from the same dealer you bought Big Red/Duchess. I really enjoyed the experience. Good people there.

[@BoDean52]

Totally agree Jim, like them

[@cabby316]

Barnes HD here in Kamloops have the best staff around. I've gotten 4 bikes from them and it seemed to get easier with each one. Very little hassle on the trade ins. We had 2 #'s in mind when we wanted to trade in my wife's sportster and they came in with an even higher #. Some of the extra parts that we had put on it we got to take off and resell after, like different seat, windshield, grips and even the sissy bar, no problem. They greet us all the time by our names and they love our kids, top notch dealership. 😎😎😎

[@BoDean52]

Thats awesome and glad I found that in Capital HD

[@dennismorrill5568]

Hey Guys had the same Good experience at Mount poncno Harley Davidson in pa the dealership was Beautiful the Staff the best its nice to know there are other dealers that put their customers first ty for your input.

[@BoDean52]

That's great and I used to ride up that way but never went to that dealership. Hear good things from others too!

[@MinnowMoto]

I do not think great service is limited to small dealerships, its just easier to spot. That 1st dealership had opportunities to show you they cared about your business, but just didn't. Glad it worked out for you and kudos to Capital HD for providing such a good experience.

[@BoDean52]

Agree and thanks Minnow

[@davechurchill416]

Sounds like we're we just brought three new bike. St.Croix Harley Davidson NEW RICHMOND WISCONSIN great people to work with and very enjoyable.

[@BoDean52]

Gets to hear about these places, let’s all buy from good people

[@gmac2555]

I recently bought a new bike. A dealership that I had bought two bikes from offered me an insulting trade in vale and a 13.5% loan, telling me that was the going rate. I wont name names, but come on... I went to Ray C's in Lapeer and they were great to work with. They gave me a very fair trade in offer, over $1500 of add on's at no charge, and a CVO at MSRP. On top of that, they were in the middle of a COVID shutdown and we did everything on a fist bump. They did my upgrades before we even singed anything. On top of that, the offer on my other bike was made off the VIN and photos. I had worked with them before on performance upgrades and they did a good job there too. I highly recommend Ray C's Harley!

[@BoDean52]

Thanks so much for sharing that and I was hoping a lot of people would leave names of really good dealerships. Nice that we both have our home dealerships that we trust now

[@dougm5231]

Following up on dealerships.. My 1st HD was from a dealer in the Hampton Roads Area of VA and the 2nd one down here in Charleston. The dealer in VA worked with me in setting up the bike to what I wanted.. Commonly known as Fit Specialists.. the one down here sales and it's up to you to figure out what you want after the sale. The dealer in VA if you wanted add-ons they would say how you want to pay for them, either add to the loan or cash. Down here they didn't offering anything except the maintenance/warrant stuff.. for the HOG Chapter stuff.. It's night in day.. The dealer in VA set up everything with the national and local chapters and I was added to the local HOG chapters email list to receive announcements for upcoming events (numerous events). The one down here never heard from them and I even asked when I bought the bike about a local chapter. I don't think they've even had a group ride this year. The only thing the owner down here cares about is his spring and fall bike rallies in Myrtle Beach..

[@BoDean52]

Good points and same deal here in all the HOG connections, asked for my current number so they could assure I get extended.

[@TobyNorthEN]

THAT is a dealership that WANTS your business! Great stuff!!!! Mrs. Northen and I have been treated great by Bluegrass Harley-Davidson in Louisville. I would recommend them to ANYONE! Hell, Mr McStache was passing through on his way home from a road trip and needed some assistance. The parts manager (Andy) stopped what he was doing, went out to McStache's bike, and helped him out completely! Again - they WANT the business!

[@BoDean52]

Thanks for sharing the name of the dealership I think we need to do more of that and sounds like we both have winners

[@benallen9987]

We had a great Harley dealer here in Aberdeen SD called Stutsman changed to Hub City. I never had a chance to buy a bike from them but maintenance and our HOG chapter lead to me knowing them all by first name and they knowing me by first name. Great group of people but they were unfortunately given the axe last year with the mass closure. Now I gotta try to find a new dealership even though the closest is 100 miles away.

[@BoDean52]

That stinks Ben and I know some of these dealerships are struggling. Good luck finding another good one!

[@waltertodd4281]

Texoma HD in Sherman TX is a great dealership to deal with also. The store manager is an outstanding guy to work with!

[@BoDean52]

Thanks for sharing that Walter, hoping to get good dealerships like Texoma HD out there

[@MKandKCCampbell]

Adamec Harley Davidson in Jacksonville FL is awesome. Bought a few bikes there. Multi generational dealership. Wouldn’t go anywhere else.

[@BoDean52]

Think I found one of those as well

[@biggbossman1130]

I'm in Jacksonville myself...I love going to Adamec on Bay Meadows, but I want to ride down to Seminole off I 4...curiosity

[@playbluesman1]

Great story. Bingo, that’s why we all need to patronize Mom and Pop businesses instead of the corporate stores. Once they are gone, they will not come back.

[@BoDean52]

Amen to that Doug!

[@swiftcaution5170]

Hey Mr Bo.. congratulations on your new scooter.. BIG RED,👍👍!! (sorry Mrs Bo..🍧💐) Sounds like a great experience, I'm with you, customer service is what makes it fosho.. makes the new ride all that much more enjoyable 🍻

[@BoDean52]

Thanks friend and you are so right, doesn’t seem that hard to me to build long-term customers

[@RollyRiderBiker]

Mr & Mrs BoDean you guys make such a beautiful duo, it's so pleasant listening to you I enjoy it a lot ! :-) Also, the topics are always great. I totally agree with you, the 150$ deal was an excellent one :-D Take good care yourselves, always be safe out there and I'm looking forward to your next video. God bless both of you. Rolly Rider from Sherbrooke QC Canada *hugs*

[@BoDean52]

Thank you so much for this message, we feel so fortunate to be able to do this and meet so many really cool people. Ride safe and see you on the next one

[@jt1960]

I have been to two dealerships here in the Northeast and unfortunately am still looking for one like the one you mention in your video. Hoping to find one soon as I am new to HD and based on what I have been through so far, am getting quite turned off to buying one. Thank you for sharing!

[@BoDean52]

Sorry to hear that and is exactly what the owner of this dealer said to me. I have found that normally they are pretty good, especially service but some stick out for sure like this one. Thanks and good luck!

[@RevSJSmith]

Capitol Harley is where I'm going for the New Rider Course on the 24th. I've only been in there a couple times. Once to sign up and then later to come back and pay for the course and buy a helmet and check out some gear. The staff is very helpful. Especially Debra at the main desk. Haven't decided yet what bike I'm going with yet though.

[@BoDean52]

They are good people Reverend

[@ironsteed5766]

I think my experience was pretty good when I purchased my RG. But a friend purchased his cvo from same dealer and hated the experience. He paid 45k (in the winter months) and they wouldn't throw in free storage for him. Left a bad taste and he never goes to them and now pays for storage and anything else from another dealer. Your right, dealers need to understand that good customer service will keep a constant revenue stream coming in from satisfied customers who will buy other stuff. Also, it's shocking that the other dealer had you waiting over an hour to potentially take your money. It is so irritating when business's make it hard to give them your money.. crazy!

[@BoDean52]

I think it must start from the top at any dealership and they got to have the customer first in their DNA or they will fail in my opinion

[@OnTwoandGo]

THAT right there makes all the difference!

[@BoDean52]

And they get all my future business, its not difficult right. Ride safe

[@motomortician2633]

I have purchased 2 bikes from the same dealer QueenCity Harley-Davidson in Fairfield, Ohio. I had very positive experiences both times and have been treated great every time I have walked in the door. One of the sales managers has called me by name every time I have stopped by and even offered to let me test ride his personal bike.

[@BoDean52]

Makes a difference doesn’t it!

[@motomortician2633]

@@BoDean52 yes it does. The service department has been good to me too.

[@andyvanveen8750]

Congrats on the new bike! I did almost the same thing as you back in February. My 2020 Ultra Limited had been in the shop 4 times over a 4 month period for an oil leak (warranty issue). Not only did the unnamed Phoenix area HD dealership not fix the issue, the service department kept delaying my follow up appointments saying they were just "too busy" to get my bike back in. And this was the dealership who I purchased the bike from. So with 9,800 miles on it, I took my 2020 Ultra to another Phoenix HD dealership and traded it for a 2021 Road Glide Limited. Couldn't be happier and won't be going back to the original dealer. Ride safe and look forward to your videos on the RG!!

[@BoDean52]

Thanks Andy and at the end of the day we’re both lucky to be riding the motorcycles that we have. What color did you get?

[@andyvanveen8750]

I have always been a “chrome guy” but I went vivid black with the blacked out engine and parts!

[@scottschaeffer8920]

Overall, as a 1st time Harley buyer, the day I bought my Street Glide was very fun! It was like “ welcome to the family”!

[@BoDean52]

Totally agree, welcome home! Proud to be a Harley man here!

[@stephenandrews5062]

I bought my 19 Ultra Limited in August 2019. I spoke with three dealerships close to me and told them exactly what I was looking for. One dealership told me there were no Ultra Limiteds in the region in the color I wanted and had better buy the only one they had in Vivid Black and one dealership never returned my call. Empire Harley Davidson’s sales manager Pete phoned me back and told me he found the exact bike I wanted. He managed to find that bike even though it was not in his current inventory. The sales process and “extras” talk were smooth and Stephanie, finance manager, was very much like your experience as options that made sense versus sales heavy. They introduced me around the dealership and I have been amazed at the service at every level. From Charlie and John at parts to Jon and Dee at service and storage, everyone at Empire Harley is really focused on making sure your customer experience is the very best it can be. If you live anywhere near Empire Harley Davidson in New Rochelle New York this is worth your trip if you’re even thinking about purchasing a bike.

[@BoDean52]

Thanks a ton for sharing that positive experience and naming the dealership. Not real difficult to figure out how to get a customer for life

[@motorcycleden]

Great story! I think more people have experienced the first dealership over the second. I feel it boils down to the type of people they hire. A lot of times the owners aren't involved in the everyday workings of the dealership and maybe they should be. From what I've seen, a lot of people that work at dealerships are not very friendly, why would you want someone like that working at your dealership? Sorry, I know you said to keep it positive. We've shared this before but on our trip to Colorado we had a light come on and stopped at a dealer. They immediately got us in and fixed the issue and had us on our way. I think that's one benefit of owning a Harley, there are a lot of dealerships and usually they will help you out when you're traveling.

[@BoDean52]

Agree on the network advantage and problems on road. Actually the parts folks good at the bad dealership but sales and managers are awful

[@motorcycleden]

@@BoDean52 we've seen that at some local dealerships. Parts excellent, other departments not so much.

[@Tryke_Ryder]

Bob, just admit that the name is Dutchess. You’ll not win that argument….and you are right, the finance monthly payment scam is a standard practice. I fell for it. But the Rawhide Harley-Davidson in Okathe KS has really taken care of me, and made me feel like a valued customer.

[@BoDean52]

It’s Duchess 🤷‍♂️

[@BigSmittyRiding]

Every dealership is different. You never know what you’re gonna get but some are much better than others. Good video!

[@BoDean52]

Thanks Smitty....

[@deraldgroth5719]

Great story! I love the look of the batwing fairing, but love the ride of a fixed fairing. I’ve bought from both good and bad dealerships - most recently a bad experience in which I will not set foot in that one ever again! You and the Mrs are great together - hope to see more video blogs with the two of you!

[@BoDean52]

Thanks and appreciate that, she is fun

[@lteggo4861]

Question, is your faring perfectly centered with your handle bars? My 2021 limited is a little off and it drives me crazy. By the way Gauntlet Gray/ Blacked out

[@BoDean52]

Love that color and then only other one I would have gotten. Mine seems good but I have a Buddy and that had same issue and had it fixed, painfully

[@FrankMI1991]

Great video and being a Michigan HD rider, I know exactly what dealer you’re talking about. Awesome to see you rolling through Stockbridge too! I’m from the Howell area, but have dealt with the amazing people at Zips 45 Parallel HD in Gaylord. Smaller dealership, amazing prices, and they treat you like family.

[@BoDean52]

Appreciate that and we are close for sure...I still have not ridden up that way and I love those type of dealerships!

[@uncleironhide165]

You were spot on with the sad truth that not all dealerships are the same! The Mrs and I had a wonderful experience at Adamec Harley Davidson St. Augustine FL. Another dealership which shall not be named in NJ..let’s just say if they had a better attitude they would probably sell more bikes..and that’s the sad truth! Great vid Bro! Our best to the Mrs! 🇺🇸🤘🏻🌴

[@BoDean52]

Thanks my friend and I need a St Augustine trip soon, love it down there. Happy I found a good dealership for sure!

[@Petesmotoadventure]

It is great that there are still smaller dealers out there. I did the same, I drove all the way to Miami to buy my Wing. Excellent people we agreed on a price over the phone. I do visit the local HD dealers occasionally “Honda guy”, the one down the street 👎🏻 The one where the World Record Poker Run is starting 👍🏻. They always talk bikes and are decent people. If I do and I’m not saying I will get a Pan American it will be from that dealer. Long Live Duchess. You pushed Mrs Bodean off a truck the least you can do is let her name the bike.

[@BoDean52]

Haha Duchess it is Pete. You have 5% Harley Blood inside you I know it

[@robertcorrigan3816]

HAPPY WIFE, HAPPY LIFE. DUCHESS!!!!!!!!

[@BoDean52]

You are right, but I always joke with my wife. Some woman came up with that saying.

[@robertcorrigan3816]

For sure a women must have, she

[@TennRides]

Yep, attitude in any business is a big thing for me. If I feel like they are trying to make me feel like they are doing ME a favor, I never go back. Customer satisfaction actually used to mean something in America. I thought for sure I was subbed to your channel, but the button was not showing it. Either way, I hit sub again. Y'all ride safe.

[@BoDean52]

Thanks and I definitely appreciate you watching the channel. The best part of doing this is to meet in here from people all over, I’m pretty lucky. Totally agree with you and if you focus on the customer first, you will be successful in my opinion. Ride safe

[@PMCraig]

AGREE COMPLETELY! I’m not in the market for a new ride but recently I needed some parts for my 07 Road King. I went to 2 different dealerships because neither dealership had all the parts I needed. One dealership parts person was rather gruff. I tried to make a bit of pleasant small talk and he grunted and basically ignored me. The other dealership was totally different. The parts people were very pleasant and one guy related his experience installing the parts I was buying (caliper rebuild kits) giving me tips which were helpful. We even had a few laughs as he said he needed to rebuild his calipers for the same reason as me, not changing brake fluid for 14 years! One guess as to where I’ll be getting my parts next time! BTW: The friendly dealer was a smaller place and was pretty busy on a weekday. The unfriendly dealer had a HUGE building and it was not busy at all. They obviously don’t have a clue about customer service. I spent a lifetime as a medical imaging service engineer. Customer skills are just as important as technical ability. You can be the sharpest engineer there is, but if you piss off your customers you ain’t gonna last!

[@BoDean52]

Totally get that Craig and agree. I must say that the guys at the parts counter even in the bad dealership we’re good

[@millinutz]

I'm with you on this one... a good dealership can make or break your views in buying new, especially as a young or first time buyer. (which I am not). Where I go for my HD, and another place for my Suzuki for all things, problems and servicing, they are like chalk and cheese. The Suzuki dealer always being pally and really helpful, whereas the HD dealer seems to treat me as if I was just a number and he's in a hurry It's a pity, as I spend more money at HD than at Suzuki. These people earn their money with us bikers, so we really do deserve some respect, even more so if they wanna stay in business and even prevent us trying out another brand.

[@BoDean52]

They could drive people away for sure and that’s what the owner of this dealership was really saying about she hates to see a negative experience at another dealer.

[@johnhoffman3598]

Glad you had an assume experience nothing worse than buyers remorse.. I like the taller windshield, that was one of the things that has kept me from the Road glide. I deal with Williams in NJ I walk in everyone knows your name.

[@BoDean52]

That’s cool, I like going to dealerships like that

[@bobhartman2571]

Great experience at Patriot Harley Davidson in Fairfax, Va.

[@BoDean52]

Awesome to know, plenty of real good dealers out there

[@timrowell94]

I buy from Modesto Harley in California, very nice people and great service.

[@BoDean52]

That’s awesome and there are some great dealerships out there!

[@PSPTommyG]

One wins, one doesn't... Congrats on the new bike!

[@BoDean52]

I think win-win is the way to be, hope you and your bride are well and really love seeing your channel grow

[@PSPTommyG]

@@BoDean52 Thank-you for the kind words! Slow but sure ! LOL

[@BD_Rider]

Need more Dealerships like Capitol Harley-Davidson. 👍

[@BoDean52]

Amen to that my friend

[@19animal94]

Arsenal Harley Davidson Waterford great place and great people. I just got me a 2021 road glide special and love it. Congratulations on the new bike!!!

[@BoDean52]

Thanks Gary and I actually think I’ve heard their name before in a positive manner. I think we should all share the love for these good places, ride safe

[@genekelley7579]

Great Video😀👍 I’m glad you had a good experience. I think you experienced “both sides of the buying experience”👍 Nice job, taking the wife for a ride and letting her pick out some items at the dealership👍. Nice Bike!!! “Happy Wife, Happy Life” 😊 💯

[@BoDean52]

Thanks I really appreciate that and I joke with my wife that it must’ve been a woman that came up with that happy life happy wife saying 😂

[@genekelley7579]

@@BoDean52 I also took my wife shopping at the Dealer when I pick up my CVO Ultra Limited this Spring 😀👍💯.

[@Joseph-wh5of]

Nice story! It's always good to find a nice dealership. I'm saving up for a bare-bones basic Road Glide. I'm trying to save up at least $14,000 before stepping foot in a dealership.

[@BoDean52]

That's probably a real smart idea!. Thanks and ride safe

[@Donfleebie1]

South East Harley Davidson in Cleveland, OH used to be like that, I bought 4 Ultra’s from them, but everything seems different now, in a big corporate unpersonal way. All of the dealers around CLE. seem the same now.

[@BoDean52]

Shame and the bad dealer felt that way, big move people in and out

[@tennwingman3350]

Again Congrats BoDean52, amazing bike. See you at VAMM21

[@BoDean52]

Thanks brother an actually been having some unusual back problems. Rehabbing pretty hard to make sure I’m at VAMM

[@Yamobethere]

The place you bought from sounds a lot like my local shop. Red River Harley Davidson in Wichita Falls, TX. They’re always looking to take care of you. One of their big things is when you get a bike from them the 1000 mile service is on them. My last bike I got from them they let me keep my seat and the stock seat plus threw in a free motorcycle riding class for my fiancé. I’ve got my sales guy, the service writer, one of the motor clothes girls , and the lead riding instructor on Facebook...all more than willing to answer questions in and outside of business hours. I’ve even had the owner buy me (and a small group of HOG members) dinner a couple times.

[@BoDean52]

Thank you Kyle for that story and I believe that’s what has made Harley successful in the past in addition to the motorcycles. A positive dealer network, seems to be less of those now a days!

[@ThePNWRiderWA]

What was probably happening at the first dealership is they had a person looking for a bike like the one you traded in. They will make a call and the offer is how much they can squeeze out of the ultra buyer. More or less acting as the go between and working two potential deals. It takes about ten minutes to get a price in a clean bike. Financing can work well as they get some $$ from that too and depending on the cost it maybe worth it to do it then just pay it all,off after awhile.

[@BoDean52]

First dealership was just short staffed and not real bright!

[@RoadGlideAndy]

Had bad and good. I deal with valley because I walked in one day looking for a gift for my dad, returned the following year and they knew my name. Needless to say I deal with them on everything. Like them so much my sales man is also my new neighbor.

[@BoDean52]

Totally get that Andy and I’ve been there a few times and they seem like really good people

[@JarheadSixRides]

thanks for sharing Sir! So glad it work out great. Noone wants to spend tons of money on a bike and have a bad experience.

[@BoDean52]

Amen to that, hope your well

[@HarleyGurl114]

Awesome to hear you had a great experience!!! I am still waiting for my ride!! Ordered some extras so it’s been a week but Geesh hoping next week it’s ready!! My dealer although here in Canada, was awesome! Bought all 4 of my Harleys there and the Mr has bought 6 or more!!! I got exactly what I paid for my StreetGlide for my trade in too!!! Was awesome!! People do matter and so do Dealers!! Great story!!!

[@BoDean52]

Thanks and soooooo excited to see your new bike. Consider naming it BoDean yet? 🤷‍♂️

[@HarleyGurl114]

@@BoDean52 LOL! Hmmm you gonna let the Mrs name yours Duchess??? 🤔

[@edsbikerstuff]

Why is that the dealer closest to me more often than not is a bad experience but you end up going across town or to another town and you are treated with respect.

[@BoDean52]

Really same here, shame actually

[@tmar0075]

I've noticed from my experience that the small mom n pop dealers..the big boutique ones seem to be indifferent when u want to debate cost ..like I should except what they throw down..with a little bit of attitude thrown in for good measure..go small for better overall experience..usually u will meet the owner too!! 😀

[@BoDean52]

So very well said and I agree 100%

[@BryTheBiker]

This is a great video! It’s sad how many people get treated so badly when they buy a bike. That text replay was great!

[@BoDean52]

Thanks Bry I appreciate that, would you expect any other text from me?

[@BryTheBiker]

@@BoDean52 nope ;-) Sadly some dealers forget the world is a small place and how many times a bad story is retold.

[@BigBert]

A new bike and a great experience win win mate congratulations 😎🤙🏻

[@BoDean52]

Amen to that and thanks Bert

[@captobmills]

That's funny.. i just a new 2020 road glide Limited that same week. Love it btw I was like you and wasn't thrilled about the shark nose ferring. But i do love the ride...

[@BoDean52]

They are great rides Paul, I never knew what I was missing

[@robinsonsmotorcycleandauto3929]

Hey I'm in Lansing Mi. Capitol is my dealer and have always had a great experience. Are you gonna ride with the HOG Chapter? I know they give you first year membership with purchase. They swapped over what I wanted without any issue. Probably met with Dale at some point. All have been good people so far

[@BoDean52]

I do plan to at some point and love everybody there. I did deal with Dale and he was awesome as well as Shannon and the rest of their team.

[@NVARider]

Your story sounds almost just like mine. First Harley dealer I went to was terrible. Was not a "harley guy" at the time and that experience turned Mrs. NVA and I off from HD all together. I happen to stop at Capitol HD on my way home from a business trip and they were great. Brought Mrs NVA there much to her dismay and she really liked it. So, I bought my RGS from them and have been really happy with it and them. Was it Scott that said the Road Glide would change your life? Haha. Great video! Thanks for sharing.

[@BoDean52]

I think it was him actually, really good folks. Look forward us riding with the ladies soon

[@nhmoosemtn6687]

Bought 2 bikes from Rochester HD in Rochester NH and they are great. The entire dealership from sales, clothing, parts and services.

[@BoDean52]

It’s so great to find a winning dealership like you have a now I have Dana

[@HDR20]

Small dealerships are far better. I will spend my money at that smaller dealerships or not multi-owned. The service and experience is always better. I have bought my last 4 or 5 bikes at small family friendly dealer that my wife now works for and believe me it is a large family

[@BoDean52]

I totally agree Josh, just have to find them and fortunately I found mine now. Ride safe

[@OverItAll954]

Yeah my local Harley dealer sux. All the old style hard sales car salesmen must work there now. I only buy used from individuals. So much cheaper and easier.

[@BoDean52]

Totally agree with you Frank, I have a new one in a used one and must say buying a used one was a much better experience

[@theSMYRNAcowboy]

I know EXACTLY how you feel. There is a "new" Can-Am Dealer around 13 miles away. My dealings with this dealership is, to say the least, crappy. I've been in contact with a dealership in Nashville before the burn. They are still working with me and I get an email now and then just to ask me how I'm doing. Can you guess who I will buy my 30K Can-Am from? I knew that you could.

[@BoDean52]

Exactly.....travel just to buy from someone like that!

[@darkman8022]

I purchased my Harley from Rommell in Smyrna DE my experience was great my salesman who go by the name of Tadpole was excellent (he is no longer there) they even stored the bike for me over the winter because my garage was full at no charge and was not rushed to pick it up and the funny thing is that I was not in the market to but I was just stopping thru. Parts ,service and apparel employees are great also

[@BoDean52]

That’s awesome and plenty of good dealers out there! Ride safe

[@tweetchris46]

Once you find a good dealership you realise what a pain in the arse the not so good dealerships are. Congratulations on the new bike btw, very nice.

[@BoDean52]

Thanks and glad I found this one for sure, ride safe!

[@billfowler2867]

I’ll throw a positive dealer experience on here. In 1998 or 9, I called my local Honda dealer and asked them to reserve the brand new VTR 996 Superhawk for me. They said they would. I got a call a few weeks later saying they had gotten the first VTR in Texas. They would prep it for me if I was still interested. I was there the next day. I paid MSRP. Didn’t try to haggle because it was a brand new model and the most beautiful bike I’d ever seen. They gave me a very fair trade in and I signed the papers. On my way out, the salesman said “Pick out a new helmet, jacket and boots as a thank you from us.” Can you imagine a dealer doing that today?

[@BoDean52]

Very nice!

[@MotoByChance]

LOVE YOUR TEXT RESPONSE!!!! Do not even get me started about sales people at dealership. Looked for Scarlett for a while. If I was alone, I was ignored. If I was with Aly, they talked to him instead of me. Finally found Scarlett at a dealership where a fellow Lita is a sales person. Darlene actually talked to me and worked a deal I was unwilling to walk away from. As long as I am here, it will be hard to buy from anyone else. Dyna Dar ROCKS.😎🏍🖤 Now go get Mrs BoDean some Captains. Either one she wants. 😜🤣

[@BoDean52]

So Mrs BoDean once asked if we could go to Captain Morgan for an ice cream, of course the place is Captain Frosty, have not let her forget. My text was a fit for my mood at the time 🤷‍♂️

[@MotoByChance]

@@BoDean52 You know I will have to mess with her now. 🤣👍🏻 I think the text was an excellent response. You did the classy thing not sharing the name of the dealer. What some need to understand is that we do have choices and we will go to their competitor if they do not treat us well. And you bike is gorgeous. Secret.... it is the only color I like on the Road Glide. Good choice!

[@my.motorrad]

The appeal to a higher authority ploy. Deals can be made quickly if they want to, but they want to wear you down. Watch Your Auto Advocate and Kevin Hunter if you want insight into the process. 16K is a terrible low ball. They would put it on the floor for 25k after you left with the new bike. With my current bike, I dealt with the owner of the dealership and it was seamless. I was out in an hour. The dealers where I live now tend to use the standard ploys and it's a trevail and we have several HD dealers in the valley(lots of other brands too, many are the RideNow chain or YAM/GOAZ). I'd probably go to Laidlaws in LA before them just based on their rep. They shoot straight. Your response wasn't inappropriate at all. I might have been as I'd probably do that same shot with me on the bike letting them know they are #1. :) Anyway Bob, good luck with the bike, you found a great dealer to deal with and it all worked out. 👍👊

[@BoDean52]

Thanks my friend I appreciate that and you. I know at the end of the day they’ll put the bike on for 24k and probably take 22.5 for it. I’m good with that as long as I think it’s fair and maybe I’ll follow along to see what they list this bike for. Ride safe

[@my.motorrad]

@@BoDean52 Not here Bob. They are asking crazy prices for used bikes.

[@dannycisterna5497]

I wish I could share a good experience with you, but I can't ,however my faith is restored that there are good dealerships out there that appreciate your business

[@BoDean52]

Sometimes it’s a search Danny for sure, ride safe

[@NicaHarlistamotovlogs]

Unfortunately my local dealer is one of does that has a bad reputation of buying experience.

[@BoDean52]

That’s a shame and I’ll tell you I’m driving further for this one

[@Viper6-MotoVlogger]

Yep, women are never wrong lol. The place I bought my cruiser was a bit of an annoying experience. The place I bought my sport tourer was a better experience, but both of them suck at servicing the bikes. I did find another place that is pretty awesome at serving bikes. A lot of people hate the negotiating part, but I rather enjoy it 👍

[@BoDean52]

She set the stage quick didn’t she 😂. Be honest be fair and make things enjoyable and I’ll buy from you forever

[@Viper6-MotoVlogger]

@@BoDean52 yep, that’s how it should be 👍

[@larry68hd11]

Thanks for sharing 👍

[@BoDean52]

My pleasure Larry, hope you’re well

[@davehowie03]

Capital city is an hour from me. Sounds like they’re worth the ride.

[@BoDean52]

Best dealership I have ever been too, ride safe

[@therealjackieboy6514]

You got a new bike?!?! You’re right. All they care about is the VIN because that dictates how much the bank will loan for the bike. That is where they work their numbers from.

[@BoDean52]

For sure and I like the “you’re right” comment 👍

[@youmustbethistall5861]

Two years ago, I was looking for my first HD; being only 5' tall, I presented some challenges. One dealership locked in on the "only" solution was going to be a bike I bought, and then pay another $2k for an Air Ride system (for the parts and then whatever install was going to be). No one offered seat changes or insights on how to make various bikes rideable for me. I ended up falling into a can't miss price on a 2016 Slim S that already had V&H pipes, 2 seats and a swing arm bag. The only change I've made is a La Pera Solo Forward seat. Had I not educated myself, I could have been way upside down just to get a bike I could ride. I really cannot say it was a "bad" dealership, but I felt like they saw me as a sucker in bike knowledge and were going to maximize their sale.

[@BoDean52]

Glad it worked out first of all and I would hope they would want to work with you on that. Hows the seat?

[@youmustbethistall5861]

@@BoDean52 The La Pera is great for what I need; moves me slightly forward so the controls are no longer a problem, and slightly improved my reach to the ground. So for a quarter of the price, I got the functionality I needed without major change to the bike.

[@babybugspaw7085]

Dutchess!! Sorry BoDean, momma got it right, Duke & Dutchess

[@BoDean52]

Your right, she was the winner! Dang it

[@RoadReality]

Not a Harley story, but I've had good and bad at m/c dealers. Bad one was when they pissed off my wife, so she said no Harley for me [she wanted to buy a bike too, but they only wanted to talk about mine, not finding her one]. GOOD was the Kawi dealer when I went to buy my Vaquero. I talked about it in my 300 Subscriber Shout-out video, but the gist is that they didn't allow test rides, but it turns out the salesman I was talking to was the owner, like in your case, and he said, "Give me a day's notice when you want to come back and ride it and I'll have it prepped for you." I test rode the Vaquero, and promptly bought it. They even threw in an aftermarket windshield and when THAT was too short, they swapped it out for free. I still buy parts and stuff for my Kawis there :D

[@BoDean52]

Totally get that and I’ve actually heard about some dealerships that we’re not paying attention to women riders that also buy motorcycles. Glad you had a good experience

[@mikegunsallus7387]

We had a local Honda dealership I went to high school with the owner I bought 2 used Goldwings from this place knew all the employees by first name and they knew me by first name. They sold the business to another dealership and everything changed. It’s not the same the staff has changed over I missed the old store. They treated you like family I bought my new Goldwing from another dealer

[@BoDean52]

People matter for sure

[@GBeWinginIt]

“Bunch of stuff I did on it, doesn’t matter it’s just the vin number” 😂 😂 Hilarious, that’s the story of my new bike and trade-in motorcycle life. So familiar. Great story. I really enjoyed this one.

[@BoDean52]

Thanks sir and I can get the same bike from different dealer and be happier because about it.

[@jamesfranks545]

That's right and then when the dealer puts it on the floor to sell they will list every single extra thing it has and price it out accordingly lol. The bling doesn't matter when you trade it but it's so incredibly important when the dealer sells it.

[@kwlambright]

Only had one dealer I have dealt with here in Texas, San jacinto hd. Gave me what I wanted on trade and when they forgot to let me ring the bell, they were busy, they gave me free first service and were very apologetic. They all know me and make it a point to greet me when I come in. Only place better is a Yamaha shop here but I pretty much grew up with the owners son racing

[@BoDean52]

Makes for a great experience doesn’t it!

[@easyglider1307]

Had a similar experience buying my Road Glide. The sales guy at Alligator Alley was a nice kid, but one of the Asst. Sales Managers that shall remain nameless was a TOOL of the highest order. I went there with full intention of buying my FIRST Harley. I specifically said to the guy if he broke out any paper with 4 boxes on it, I was going to get up and leave. Apparently I was not clear enough. I said multiple times I just want an out the door price, and he was slinging around numbers I am not even sure where he got them. The next day the sales guy calls me and says he has good news, then proceeds to tell me the same ridiculous number we discussed the day before. Long Story short, I ended up going the following week to the Sister store in Palm Beach and it was a completely different experience. I ended up getting a 2021 Road Glide, when i was actually looking at used initially, all because they were straight with me and treating me with Respect,

[@BoDean52]

Exactly and we are new proud RG men now! Congrats!

[@nbt3663]

I bought a bike a month ago. The add on stuff was ridiculous. I love the bike but hated the price.

[@BoDean52]

I totally hear you there

[@4gotin1]

Dimondale😂😂😂But otherwise a great video👍 Todd at Fox powersports in Wyoming Mi was great to work with on my Chieftain...we still go back just to hang out sometimes. Great all around dealership, as opposed to where I bought my previous Indian...awful and nameless

[@BoDean52]

Great catch and couldn’t remember the city 😂, kinda close right.... dealerships matter for sure

[@streettrek313]

I will say every dealership is different just like the salesperson. I take most of my dealer business out to Ray C Harley in lapeer. Capital City is great, was goin out for a benefit ride and blow my front bearing. Missed the ride but they had me out in hour KP great service manger. I’ve had my best experiences with the dealerships over a hour away, but why is that a common thing? Why is it that the dealerships further away are better?

[@BoDean52]

Doesn’t make sense but seems to me the smaller ones are better, the bigger dealers seem to be trying to move you in and out. Worth the extra ride to me. Ride safe

[@LuckyDogGaming]

I feel like I should call this dealership now. I’m in Dearborn might be worth the ride there. I have a V7 now and want to add a bagger.

[@BoDean52]

I think it’ll be worth the ride super good people, no pressure and they will end up knowing you by name when you’re done

[@billflesher8824]

So when does the pool go in

[@BoDean52]

Hahahaha.....Neighbors pools already in

[@Hogdriver88]

How much OVER MSRP did they want?? Seems to be the latest tactic this year around here. I have 3 different HD dealers nearby - all are part of multi-multi dealer ownership and the attitude that comes with collecting dealerships does not play well with customer service. Unfortunately my local shop went from family owned to a multi-multi corporation when the long time principal died and the family sold. Shopping there has not been the same since - like they’re doing me a favor by letting me buy from them now, when I’ve bought 2 bikes from that location in the past. They are not alone - test rode a 1250 GSA 2 weeks ago today. The sales manager I’d been dealing with was to call me with trade and purchase #s - haven’t heard from him since. On the flip side, 2 years ago I bought a new Gold Wing from a dealership 2 hours away from me - totally by email - for 4K UNDER MSRP - no BS during the purchase at all. Dealers are hit-and-miss no matter the brand and why I hate doing the new purchase dance.

[@BoDean52]

They did not want over MSRP and I get the sometimes tough dealership experience. Fortunately this is a good one! Ride safe

[@jonathannovak5961]

Yep, one reason I ride an Indian instead of a Harley is because the Spartan Cycle sales guys are way better at being listeners and engaging the person coming in the door. The Harley dealer across the street didn't give me the time of day. So, I responded by not spending a dollar at their dealership.

[@BoDean52]

Totally get it and it sounds like it worked out for you. That is exactly what the owner of the good dealership was telling me happens at times. You’re new to Harley and your experience at One dealership we choose to go across the street