Why Service is Terrible. And How You Might Be Responsible... | Spark

Ever thought about why getting your motorcycle, sometimes also cars, serviced is such a trying experience? The quality of the experience is usually poor, there's a lot of friction, mechanics cannot repair anything, or diagnose much... you've been there right? On this edition of MotorInc Spark, Shumi's talking about why the service experience in India is so poor and what we do to make it so... and what we could do to improve our experience.
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More videos like this are here
• Are expensive cars/bik...
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CHAPTERS
00:00-00:39 Service Does Suck
00:40-01:21 The Price Makes No Sense!
01:22-02:28 Guaranteed Poor Experiences
02:29-03:44 The Mechanics' Side Of the Story
03:45-04:20 Outside Authorised Service
04:21-05:24 We Have A Role To Play
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#MotorInc #Shumi #Spark #Thought #Think #GarageGoals #SingleBikeGarage #OneBike #OneLife #Live #Love

[@motorinc]

Shall we take a moment to say thank you to your favourite mechanics and workshops here? Let me start: Thank you so much! Zubin Ponnappa. Zubinn Design, Mumbai Joshua Crasto. JCMoto, Wherever he is usually Kunal Bhaskaran. Slipstream Performance, Pune Anand Dharmaraj. Indimotard Greasehouse, Bengaluru - Shumi

[@vignale666]

My heartiest thanks to Mr. Gopi Ram and his sons Naresh and Suresh Meghwanshi at GR Autos, Ajmer.

[@akshatgupta1297]

Thank you for sharing these

[@siddharthpathak1391]

Zoheb & his team - Art of Motorcycles, Bengaluru Ram & Ajay - MotoMonks, Vasai, Mumbai Lokesh Aradhya - Swaastika Car Care, Bengaluru Anupam & his team - World of Service, Noida (works magically on all gen FIATs)

[@RanjithVishnuvardhan]

Great initiative... Looking forward to know about all the good places and champions, also from Chennai...

[@vardanrathi7777]

Surat, Gujarat - CARS: Rani Sati Motors (Repairs), F7 Cars Spa and Decor (Accessories), Detailing Dude (Coatings and Wash) SMALL BIKES / SCOOTERS : Shiv Shakti Workshop and Garage, Vesu BIG BIKES: Please go to authorised service centre only 😅

[@vigneshm-ge6wv]

I’m an authorised SSS automotive dealer. I am absolutely moved with this thread. I have a double post graduation with 8 years of corporate experience. I quit from a monthly 6 digit salary to join my family business out of sheer passion for automobiles. I attend to service customers everyday and it’s really painful to see customers bargain for even Rs.50. I have several times tried explaining about timely service, type of service to choose and savings related to the same but that’s mostly in vain. Another issue is customer’s “I know it All” half knowledge from the internet, sometimes challenging our experience and expertise. I’m at a point where my team and I just talk less, quote recommended repairs and maintenance. The customer can choose what he wants but can’t complain later for what he hasn’t chosen. Unfortunate but true. But customer like shooting stars do exist.

[@motorinc]

Yes, obviously this was going to happen as well. This is why we, as customers, are as important in breaking the cycle as you are on the other side

[@prashanthq]

Sir, are you located in Pune?

[@sanketjain9320]

Would love to talk to you, if you can share some ID of yours.

[@bhushankulkarni1259]

@vighneshm-ge6wv Where are you located?

[@marksanyal]

Another perspective is paying a premium price and then getting budget level service. That hurts the most. I've never negotiated on the quoted prices, because I believe the price they are quoting is calculated based on what they need to pay their mechanics and stock parts. I'm fine with higher prices as long as the service I receive is equal to the price. I'm not expecting it to be brand new. I just don't want new problems to emerge right after the service.

[@kamalchoudhury2910]

Exactly. They changed the clutch assembly of my car. I came home and as a habit i checked if everything was fitted, tighten and closed. To my surprise I found that one of the clips that close the cover of the gear clutch cable hub was missing. And when I called them to ask about this, they simply denied saying that "aise hi rehta hai wo..." that there is only 5 clips and not 6. And then I went there and asked them to show in another car of same model and they found that it was indeed 6 clips that hold the cover to the gearbox cable hub. These are the things why services in India not praiseworthy....

[@arv1ndgr]

This is where dealerships take us customers for joy ride😅

[@varun2250]

@@kamalchoudhury2910 Gave my car for service, they added wheel balancing task without my knowledge and added it to the bill. That's fine. When going on a highway a week later, reached 90kmph and the whole car started vibrating so much that it felt like each part of the car might come out as pieces. Later found out that after shoddy balancing job they misplaced the wheels from their required place, front wheel in the back and right wheel in the left. Later an individual garage had fixed such a serious problem. Learned my lesson to not trust any branded company's over loaded service centres.

[@pramitroy11]

​@@varun2250Which car do you drive?

[@motorinc]

Spot on. This has happened even at Triumph and Ducati, for example, with Shumi. If we don't promote the idea that the work the mechanics do is respect worthy, then they have no incentive to put their hearts into it. The usual issue is customers and service both saying "You go first!" and we know that results that brings. So now we're saying, "Fine, we'll go first" 😊

[@daksh_saroha]

This made so much sense. Never stopped to think about it from this angle. It is unfortunate truly. But then again it becomes all the more important to name and fame the mechanics (like the one mentioned in the video) who truly invest their time and skill towards the machine. Thank you for the video. Truly eye opening.

[@motorinc]

Thanks Daksh! The pinned comment has a few mechanics/workshops being thanked already. Add yours!

[@vardanrathi7777]

In case of cars, Authorised Service Centres (ASC) are always wayyyyy more expensive than external garages. This is partly due to the fact that ASC have to put authorised "branded" parts only whereas externals can put whatever they want. The major factor here is resale value increases significantly when you have service records from the ASC. I have seen a 50% premium too just because ASC service records were available. This has created so much rush at the ASCs that they are always overloaded. And after all this, competition has led companies to make apps and tracking systems which customers open day and night and expect their cars to be serviced in half a day. Taking Shumi's swiggy analogy, people expect service too to be done in 10 minutes. All this has led the system to a lethargic service experience irrespective of the brand.

[@motorinc]

We can't also deny that the volume of traffic at the average service centre is massive too, and the system will struggle to cope with that kind of pressure for sure too.

[@motog-rocks6544]

I will also like to add that car companies have started adding unnecessary service requirements. Take the TATA Nexon Petrol. It's got a 7,500km/6 month service requirement that's absolutely useless where they just "CHECK" everything and aren't required to DO anything. This is absolutely a waste of time and money on customer end AND also simply fills up the dealership with busy work (but gives them money for claiming to have checked stuff). CAR Service is a money making deal. Period.

[@The_Universe_Boss]

I always thank my Bajaj service station mechanic and always offer him some tea/snack during the post service check ride. The smile on his face is priceless. Shows its not always about the money but more about the appreciation!

[@motorinc]

❤️💯

[@dark420passenger]

I stopped trusting all mechanics. No matter how nice you are to them you are just a source of income to them. They try to scam you as much as possible to milk money out of you. I am a software engineer, I started taking things into my own hands. Bought a full toolkit for servicing my motorcycle and car. I do all the servicing myself. For every motorcycle there comes a special toolkit to take apart all the engine components which costs around 2 to 3k. It's an one time investment, you can change the engine oil, replace the air filter and even open up the crank case and clean everything yourself using the toolkit. I recently replaced the clutch of my avenger. I learnt that every vehicle comes with a workshop manual that you can download online, it even has how much you should torque each nut and bolt. If you follow that, there is no need to give your vehicle to these scammers.

[@The_Universe_Boss]

@@dark420passenger That really good that you have learnt the art yourself, its always handy. But see everyone can't do it. Most people have paucity of time and skills. Moreover in my case, the official 5 year guarantee of the vehicle is void if I don't service it at authorised service station.

[@motorinc]

Great!

[@Sol-cf9ko]

Shumi is the face and catalyst of positive change in the Indian motorcycle realm. Also through the calm delivery of his unique perspective that provokes thoughts of improvement in us. A true role model.

[@motorinc]

Thank you so much!

[@p.r.i.t.o.m.n.a.n.d.y]

This video is an eye opener. Loved it and never actually thought it that way, primarily because of trust issues. In my locality, Namrup, Assam, most bikers do not visit the authorised dealers, because they are very far away and instead opt for the other garages. And the skilled mechanics there are very notorious mostly. I would really like to thank my uncle and his friend who are great mechanics for all the advices and help over call.

[@motorinc]

Glad you have a solution Pritom! We know how hard just locating a trustworthy source of aid and information can be sometimes

[@Dadafan66]

Coming from the fact that I am a lawyer myself, I think Shumi would've made an excellent Lawyer should he chosen that profession. Good stuff

[@motorinc]

Haha! Thank you! Shumi would, naturally, argue against that 🤣

[@mohdkhajanaseeruddin537]

It is so apparent that it needs to be told!! This is apt for almost everything not just bikes and cars...thank you so much....whenever I listen to you I am so much more clearer in my head!!

[@motorinc]

So welcome MKN! Good to see you in the comments again!

[@vishalsandal1053]

Awesome Point Raised. Loved it 😊 it is true, when we in our jobs want to get paid more every year for almost doing the same job why can't we understand that the same goes to other jobs as well and when they make our lives & machines enjoyable, why not pay what they deserve. Kudos to Shumi & Team for bringing this up.

[@motorinc]

Glad it hit the spot Vishal!

[@SudheendraKaranam]

When I had 1985 bullet, the previous owner with whom I bought the bike specifically instructed to give it to a mechanic Shop which was 30 kms away from my house. I first took it to close by RE dealer for service and yet I was not happy. Then took time out to go to Malleshwaram from Basavanagudi and the mechanic immediately recognised the vehicle as well as what things have been touched by dealer and what was. It done. I told him I can not come till here every time as it’s too far then he asked me to change 6v system to 12 volts and alternator+ change the head gasket (it would be costly repair hence previous owner did not do it) once this is done RE authorised service centre would understand my bike to maintain it. Then he asked me to go to him as early as possible every time service was done so that he can tune the bike for free. He use to say he knows the beat of bike like doctors know heartbeat - if tune is wrong bike is suffering. P.s. he wold not touch any bike if it was not water washed and shining. He would want the owners to keep bike clean, chain lubed etc. great guy. When I sold my bike 10 years back, I also gave specific instructions to the next person to go to that guy for service 😊

[@motorinc]

Brilliant story! Thanks Sudheendra!

[@RanjanSkyline]

A bit of empathy and gratitude towards the mechanics also goes a long way. Thank you for this video!

[@motorinc]

You're so welcome!

[@AnshumaanBakshi]

What an insight Shumi, splendid. This is exactly what I cam here for.

[@gauravdeshpande5290]

I would really really like to Thank Shumi for putting this up.. There had to be someone like you to speak about this topic.. Thank You Shumi.. Big Heart.. Being an Organized Multibrand Car Workshop owner, I know the hardship that we face to convince a client to think of their cars on a more serious manner.. Being an Engineer myself & a car geek, this really feels honoured.. This may change the way people look at us.. Majority of clients are cost centric, they feel servicing/maintaining their cars outside your ASC should be way cheaper.. Which is not the case, we put out our engineering process towards each car.. One Car at a Time.. Have procedures built up, process aswell.. Because, we really know what ASC gives in terms of experience as well as quality compared to us in terms of everything.. Still we as Car Workshop owners are asked to keep our budgets low.. Then may it be for any service regardless of the matter if it is repairing your broken dead vehicle.. My God.!! I Can go onn and talk for life.. Really Shumi THANK YOU.. ❤️

[@motorinc]

Glad you put your heart into it. One step at a time, we change things

[@Ashes-9]

You have absolutely nailed it. Its the customer mindset that drives service cost. If a brand charges more for service, the customer avoids buying the car hence the sales and demand of that vehicle falls, and so does the resale value. And this applies for the quality of the product as well. These days build quality goes for a toss as buyers need more features. And most of them, the buyer never uses and sometimes they arent aware how it works too😂 Sadly the automobile market in India is driven by buyers who own cars just for the sake of showing off or competing in the rat race, not for the enthusiasts. kudos to Motorinc for addressing the issue ! ❤❤

[@motorinc]

Great points in there! We recently met a manufacturer tomtoming their comprehensive bluetooth suite. When asked about who's going to use it they said, "nearly no one" with a shrug. And then explained that its purchase feature hygiene even though actual utility is zero

[@bigfatbub]

Great video and very informative 👏 There is a lot to learn from this 5 mins as a customer than anything.. great job.. you always learn something new 👌

[@motorinc]

Glad it was helpful!

[@bigbearbangalore]

Well said. It is about time we accept that fact that WE are responsible for the service quality we receive. No point blaming the dealership workshops. Thanks!

[@motorinc]

Hey BBB! We're not saying the workshops are all squeaky clean either. But we've played the "blame the workshop" game long enough to know it doesn't improve the experience. So we try something new. Like offering respect when we see good work and encourage the better workshops on as much as we can

[@ontheroad8149]

@@motorincdude, this guy is an institution in himself and a very sought after mechanic in Bengaluru!

[@arv1ndgr]

Bang on to this perspective! This is exactly what I feel good about being in Bigwing by Honda, where skill levels are considerably good. Also Service is premium but not expensive. Brands should make quality bikes and dealerships should be equipped with well trained mechanics who know what they are talking about. However said these days, Chain cleaning, lubing is a DIY affair which everyone needs to know and take care. Situation might improve once Bike purchase include a basics 101 sessions to new owners on Safety and Maintenance training

[@motorinc]

Yes. Many brands are shy of teaching their owners how to take off their machines thinking it'll represent a loss of service revenue. Which is as short-sigthted as it sounds

[@bharathmenon4725]

Sensible, insightful video as always! Love you, team! But 2:47 was a laugh for me personally :D

[@chaitanya4321]

Excellent, original, authentic content. Congratulations. The point about being proactive and not reactive when it comes to servicing costs is also broadly applicable to most decisions in life.

[@motorinc]

Thanks Chaitanya!

[@nilanjandas2762]

Excellent observations. It's very true that the dealership mechanics aren't skilled enough to tackle somewhat complex servicing problems and i was scared of taking my scooter there so instead I serviced mine from a local mechanic who was skilled and trustworthy. Have been doing it since my free services got over at the dealership. One thing that has happened is that major problems don't show up more often and that has reduced my servicing anxiety.

[@motorinc]

Yes. Mechanics outside the system are not just more knowledgable sometimes, but they have the latitude to approach the solution based on their experience... which the traditional system sometimes won't even permit

[@Mr007JUNED]

Hats off to you guys... You are talking on such a topic which a normal person never thinks off... I really appreciate it ❤

[@motorinc]

Thank you Juned!

[@ShareefBalak101Taka]

Instead of straight away replying to the email. You made a complete video for advice. Thank you! I have always paid 500/- extra to the mechanic unofficially for the work he's done. I pay for the value someone provides me not just the service. The problem with exiting the system is that the warranty goes out of the window. I've touched the feet of my mechanics on many occasions and have been disappointed as well many more times but they are essential for my survival as my bikes are what keep me alive and happy. Yes, I have had major issues and incompetent work done at times. I agree with you wholeheartedly Shumi. I was looking at the symptoms and not at the root cause. Thanks to you I have a better understanding of the service industry. I am happy to pay more as long as I and my machine are treated with love and care. Forget me, just showing love for the machine is honestly sufficient. I do realise the fact that mechanics in service stations are underpaid. Now, my warranty is out of the window. I consider it an opportunity to take my bike to someone who enjoys working on it. You, Sir, Shumi, have taught me sooo muchhhhhhhhh. I would touch your feet out of respect for not only making me a better biker but a better human as well. I am not fanboying out or anything. I just have a ton of respect for you and your work. Your perspective has helped guide me. I have a different taste in bikes all together but you're the one who taught me how to approach it and in what ways. Thanks

[@motorinc]

Thank you TDM! We're glad we've been able to help!

[@ShareefBalak101Taka]

@@motorinc most welcome

[@suryateja2k11]

That's the reason I've started doing this. For general service a nearby garage mechanic. And any complex issues especially engine related stuff, gonna visit authorised service center as the mechanic nearby may not have the exact idea as to how my bike gets repaired as he works on multiple brands. Hence for complex issues an authorised service center or any permium service center with good technicians is recommended. Thank you Shumi sir for putting your valuable time in explaining as to why service in an authorised center is not what we expect it to be. Much love to MotorInc fam❤❤❤. Waiting for season 2. ❤

[@motorinc]

Yes! Shumi also uses his trusted mechanics to figure out potential sources of problems and then gets authorised service to actually fix what's broken

[@collinsenosh]

Learnt a lot from this as a beginnner rider. Very relevant video. Thank you for publishing.

[@motorinc]

So welcome!

[@vm-my6hg]

I understand and agree on the two wheeler aspect. The experience on the four wheeler side has been the opposite for me. Some authorised centres make a lot more by the replace culture and sometimes unnecessarily recommend major overhauls when they're not needed at all. Thank heavens for the knowledgeable mechanics who help us avoid those pitfalls and don't charge an arm & a leg for their knowledge & skills

[@motorinc]

Thanks for sharing!

[@viveksingh330]

Loved it! Makes so much sense! ❤

[@motorinc]

♥️

[@nomadicinside]

To the point and quite an eye-opening thought process Shumi, well said!

[@motorinc]

♥️

[@aniruddhapisharody7035]

What a beautiful point that you have made, the problem with Indian mentality is we do not have dignity of labour, being an Indian I think its down looked upon if you say you want to be a mechanic, I always liked working on my bikes and I enjoyed visiting the local garage were my bike was serviced, that is were most of my learning happened, I use to get them cold drinks and snacks everytime i was visiting them sometimes just stoping by to say hello, and the joy on their face was priceless. after paying the owner for the service i use to tip the guys who worked on my bike. I also had invited them for my wedding. I think they deserve much more and its sad to see how people treat them. Great work Team for bringing this topic out. Thank you Schumi sir your words hit some different neurons in my head.

[@mihirdeshpande5922]

Thank you so much! This needed to be said.

[@motorinc]

Glad it was helpful!

[@chandrahasbarde]

This is so very insightful...so long as the warranty does not void.. give credit and sm monies where they are due and worthy..good blog..

[@motorinc]

♥️

[@mrnandyonthego]

I completely understand and relate to your point of view. However, not all riders/drivers expect the service to be cheap. It is true in the case of an owner of a commuter vehicle as the objective is to keep the entire cost, buying and maintaining cost, as low as possible. When a person buys a premium segment bike and I will give you my example, I own a Hero XPluse 200 4v, though it is not premium in actual sense but it is the flagship model of Hero presently and my first question at the service center was that is there a separate package for service where the technician would provide me with the necessary patience and time to fix issues of my bike. I agree that I may have expressed a little grudge if the price was too high but understanding the necessity of good and expert service I would have paid the same. Also anyone buying a premium segment bike without considering the service cost would soon realise and either course correct or get off board. So I feel the manufacturers should start a culture from their end, pay skilled technicians more and charge their customers the premium, if they want to keep the service network under them.

[@notanotherbrickinthewall]

Great video! If a brand increases their service cost to improve quality.... They will be cursed by all of us.

[@motorinc]

Just a matter of time before we demand the experience instead of lower cost...

[@anilrathore5827]

Man!! what a channel!!! big fan guys!!! more power to you.💯💯

[@motorinc]

Thank you Anil!

[@avikpodder6267]

Wow... Never thought it this way. It is so true in every possible way one can imagine. But I do know a few instances where even after paying the service hasn't been upto the mark, so the owner had to shift his vehicle to some other garage where finally he got relief. Finding a good garage is also sometimes difficult but yeah all in all 9/10 times the outside garage get things done better. This video is a great eye opener for many. Keep up the great stuff. ❤

[@motorinc]

Yes. If you don't give up on the looking then the universe sets about finding (for you)

[@karthikvenugopal6104]

I am a mechanic,so was my Dad....we survived doing this .... My dad always used to say....that our job is not respected....people only like to pay less....most the vehicle owners behave like we steal the bike parts and fit faulty ones,some even think we use thier bikes all day,some empty their tanks and give bike,and some say adjust and do,i will not pay u much and expect their splendour to perform like Ducati...... As i know the mechanic he was,i learnt the trade from him...he deserved much better .....

[@saikatduttachowdhury535]

Respect! Only MotorInc (kudos Shumi! kudos Kartikeya) can bring forward and talk about such bitter truths! Thank you for raising awareness.

[@motorinc]

Thank you Saikat!

[@intercept7965]

It was an honour visiting Sheri sir's workshop in pune. Had my motorcycle carburettor rejet done. Very innovative and experienced Sheri sir. Saw a Yamaha Midnight SL there absolutely rare motorcycle

[@venkataramanak8264]

Kudos!!! very well put together.

[@motorinc]

Thank you!

[@jaytrivedi2539]

This is very deep and understandable video. Not usually discussed in automotive channel.

[@motorinc]

Glad you liked it!

[@nikeshnadar]

Exactly the same reason I moved on to outside the ASC for critical and major works and for basic i just stick to the ASC. It gives a good balance between the cost and peace of mind. Thanks Shumi and the MotorInc Team for bringing this out to the public.

[@motorinc]

❤️💯

[@AJ_Tries]

Hey, can anyone help me with a reliable place in Navi Mumbai where I can get aftermarket crashguards and get them installed on my CB300R?

[@sanjeevdm]

Can't agree more! The system has to change. Unfortunately the price of labour and a mechanic's social standing are so low, that it will take much for things to change. Videos like this are the need of the hour.

[@motorinc]

If you give respect, they'll slowly and surely learn to respect the work they do. That changes everything!

[@sukhjitsingh5403]

Important topic very nicely put, thanks.

[@motorinc]

Thanks for listening

[@shashanksaikumar]

I actually did question a mechanic about his work, a while back when I went to get my car serviced. I won’t name the dealer in question, but what the mechanic said was, swapping consumables is probably the only reason you should bring a car to the authorized service center. Their business planning doesn’t allow for a longer service that involves a troubleshoot. Most mechanics are only trained to do oil and filter changes and not much else.

[@motorinc]

Yes, not only is s/he spot on, in a volume-oriented business like service is in the country, most dealers would rather clear lots of vehicles with small problems than struggle with a few vehicles with more complex issues

[@get_Vipin]

Thanks for addressing this issue.. Kindly make more videos on this.

[@motorinc]

Glad it made sense to you!

[@sradhasumandas]

Wow, never thought about services in such way. Thank you Shumi

[@motorinc]

Our pleasure!

[@mailmacho]

This is a great video. I have gained a lot more perspective from this and I will pay more and more respect to my mechanic. 😊

[@motorinc]

Absolutely! Together we make it better. For us and them!

[@pucci_seq636]

There are Indian automobile reviewers and so-called automobile journalists that I find all over youtube who say "Dekhne ko milti hein" in every sentence and then there's this guy. I love listening to him talk. He puts all those other KZbinrs to shame

[@motorinc]

He is a class apart.

[@neil.o4]

Great perspective.. I feel the word “service” may be one reason too. Many people who wont pay more for service would pay for “repair”. I am not expecting a highly skilled mechanic to do service, but repair is something else. I assumed someone who is learning the trade would start with service, hence the low pay, and become a skilled mechanic with experience, which is the norm in any job.

[@nikhilar886]

Finally !!! Someone spoke about aftersales The way people treat or look at an SA or technician at a ASC as to change

[@motorinc]

And only then will their attitude to us also change. Both must change obviously if we’re to improve as a whole

[@prasadmoka4810]

Cant Thank you enough Shumi Sir...for understanding our pain.. As a Technician..We have been working hard for dealers but they don't recognize all our hardwork and skills Thank you Regards, Moka Prasad

[@motorinc]

Glad to help. We hope the situation improves and service technicians get paid as much as they deserve.

[@knightriderity]

Such mature thought...very enlightening 👍🏻👍🏻🙌🏻🙌🏻

[@motorinc]

Glad you think so!

[@donnish6]

Incredible as always...it does get tougher in smaller cities where in even if you are ready to pay ....good help is hard to find

[@motorinc]

Yes. There are others in our comments saying the same thing too! But this situation will also change. It literally has to!

[@abadagadu1272]

The message that this video delivers is so very important. I definitely think this particular vid should also be made in Hindi to reach larger audiences - which hopefully will one day lead to a good chunk of ppl demanding better service for more money.

[@motorinc]

Good point!

[@RC-br1ps]

@@motorinc, towards this end, the CC caption feature can have a Hindi (and/or regional language) option?

[@motorinc]

We're thinking about the right way to do this. But half-measures we don't do

[@RC-br1ps]

@@motorinc, I read summaries to understand videos in languages I do not comprehend. If they offered well written CC's in English I would watch them. Unfortunately this is often not the case. Dubbing is usually off putting. That is my preference/predjuice taking and may not be the case for the majority. Anyway, thank you for all that you do to get salient points across, succinctly.

[@abadagadu1272]

@@motorinc Just a suggestion - dubbing videos would be cost effective and yield decent results as long as someone scripts them right. When Hindi is a succes, eventually can move on to a few more languages to cover the huge geographical motor community that is India (eventually the World).

[@vinithvikram2259]

Hope this message is ingrained in everyone. 🎉🎉 Thank you.

[@motorinc]

♥️

[@iamthatakhil]

Sadly, inflation in certain industries has peaked to whole new levels while it didn’t even pester some professions. People like software professionals, bankers etc had seen significant growth in their pay in the past decade. I know it’s not everyone in that fields, but certainly the people that have the skill and knowledge needed. We still underpay our retail employees, sanitation workers, essential labourers like carpenters, electricians, for that matter even nurses, police, teachers and doctors by the governments. Governments think they’re just income black holes where they pour in money for no immediate returns. But the kind of work they all do and the kind of skill, education, experience and risk needed to accomplish them isn’t taken into consideration. And the good old “no respect” for certain professions in our country. But regarding the automotive industry, you are absolutely right. The mechanics and dealerships deserve good pay for the skill they have. But pay scales aren’t regulated, like, at all here. Good video!

[@bancancerking1993]

I watched this video 10 times and to me it’s as fresh as the first view meaning I’ll never get bored with Shumi

[@motorinc]

Thank you so much!

[@virajvrooms]

I remember Aspi Bathena's poster in which he completed some milestone on a Karizma. Nostalgic. Any chance you could list where those garages are located in Pune?

[@HunterVlog350cc]

Earlier in 2010 I had one specialist who used to repair my thunderbird and I used to give some tip extra for that-did some jugaads- Oil leak- put bigger car bolt/ hole in silencer pipe- weld brass . now in my hunter the mechanics could not see that the rear brake disc was damaged and it had to be replaced at 5k, finally senior mechanic told me how it got eroded and what I am doing wrong, since I was constantly putting my leg over the lever which was rubbing the pad continuously. with the new kind of tech it is always replace now rather than repair. However minor things like disc clean. chain clean and lube I do it myself weekely/monthly.

[@motorinc]

♥️

[@tsk8349]

This is one of the best advice from Shumi which I generally followed for years now..I always maintain a good rapport with the mechanics of KTM service centre and believe me if u have good rapport they will do wonders for you…. and never mess with your driver/mechanic/ doctor/ gas delivery man 😁😁 you will regret afterwards..

[@motorinc]

Mess with them? We say be nice. When things go wrong, be firm but remain respectful

[@fringeanomaly9284]

hey I am from Pune too the guy you mentioned having garages in Pune do they work on small displacement vikes too,? MT15 and such?

[@motorinc]

Pinned comment! Do reach out to them!

[@barun9665]

Hi Shumi . I am living in West Bengal and moving to Pune next month for job change . I have Xblade 160 and now have to buy new bike in Pune . I would use for office commuting and weekend rides for 400 -500 km . My considerations are VStrom 250 , Duke 250 , KTM 390 ADV . Which one should I pick ?? Seeing your reviews, I am slightly more inclined to Vstrom than other 2 . .. Your advice??

[@leaf.knowledge]

Glad to see insights like this possible in Indian space. Thank you. ❤

[@motorinc]

Absolutely!

[@RC-br1ps]

What needed saying was said. Thank you. 👏

[@motorinc]

You are so welcome!

[@heat21in]

All points make so much sense. I fear that this may be true for the service network for costlier bikes as well like RE. I can guarantee that all RE riders must have faced this i.e., bike is not services to your liking or some weird issues start coming after service. And looking at the traffic at the service center it is clear that the mechanic and management is under a lot of pressure to keep pushing out the vehicle on time. So, reaching out to the mechanic for a specific bike issue, goes out of the window. I agree that an external vehicle service network may be the solution but there are only a handful out there and finding them could be a challenge and maybe not everyone can do it. I believe that if service quality needs to improve then the service network may need to take that ownership. Also, some responsibility falls on the bike manufacturers as well, they can improve their design so that less replacements are required. BTW, RE is already charging a premium for their services (at least in Bangalore).

[@malikveeresh6751]

Almost all over the rest of the world, an automobile dealership implies a composite location - showroom, sales, stockyard, accessories, after-sales, service, fast moving spare parts, workshop, suspension/engine jobs and pretty much everything other than maybe a paintshop. The person selling or trying to sell a vehicle to you also spends time in the workshop and vice-versa. This is how it used to be in India also. Over the years, however, we seem to have reached a point where a showroom is for marketing as different from sales, stockyard has been replaced by the term "dump" (figuratively and literally), passing the buck between showroom and workshop is the order of the day and as for the promoter or the big boss - the customer does not ever see them - mostly because the value of the real estate in the centre of the city is so high, that the customer is not a priority. I now actively look for dealerships which have their workshops attached, and go take a look at work ethics at the workshop - especially in the evening when customers are lined up to collect their vehicles.

[@motorinc]

Yup! The real estate issue is real, Veeresh!

[@SauvikRoy]

This was very well said. I still have some points to offer: I found out that a regular 10k service interval on even a BMW GS310 costs between 7-10k, while on RE it is 2-3k at best. I got it, cost effective, regular machine. Point is, even with the 10k service can someone say that they did the best service? It comes back to us only: own something simple and cheap like a Passion Pro, Splendor, Activa, and it makes damages done by poor workmanship tolerable; parts are cheap as is labour. If you go for even a RE, things will start to get slightly expensive. But I think they struck good balance. With cheap and poor workmanship companies are discouraging purchase of their vehicles only. I had my engine cease up twice from having repairs done from company dealership. They went out of their way to help me out which is still a win in my books. But this whole expense and inconvenience could have been avoided if they had better mechanics. As a customer, I am willing to pay more, if I can get good service. PS: If one is knowledgeable enough they should insist on the particulars of the diagnostics and repairs. This would be even nicer if they documented this on the bill.

[@motorinc]

Absolutely! Great point Sauvik! And glad your bikes okay! We'd have gone around the bend if our engine seized _twice!_

[@Traveller_Da]

I agree with what was said here about good service requires good cost , but there are several instances where I have seen willful overestimates and overcharging for a minor problem. Example: in our suzuki the front side had a bobbing problem felt on slower speed,the ASC suggested checking the bearing,brakes and suspension. We declined and went local who checked the tubeless tyres and saw they're having a bulge , ASC would charge a lot more atleast for a tyre change fix. So ,It's not about if we want to pay , i feel since such things happen we feel everyone is trying to milk our pockets and we have to avoid it .

[@motorinc]

We never said overpay for _everything!_ Always make time and space to appreciate good work and encourage it when you encounter it. Which can be a money thing or it may not!

[@surajkraghavan2190]

Majority of the service centre’s run by showrooms have a serious issue to maintain their trained staffs.. often they don’t pay well and quit their jobs…ultimately u end up getting a apprentice or newbie to work on your machine…. I feel pissed when they even to struggle to identify the issue i once changed ac compressor for a quirky noise that it made and later knew it was a worn out alternator pulley..! 1) i ended up replacing a working thing which was not required to be replaced 2) cost and time involved 3) dissatisfaction.. People buy maruti / hero only for this reason bcoz a half baked mechanic can still fix it

[@autodecode007]

You spoke my heart out, bro.. .. Schumi rocks.. As always..

[@motorinc]

Thank you!

[@Dheeeeraj]

An eye opener! Brilliant!

[@motorinc]

Thanks Dheeeeraj!

[@vilehunter0074]

I generally do wheel balancing and alignment from a local tyre shop as the service centers dont have the time to check what the issue is in our old 1st gen swift there was a bent beam in the rear of the car eating away the rear tyres every 10k kms and they were clue less what was happening when they were staring at it they had the car for 2 weeks and nothing, but a small shop out in a small village found the issue in seconds and we got the beam replaced and voila vanished like magic later found out it is a common issue from team bhp and the service guy did apologize and made a friend out of him when talking to him realsied the life of these guys rather than the pay the target and the breaks they get is tragic he once informed that since the amount of vehicles that are coming is huge he was forced to skip lunch I dont know about other service centers but imagine the concentration he has this time it was just overlooking this what if they forget to torque the wheels or stuff, I think the whole system along with our expectations on timeframe should get revamped.

[@ajaysarang4620]

Really appreciate this video

[@ShivanshuSJC]

In my opinion it's not that black and white, i started off with taking my beloved vehicles to the ASC only but then over a period of time i realized that often they do a worse job than a local mechanic outside. This is due to the sheer volume of work they have ..at 9AM, before opening time, they have cars lined up outside in a queue and so they simply do not want to give the time needed to even diagnose problems properly, if you are too particular about a problem you can sense that they are categorizing you as a paranoid customer and thinking of using that to their advantage. Long story short, it's the people's greed, laziness and the need of getting big money without honest work that has put the services in the state they are. Solution is an extremely robust consumer complaint redressal system within the company and a strict US like judicial system which has quick and heavy penalty imposition powers by the consumer courts.

[@motorinc]

Good points! But it isn't ever that one-sided. The volume is definitely a challenge for our country and it won't have an easy solution for sure. But the reason why they _push_ the volume, is also because a/ they make less per vehicle, so they do more vehicles instead and b/ if as a group, we accept a lower quality standard (because we're in a rush or whatever), then a lower quality standard _remains_ acceptable. Change won't begin until we demand it

[@1602parag]

It is time we know how to do the basic service at home, like oil and filter changes, break servicing, tyre care. Only major services at the stations should be done. That is how you can maintain a balance. Labour these days isn't cheap and value for money is a distant dream.

[@motorinc]

Labour is still cheap and that's the real problem. Labour is cheap means people are getting paid less. Pay less and they won't respect their own work.

[@shawnh4528]

I paid 15k for my service for my D390 for complete replacement of spares. Still I have another 5k expense remaining for replacement of a new slipper clutch. Sadly I do not know if they really changed the spares for the price I paid.

[@ponagantijashwanth5056]

Im planning to buy a bike, but I'm confused between r15, classic 350. Im a student and i want to use that bike for long time. I like r15 but im a long ride guy who likes to travel long atleast 2 times a year... I mean really long like Hyderabad to ladakh like so Please suggest me a bike

[@shebz7]

Absolutely agree on each point - simple funda of life You get what You pay for - One point i want to add is that having a honest - repectful and open relationships with the service center people will go a long way when they work on your machine. I have had great conversation on motorcycles and the quality of the engines etc with Honda Bigwing mechanics and other people who are there to get their vehicles serviced. Even after me asking obvious question to which the answers i will provide myself while one of their staff works on my bike they always are interested in you and your vehicle becase you are thankfull for their efforts and give them the respect without faking it . Most of the people who crib about authorised service centers come from the entitlement that i paid xyz amount for my bike / car and hence i deserved to be treated like a king and whenever i walk in they need to start working on my machines and charge me less even if the parts cost a fixed amount and service charges are usually around 200- 300 rs on each thing. I have spoken to some customers there and some are very proud to tell i got this done from here and it was cheaper and here in official service center they charge more blah blah - overall they saved 3k-5k in a year on a 2.5 lacs bike. That much you spend on zomato swiggy orders as shumi mentioned in a month / weekend. Be a good human being and everything will fall in place. Big shoutout to Khalid bhai the star mechanic from Chattarpur New Delhi who has worked on my previous bike brilliantly and is a genuinely a great human being while being a skilled mechanic.

[@motorinc]

Yes! Exactly right! Be a good human being and everything will fall in place.

[@jubinjoseph3153]

Couldn't agree more! Personally, I just got my Royal Enfield Hunter 350 out after the first service and as a keen person I stuck around the service center whilst the service was going on. What I observed is the technicians are not really experienced with the ins and outs of the motorcycle and hence use our bikes to gain that! Felt like I could've done a better job if I had the right tools! So, I returned home, bought a nice toolkit and let's see!

[@motorinc]

Yup! Exactly!

[@rohitmuni457]

Hey folks at motorinc. Can you guys please make a video on how to maintain bike during rains. What additional care does a bike need during rain, from bike covers to lubrication etc. Thanks 🙂

[@segisjourney]

Sir recommend me best bike for highways touring and in city commuter under 2 Lakhs please

[@akhilkaval]

Watched this as i am waiting to get my CB 350 serviced at an authorised service centre. Totally agree with your point of view. Skilled mechanics need to be developed and appreciated a lot more .. For me, Thank you @kyffscustoms for taking such good care of my motorcycles 😄

[@motorinc]

Can we ask you to thank your favourite mechanics in the pinned comment? There's a thread forming that might someone who lives where you do find a better workshop and mechanic

[@vinaysindhe]

Coming from an automotive RD background, the issue runs much much deeper. Take any bike or car. It takes around 4 yrs to develop, from a sketch to production. In these 4 yrs, 1000's of engineers and management people are being paid and after launch, a customer wont even return to buy ur product for the next 5-8 yrs. And also, the OEM is oblidged to provide service for 10 yrs or so after launching a product. Auto industry is and never will be a money making industry. So the system is what it is - we auto enginers in RD too are paid less in comparison with other domains.

[@unnamedstan5006]

This is a perfect video. And the reason I don’t mind paying extra. I have noticed that because of so many influencers, an average guy goes to a mechanic with a suspicion that he will always be ripped off. And in order to save in short term we spend a bomb in long run! We must accept that mechanic knows the bike much better than us

[@motorinc]

Don't accept.... see if they do! And if they do, then they must have the respect that deserves

[@unnamedstan5006]

@@motorinc absolutely !

[@user-wi8dx8ry6m]

One question regarding this...Just took delivery of CB350 RS and it is suggested to dont push engine in early days for say till first service . Is it required for New engines in todyas world ?

[@motorinc]

Sort of. It's okay if you follow it and if you don't, the chances that you'll damage the engine aren't great anymore either

[@pavithraghav6309]

@shumi.. You've made some excellent points! It's absolutely right and spot on! The poor or bad service of vehicles can primarily be attributed to two factors: the inadequate earnings of mechanics and the lack of appreciation they receive. One of the major challenges lies outside the system, as there are only a handful of skilled mechanics who possess the necessary expertise to accurately diagnose and fix vehicle issues. However, this challenge is expected to gradually diminish over time. In the meantime, it's crucial to strike a balance between relying on the system and seeking help from skilled professionals outside it. Moreover, as enthusiastic and proud owners of our machines, it is essential to familiarize ourselves with the components and functioning of our vehicles. Understanding the root causes of problems, at least to a certain extent, allows us to communicate effectively with mechanics. By being on the same page and comprehending the steps taken to resolve issues, we become better equipped to address similar problems independently, should they arise again.

[@motorinc]

To the last point, if the mechanic's good, you may not need to be so detail oriented... 😊 To the rest, in every field of work, there will be a small number of extraordinarily skilled people and a large base of decent or poorly skilled people. You know how cream rises to the top? There's a reason why we say there's an ocean of milk, but never say that about cream 😆

[@pavithraghav6309]

Rightly said...😊 Just got to spend sometime to find the right quality mechanic.. And once found hold on to him or her...😅

[@ranjitkamansingh5361]

Wow...ths guy never fails to give quality content on automobiles..shumi🙌👌❤

[@motorinc]

Thanks a ton

[@rakesh3967]

At last someone has touched on this subject this way. Brilliant 🎉

[@motorinc]

Thanks Rakesh!

[@neilston100]

Any recommendations for premium bike service in Bangalore? Cause google is not helping.

[@motorinc]

Pinned comment!

[@prajyoththota4288]

Eye opening stuff, any suggestions for two wheeler and 4 wheeler garages in Hyderabad?

[@roydengomes8660]

Here’s to all the mechanics out there who, despite all the hardships that the job throws at them, continue to service our machines. They are the real MVPs. 😊

[@motorinc]

6000%

[@arkaghosh2857]

I agree with this whole-heartedly. The mechanics at the Honda showroom {I own a premium commuter from Honda) work 6-7 days a week and the service charge is only marginally better than peanuts. The mechanic outside of the network I go to rightfully charges more than what a Honda Authorized Service Centre does but it's still not nearly as much as it should be. And he also refuses to be over-payed which leaves a bitter taste in the mouth because someone who is so passionate about motorcycles, big or small, and who tries to (and succeeds in) repairing a machine is not getting the money he deserves. I overpay and leave before he realizes, and I was taught this by the person who got me into motorcycling. However, not everyone will have that empathy to do so or have that knowledge or advice be shared with them, and I hope this video does the job.

[@motorinc]

We hope so too! Thank you for doing your part!

[@Thinkerzmusic]

I appreciate and agree to every word you ve said here...

[@motorinc]

Thank you!

[@HarshKumar-tr7ch]

It would be great if Shumi or someone from the team can tell us some good mechanics/workshops in major cities in India, because as much as I despise getting my bike serviced from the dealer, I personally find it very hard to trust a random mechanic with my baby, added to that is that I don’t have as many friends/contacts who can help me with the same. So if we got some names for mechanics across cities it would really help us I guess. Just a thought.

[@motorinc]

Pinned comment!

[@HarshKumar-tr7ch]

Ah shit I'm blind😂

[@dharmendradewasi3267]

​@@motorincplease do it.

[@shrivatsavs]

Thats a whole different point of view which very few have known/thought about.... This will definitely change the way we interact with mechanics in future. But the challenge remains same as as both the customer and mechanics must respect each other. For a commuter bike, customer should be ready to pay additional 20-30 % more for labor and mechanics must make sure they provide good service for the additional premium.

[@motorinc]

Yes. But the you-first game's been played to little effect for a long time now... so we say let's change it up. Let us, the customers, say we-first and respect them and see if that works better (we think it will!)

[@shrivatsavs]

@@motorinc Totally agree with your view point. I have played a "We first" role with one of the new multi brand service center in bangalore and it worked very well for me for the initial couple of services. But later when the garage starts getting more attention/bikes, again the quality is deteriorated with premium service charges. I have not given up on them though and trying to give constant feedback to them. Nevertheless, keep up such videos/topics coming through.... I really miss the ThisConnect sessions for sure. Can we bring it back with 30 mins of length?

[@natramilm8922]

On point. Agreed 💯 🙌🙌. Few things doing by ourself gives much more satisfaction, may not be everyone’s cup of tea.

[@motorinc]

It's a matter of time. We come from a culture where the availability of cheap labour means we associate working with our hands as a lowering of status, as it were. This is changing already and with time, the change will spread. But when a ship as large as India changes direction, it makes a big slow turn and it's not always obvious that is, in fact, changing direction

[@natramilm8922]

@@motorinc yep!! Hope we reaches there soon 🤞

[@karthikjayakumar9211]

I agree but a question though, How do i identify these garages? I am happy to pay extra for servicing my car and bike, provided i get a too notch service. How do I find these people?

[@Aditya_Picaro]

+1

[@henry6782]

There is always a bike enthusiast in a friend group... or atleast you know someone who's really into bikes. They always know someone😂😂😂

[@ShivanshuSJC]

Let me know if you find someone in Delhi

[@motorinc]

There are mechanics being thanked already in the pinned comments on this video.... add yours! Other people who live where you may find that useful!

[@audesai]

I so much agree with agenda highlighted here... I have mechanic for my RE, another set of mechanics for my Safari and Gypsy... and the unmolested stock still in warranty Venue goes to the service center... LOL

[@motorinc]

Thanks for sharing!