The way you do business, in an honest straightforward fashion is an example of how a motorcycle shops should work. Now your only in for $9500 you should black all the chrome out. It'll sell for a lot more money cause it'll be the baddest Rune on the planet.
@Gray I'm not well versed in chrome (Just picked up a 2003 Honda Valkyrie that's my first bike with any chrome ever - period) but I'm sure you could sandblast away the chrome, which is done before power coating anyway to ensure proper adhesion. Surely it wouldn't cost that much extra.
Also seconding the fact that you should black out/powdercoat the chrome. They even do Chrome powder coating now, though it is more expensive. It would look unique and cool all blacked out, and there are people out there who aren't a fan of chrome. I'm sure most would prefer a well sorted, blacked out Rune than a bubbly chrome one. You'd likely make your money back depending on the cost, and it would be more presentable.
@@SqueakyNeb Unfortunately since the Rune is a collector's bike, most mods end up devaluing it for resale. Also it you take the metal parts to be rechromed to a showerhead factory they can do the job for very little and in a single day. Their acid and chrome baths are the size of swimming pools.
My cousin in the Bronx rode to purchase a bike from SRK, Sean actually spoke and dealt with my cousin . He still has that monster ride today and Sean told my cousin to flat bed it home and EVEN offered to take it. My stubborn cousin rode it home and he is a “ Rugged type” of guy and told anyone that would listen to go to SRK and buy a bike. Honest good hearted guys. Really nice to hear from a hardcore biker that wears a patch. SRK is in fact a good place to purchase from.
I bought a bike from you years ago, back when you had the small setup. you guys are great and i will be giving you my business in the future! Hard to find someone who's as honest as you and its nice to have a prayer before you leave after receiving the bike. I'm sure it kept me safe on my 2014 R1!
That's a tough one,. While I can appreciate your honesty when selling the Rune, I feel like if they didn't watch the video or read the description on what they were bidding on before bidding that's on them, especially if your add told them to do both before hand.
ive been watching for awhile, this video made me subscribe. you guys seem to always go that extra mile because you care; you could have stuffed that bike off on the other dealer or the first guy that bought it on ebay... but you didn't force it when it would have left them out in the cold, that really demonstrates character.
All the way from the U.K. just wanted to say that I love watching your videos! At the moment I’m making my mind up on getting a motorcycle! And with every video I find myself more in love with idea of buying my first bike! Thank you guys for the content you bring to the table!
I totally agree with this comment. I've watched a number of their videos and one thing has jumped out at me...these guys are good, honest dudes. It's hard to find that these days and it will be the reason why their business will continue to thrive and grow. Also, I like the faith based culture...that never hurts.
Pay attention. "True" Christians do business this way; their faith dictates it. Their faith is in the Almighty, not the almighty dollar. It makes a difference in people. Matthew 6:33.
Great video gentlemen! Great story, great business ethics. Last summer I bought a Rune right here in my home town of Anchorage Alaska with 22K miles, amazing condition. Then I realized it was serial number 12! $14,700. Your video reaffirms that this was a solid buy. No shipping charges as it was local. Keep up the good work. Find and make a video about the early 80’s turbo bikes!!
Holy chrome what a saga. Seeing the honesty about your sometimes imperfect process makes me trust you all as a dealership that's trying your best to make things right every time. When this pandemic business is up I want to ride up and pay a visit. I was shopping for a bike recently and watched your inventory for a while. Next time I'm in the market you're on my list.
Holy smokes! I'm exhausted from listening to all the problems.. To preface my remarks, I'm gonna say you sound like one of the most honest people I've ever come across and I'd trust you with my checkbook. Having said that, I'm blown away with how these titles on used 'anythings' can be so much trouble. I recently drove 3 hrs to pick up a bike from a very nice dealer. I was super pumped to get the bike and they were the nicest people to deal with BUT... as I stood in the office with a certified check and they took it and THEN told me they were waiting for the title search to come back, I suddenly felt that sick feeling when you just can't believe that someone didn't tell you something very important. I was flabbergasted! They explained to me that it was not unusual for this to happen and that everything would be fine and that they would send it to me next week when they got it. WOW! I'm not experienced with this stuff and still don't understand why they let me drive 3 hours to pick up the bike without telling me about the title search. What was I supposed to do? Drive all the way back home and then rent the trailer again and drive back the following week?? So, I listened to them reassure me and took the bike but I felt like they should have told me before I drove 3 hrs to buy the bike. It all worked out just like they said it would and I'm very happy with the bike but still, I think the dealer has an obligation to have the title search done and a clean title in their hands before they let a customer take the bike or car or whatever. To me it could have been a big problem if that search didn't come back clean.
Last year I bought a Rune from a buddy who’d emigrated to Spain. He’d owned it from new since 2008 and had done only 4,600 miles but he did tell me it was suffering from BBS (big black smoke). This turned out to be not that serious but did take a long time to fix as parts are hard to get from the States to the UK. So for about $12,000 I’ve got a very little used beautiful Rune....the post script is that today, I went for the first proper ride out post Corona lockdown and I get a friggin puncture!
I'm a blaster for a industrial metal fab/powdercoater, and I've been very lucky removing or just scuffing chrome that has been exposed and has started growing zinc buds (my name for the condition) I've had the (mis?) fortune of cleaning up the chrome on a lot of Harley parts that were chromed in China. I blast them with medium fine glass at about 65-75 psi with the metering valve set about 5 full turns on my Clemco pot. The trick is to not stay in one area too long and dig into the metal under the buds, just scuff the chrome and remove the buds. If there's a thick coat of powder primer applied before the color, you can fool the eye unless you have an observer that is looking for the flaws.
I cannot believe you are sticking up for the dealer you bought it from. They are shysters that basically screwed you over on the price of it then screwed you over on the title.
Eric Dolby this is the truest comment on here so far. As I was watching I was thinking the same thing. Even legally they shouldn’t be able to keep the money. Easy win in court but I see the bigger picture here. He’s definitely going to make money on this bike in the end.
@@Artburg These guys did the right thing all the way around. Nice to meet truly honest people that know the true meaning of customer service Thanks Sean and everyone at SRK
@@kfstreich4787 definitely not. The original seller picked this thing up dirt cheap. Plus these Runes sell all day long for 14k in excellent condition. This one was a turd. It probably should have been salvaged out.
I gotta say, the more I see your transparency in honesty in your business dealings, the more I want to shop with you. Heck, I may someday invest in your business lol .. God Bless... I wish everyone we encountered in life was like you, just trying to do right by others and yourself.
Also how exactly is Bikes & Beards “amazingly honest” huh? They literally didn’t post the chrome problem on eBay or else the first buyer would’ve known the issue.......
It was great of you to make sure these bidders understood what they were paying for. Honesty is so rare. Especially for online. God bless and keep up the good work!
You are an honest businessman. Don't be in a hurry to sell it. I think you can wait for the proper customer . Keep it there. If bikes with 5k are being sold for 25 k someone will pay that too for yours. It's a cult bike so it will continuously will keep going up in value. Keep it.
U r doing the Lord's work Sean/Shaun. Even if the Rune project doesn't work out, u know something or a group of somethings will. Solid business practices always yield positive benefits, in the end.
I wish all dealerships were as honest and thoughtful as you guys.brilliant if anybody out there needs a great deal on a bike you like.Go to these guys.God bless you
IMHO - Get the chrome fixed and turn the situation into an amazing story from when its was originally purchased right through to the current situation again. Put the price up to cover your costs plus a little for profit for the repairs and I can guarantee you that someone WILL buy it. These things are so rare now and such a collectable item that someone with money will want to buy it. Not sure if Keanu Reeves has one but perhaps reach out to him as he LOVES his motorbikes and probably one of the most generous dudes around. This bike deserves the love back that its missed and should have been given. You guys are amazing and if you were based in Australia you'd have a huge following and sales going through the roof. We love honest down to earth sales people but struggle to find them here in Aus.
@@jediknight1294 The cost of re-chroming is irrelevant in this particular situation. It's about the restoration of a beautiful and rare machine. No different to restoring vintage or hot rod cars which goes into thousands and thousands of dollars. You can't leave this machine the way it is and continue to let it deteriorate otherwise you may as well tear it down for parts now. Not something that should be done to this beautiful machine. Someone with $$ will buy it if they reached out to people considering how rare it is as well as the story behind it. Even an auction with some of the money donated to charity is likely to go very well and the money for re-chroming would more than likely be recouped. There are plenty of wealthy motorcycle enthusiasts out there that simply wouldn't know that this specific motorcycle and it's story even exists. The word just needs to get out about it.
I saw a honda rune for the first time today and I followed him for a few miles trying to figure out what bike it was. I'm not a cruiser guy but that bike makes me think of big fender curvy cars from the 30s it's really a cool bike
Good job on explaining everything that happened with the bike, what a pain in the butt, I totally respect your honestly, would buy a bike from you guys without hesitation.
With your business ethic and excellent content I suspect both your TH-cam channel and brick and mortar business will continue to grow. You will make money on this Rune in the end and we all learned a few things along the way.
Absolutely love all your videos, somehow I always end up binge watching your videos. I live in NEPA around Scranton and have to make a trip down one day.
Everybody sees how much you will go out of your way to satisfy your customers. I have been trying to keep up with your inventory. I am watching for the right bike. Your prices are great and your customer service goes far above and beyond. I have been telling everyone I can about you guys. God bless ya"ll and thanks for the videos.
I like that this guy cares about his integrity more than money. That's how my Dad taught me to do business. You didn't lose the most important thing you have. ~ Your Honour ~ !
Agreed, I hate dealerships with a passion. Feel like the only true one is BNB. When I went to get my current car they I said hey I wanna book an viewing and shit came up so I said alright I will come day after. They told me it was cleaned ready everything week before. I got to the place and they say oh I can’t find the car hour later it’s in the shop. We tell them we’ll pull it out even if it’s dirty and etc. turns out the whole rear bumper taillight was damaged etc. their excuse was the transporter damaged it getting it off. The damage doesn’t look like anything such. It got to a pissing match and we said fix the damage oem spec and we will buy it. Got the car for 33-35k and I look closely and can see they did a half ass job. They only replaced the light and the shroud for the light, bumper, and bumper clips were still damaged and the lines were off by a key length space. To top it off we went through 5ish ppl who kept trying to say this is the lowest price and it was just coworkers who are “managers” and the owner of the place walked by as we knew him and he lowered the price. They first gave a price of like 43, I said bs the ad is 36ish, with this damage I will say it’s worth 33 and we for around to 34ish. Regardless we got the car way cheaper then they usually go for. It’s a 2016 A6, prestige (fully loaded) for 35k. Msrp 75-80k imgur.com/a/sQbtdK0 Fuck dealerships with a passion, I will pay a price that you can profit so long as you tell me every flaw like BNB does
Seems that the Original Honda dealership that bought the Rune for only $1500 dollars would have some kind of legal requirement to SRK Cycles to provide a title. Either way legal or not its is just bad business to leave the "customer" who gave you $9500 dollars in profit hanging without a title. Shame on Honda PowerSports of Crofton.
@Mathew Kendell That was them? The quick glimpse when they bought the rune didn't look familiar to me but I haven't been there in about 15 years. Back then they had just opened between the north and southbound sides of route 3. I remember they had a rune back then. Only ever bought a helmet from them. I feel so old, good dealers I remember have been gone for decades, absorbed by bigger dealerships and/or become "powersports" or "motorsports" dealers. So few dealers were ever any good or trustworthy in MD from my experience.
Hi. Just want to say it is great to see that you gave money back, that was amazing and the right thing to do morally ! SHOWS WHAT TYPE OF PERSON AND BUSINESS YOU ARE, VERY NICE! The dealer that sold you the bike, no integrity, they put money over doing the right thing. I know this will turn out great for you. Honesty and doing the right things in life and people knowing this about you and your company will bring you more than money ever can! Great job, much respect! Good to see! Cheers from Canada
I would also suggest a letter to Honda to let them know this story along with copies of this video. I am sure they would love to hear about it. This could be good for you as well as them, again God Bless.
The water leaking that caused the damage thing reminded me of a friend who once (to store it over the winter) put a chlorine vat for his pool in the back yard storage garage with his Harley collection... He went there the following spring, to get the chlorine and, do to the off gassing alone, ALL 7 Harley's were totaled... All the chrome; dead, all the plastics and rubber; dead, all iron; rust dead, even some of the stainless steal parts had corrosion... huge loss. brutally tragic...
I live in the UK but enjoy watching your vlogs. There are a few 'plonkers' on ebay but most are very decent people thankfully. You are an excellent human being Shaun. Excellent.
So was it bought with cash or was it financed, that is a question and that is where the title should be, it sounds like to me that the original owner never had the title in the first place and the bike and may have been "hidden" . Now granted I live 20 minutes away from Chicago it's not easy to get the paperwork all at once and it will take time,but the Honda dealer should have been able to find a title to that Honda, unbelievable and I'm sorry you guys had to go through that
@Rogue Farmer -Remember Morris Gauger's barns? Lots of cash, lots of bikes. Wrung out a few of them on road tests for Morri, back in the day. I will always recall a sign over his shop desk. "Be sure brain is in gear, before engaging mouth".. :)
I have always liked the Rune’s. Had the opportunity to ride one when they first came out,got attention wherever I went. If it was me I would black it out with a little bit of chrome. Just saying!
I had a construction client with a 1 of 1 bike from a startup in LA, he spec’d it exactly as he wanted it, it turned out to be the only bike they ever actually delivered. He had a collection of beautiful Honda Sprees…this man is a millionaire many times over, and loves Honda sprees, early HiLux pickups and the Grateful Dead. He was definitely the one customer I ever vibed with the most.
I love the Rune. I remember when I first heard of the rune after seeing an older valkyrie one day and deciding to look it up because I thought it was such a good looking bike. I'm basically a Harley guy all the way but if I could afford it I'd get a rune or a valkyrie.
Just bought a Valkyrie with 18k miles on it. Got the deal of a lifetime - $2k USD. Minor wear and tear except for a dented tank, but mechanically mint. I love it, and I honestly prefer it to the Rune but I'm not a flashy chrome guy.
Francisco Anaya really liked these guys and thought the same thing. I called, left a text (because their voicemail said don’t leave a voicemail (pretty funny)) and didn’t get contacted back. Was looking for a Honda VTX 1800 because these guys had me fall in love with it. No answer back from them and then a week later, bought one elsewhere. Will give them another chance, but would’ve really liked a call back.
Wow what a colossal cluster ****! The dealer you bought it from should have stepped up, If you pushed the issue with a law suit I bet you would win. But there's nothing wrong with taking the high road, good karma headed your way.
I've said it and I've seen many people say it, the integrity, honesty and way you all carry yourselves is almost unbelievable. My credit is finally at 700 and I really want a bike but I know financially it's a bad decision. But next year or possibly this winter I'm taking the drive to PA and buying my bike from you. I've told so many people about your videos and try to not miss a single one myself. I try to treat people I deal with the exact same way as you all do and it doesn't always work but I can live with myself. Thank you for the videos and for being such good people.
Appreciate the honesty and the problems you guys shared. A real look at how business are run. Not just the glamour bits bit the tricky sticky shady side too. good luck.
Hey Sean, the honda dealer you guys picked that bike up from is my local honda dealer. What a small world. I like your project videos and hope to see more.
i just filled out a credit app on your website .... crossing my fingers that i can get that 2006 yamaha r6 ( yellow and blk ) edition bro !!!! love your videos and god bless ... hope one day to meet ya and ride with ya ... im in florida so maybe one day you can roll down here and enjoy the sun , waves and good vibes.... i pray that i can ride a bike that i bought from you
Well powder coating it is still a lot of work because to remove the compromised chrome it needs to be stripped... chrome stripper first then the nickel would have to be stripped and maybe there is a stripper for zinc alloy but I've never heard of it .... then the parts would need a light shot blasting and maybe even sanding if they are pitted .... and then powder coated...... zinc alloy is horrible stuff to paint , electroplate , or powder coat because on old oxidized pieces the corrosion can be very deep and when you seal it with a new finish it can bubble as the corrosion tries to expand ......
as scummy as used car dealers are. used toy dealers are worse. bikes,boats, etc expensive toys, they will fuck you for every penny they can. since they know it's an emotional purchase not a rational one
"collector" accepts $1500 for a 15 grand bike... Hmmm. Seems odd. Dealer that paid 1500 flogs it for 10500 with no legal paperwork... Hmmm a pair of crooks dealing in a crooked motor I suspect.
Wow. I use to own the exact same one same color no chrome ring. I bought mine at the honda dealer in Hollywood, Los Angeles in 2004. I went to the dealer to service my 2002 Honda VTX 1800 and surprise 3 Rune was on display. One blue one black and the black red one. I ask the dealer if the black was for sale. The black was sold to George Clooney and the blue to someone else. The red was for sale. I didn't hesitate one second. The best bike I have ever owned. I put 13000 miles on it and sold her for the same reason. I used to live in Venice Beach and the bike start to rust. The same problem. I really think the chrome is not good on this bike. Only seven years of ownership. I sold the bike to someone in China for $15000.I still have the book who comes with the bike. The Rune was the only Japonnaise bike respected with the Harley guys.
Make it a collection a v4 fanatic would drool over...... RC30 (VFR750R) RC45 (RVF750R) NR750 (RC40) VFR400R (NC30) RVF400R (NC35) RC213V-S and even a VF1000R to finish out the rarely seen stateside collection.
Man, that is amazing right there. Because for starters the ones who didn't read the desc honestly I would have been like hey I put everything down your dropping 15K on something and didn't read when I spent all the time and effort to let you know, not my problem. The title stuff was crazy but hey you gave the money back which is something I would have been like when the property is back here you will get your money or at least when I have confirmation it is on the truck on its way back here. Still some good honesty and morals right there.
The way you do business, in an honest straightforward fashion is an example of how a motorcycle shops should work. Now your only in for $9500 you should black all the chrome out. It'll sell for a lot more money cause it'll be the baddest Rune on the planet.
@Gray I'm not well versed in chrome (Just picked up a 2003 Honda Valkyrie that's my first bike with any chrome ever - period) but I'm sure you could sandblast away the chrome, which is done before power coating anyway to ensure proper adhesion. Surely it wouldn't cost that much extra.
Also seconding the fact that you should black out/powdercoat the chrome. They even do Chrome powder coating now, though it is more expensive. It would look unique and cool all blacked out, and there are people out there who aren't a fan of chrome. I'm sure most would prefer a well sorted, blacked out Rune than a bubbly chrome one. You'd likely make your money back depending on the cost, and it would be more presentable.
nah, powdercoat gold, THAT'S a bike that stands out.
@@SqueakyNeb Unfortunately since the Rune is a collector's bike, most mods end up devaluing it for resale. Also it you take the metal parts to be rechromed to a showerhead factory they can do the job for very little and in a single day. Their acid and chrome baths are the size of swimming pools.
@@SurmaSampo yea, those are everywhere here in Pa.. lol
My cousin in the Bronx rode to purchase a bike from SRK, Sean actually spoke and dealt with my cousin . He still has that monster ride today and Sean told my cousin to flat bed it home and EVEN offered to take it. My stubborn cousin rode it home and he is a “ Rugged type” of guy and told anyone that would listen to go to SRK and buy a bike. Honest good hearted guys. Really nice to hear from a hardcore biker that wears a patch. SRK is in fact a good place to purchase from.
Props to you guys for trying your best to make it right for everyone, these things don't go unnoticed with all your current and future clientele!
I bought a bike from you years ago, back when you had the small setup. you guys are great and i will be giving you my business in the future! Hard to find someone who's as honest as you and its nice to have a prayer before you leave after receiving the bike. I'm sure it kept me safe on my 2014 R1!
That's a tough one,. While I can appreciate your honesty when selling the Rune, I feel like if they didn't watch the video or read the description on what they were bidding on before bidding that's on them, especially if your add told them to do both before hand.
Exactly!! How ignorant can you be
That is ebay policy, if the faults are clearly listed its not the sellers fault they didn't read it. You can refuse a refund based on this.
Yeah, we've got to stop saving idiots from themselves! If you've been honest and they've chosen to ignore it...that's the buyer's issue, not yours!
I wholeheartedly agree
@@gazpitchy Absolutely, but Sean is a good dude and made the right decision.
ive been watching for awhile, this video made me subscribe. you guys seem to always go that extra mile because you care; you could have stuffed that bike off on the other dealer or the first guy that bought it on ebay... but you didn't force it when it would have left them out in the cold, that really demonstrates character.
All the way from the U.K. just wanted to say that I love watching your videos! At the moment I’m making my mind up on getting a motorcycle! And with every video I find myself more in love with idea of buying my first bike! Thank you guys for the content you bring to the table!
If I need a bike, I would come to you. Honest hard to find these days.
Well thank you
I totally agree with this comment. I've watched a number of their videos and one thing has jumped out at me...these guys are good, honest dudes. It's hard to find that these days and it will be the reason why their business will continue to thrive and grow. Also, I like the faith based culture...that never hurts.
Lmao then you don’t shop often. Not all dealers are crooks.... wake the fuck up
Yeah they seem pretty straight up and not going to mess around.
Pay attention. "True" Christians do business this way; their faith dictates it. Their faith is in the Almighty, not the almighty dollar. It makes a difference in people. Matthew 6:33.
Great video gentlemen! Great story, great business ethics. Last summer I bought a Rune right here in my home town of Anchorage Alaska with 22K miles, amazing condition. Then I realized it was serial number 12! $14,700. Your video reaffirms that this was a solid buy. No shipping charges as it was local.
Keep up the good work. Find and make a video about the early 80’s turbo bikes!!
Y’all are such good honest company
and group of people
This is why I love watching and subscribing to SRK cycles, the honesty is rare and Sean let's us in on all aspects of the happenings.
Holy chrome what a saga. Seeing the honesty about your sometimes imperfect process makes me trust you all as a dealership that's trying your best to make things right every time. When this pandemic business is up I want to ride up and pay a visit. I was shopping for a bike recently and watched your inventory for a while. Next time I'm in the market you're on my list.
I tip my hat to your honesty and diligence in doing the right thing.
You deserve to do well. 👍
Holy smokes! I'm exhausted from listening to all the problems.. To preface my remarks, I'm gonna say you sound like one of the most honest people I've ever come across and I'd trust you with my checkbook.
Having said that, I'm blown away with how these titles on used 'anythings' can be so much trouble. I recently drove 3 hrs to pick up a bike from a very nice dealer. I was super pumped to get the bike and they were the nicest people to deal with BUT... as I stood in the office with a certified check and they took it and THEN told me they were waiting for the title search to come back, I suddenly felt that sick feeling when you just can't believe that someone didn't tell you something very important. I was flabbergasted! They explained to me that it was not unusual for this to happen and that everything would be fine and that they would send it to me next week when they got it. WOW! I'm not experienced with this stuff and still don't understand why they let me drive 3 hours to pick up the bike without telling me about the title search. What was I supposed to do? Drive all the way back home and then rent the trailer again and drive back the following week?? So, I listened to them reassure me and took the bike but I felt like they should have told me before I drove 3 hrs to buy the bike. It all worked out just like they said it would and I'm very happy with the bike but still, I think the dealer has an obligation to have the title search done and a clean title in their hands before they let a customer take the bike or car or whatever. To me it could have been a big problem if that search didn't come back clean.
Last year I bought a Rune from a buddy who’d emigrated to Spain. He’d owned it from new since 2008 and had done only 4,600 miles but he did tell me it was suffering from BBS (big black smoke). This turned out to be not that serious but did take a long time to fix as parts are hard to get from the States to the UK. So for about $12,000 I’ve got a very little used beautiful Rune....the post script is that today, I went for the first proper ride out post Corona lockdown and I get a friggin puncture!
I'm a blaster for a industrial metal fab/powdercoater, and I've been very lucky removing or just scuffing chrome that has been exposed and has started growing zinc buds (my name for the condition) I've had the (mis?) fortune of cleaning up the chrome on a lot of Harley parts that were chromed in China.
I blast them with medium fine glass at about 65-75 psi with the metering valve set about 5 full turns on my Clemco pot. The trick is to not stay in one area too long and dig into the metal under the buds, just scuff the chrome and remove the buds. If there's a thick coat of powder primer applied before the color, you can fool the eye unless you have an observer that is looking for the flaws.
I cannot believe you are sticking up for the dealer you bought it from. They are shysters that basically screwed you over on the price of it then screwed you over on the title.
Eric Dolby this is the truest comment on here so far. As I was watching I was thinking the same thing. Even legally they shouldn’t be able to keep the money. Easy win in court but I see the bigger picture here. He’s definitely going to make money on this bike in the end.
They sold you a bike that they legally had no right to sell.
@@Artburg These guys did the right thing all the way around. Nice to meet truly honest people that know the true meaning of customer service Thanks Sean and everyone at SRK
I thought they screwed the original seller
@@kfstreich4787 definitely not. The original seller picked this thing up dirt cheap. Plus these Runes sell all day long for 14k in excellent condition. This one was a turd. It probably should have been salvaged out.
I gotta say, the more I see your transparency in honesty in your business dealings, the more I want to shop with you.
Heck, I may someday invest in your business lol ..
God Bless... I wish everyone we encountered in life was like you, just trying to do right by others and yourself.
Amazingly honest and nonjudgmental...not too much respect for the dealer who sold you the bike for $10.5K
Cap T exactly why not too much respect for the dealer who sold the bike for $10,500? Just because they scored they have to sell it lower? Stfu
Also how exactly is Bikes & Beards “amazingly honest” huh? They literally didn’t post the chrome problem on eBay or else the first buyer would’ve known the issue.......
Isaac Taylor The selling dealer should have had the title, that’s why.
@@isaactaylor1833 he said they posted it in the item description.
@@cybertug4 id like to see the pics and the details they did post
If I lived in the USA I would have you as my bike dealer, you are genuinely an honest decent guy.
Great video! Your commitment to fairness, honesty and integrity are the reason you company is brought up in a lot of discussions.
It was great of you to make sure these bidders understood what they were paying for. Honesty is so rare. Especially for online. God bless and keep up the good work!
What a nightmare. The dealer you bought it from definitely has integrity issues.
Whoa. I'm blown away. You guys shared your video moneys! I'm glad I'm subscribed. You guys deserve it
You are an honest businessman. Don't be in a hurry to sell it. I think you can wait for the proper customer . Keep it there. If bikes with 5k are being sold for 25 k someone will pay that too for yours. It's a cult bike so it will continuously will keep going up in value. Keep it.
Great video! Your honesty and straightforwardness is refreshing and miles above anything I have ever seen from a motorcycle dealer. Thank you!
Greetings from the UK nice to see such honesty these days
Man, what a honest and terrific guy you are , I subbed and I am a huge fan already
U r doing the Lord's work Sean/Shaun. Even if the Rune project doesn't work out, u know something or a group of somethings will. Solid business practices always yield positive benefits, in the end.
I wish all dealerships were as honest and thoughtful as you guys.brilliant if anybody out there needs a great deal on a bike you like.Go to these guys.God bless you
IMHO - Get the chrome fixed and turn the situation into an amazing story from when its was originally purchased right through to the current situation again. Put the price up to cover your costs plus a little for profit for the repairs and I can guarantee you that someone WILL buy it. These things are so rare now and such a collectable item that someone with money will want to buy it. Not sure if Keanu Reeves has one but perhaps reach out to him as he LOVES his motorbikes and probably one of the most generous dudes around. This bike deserves the love back that its missed and should have been given. You guys are amazing and if you were based in Australia you'd have a huge following and sales going through the roof. We love honest down to earth sales people but struggle to find them here in Aus.
The issue is rechroming is probably 10k
@@jediknight1294 The cost of re-chroming is irrelevant in this particular situation. It's about the restoration of a beautiful and rare machine. No different to restoring vintage or hot rod cars which goes into thousands and thousands of dollars. You can't leave this machine the way it is and continue to let it deteriorate otherwise you may as well tear it down for parts now. Not something that should be done to this beautiful machine. Someone with $$ will buy it if they reached out to people considering how rare it is as well as the story behind it. Even an auction with some of the money donated to charity is likely to go very well and the money for re-chroming would more than likely be recouped. There are plenty of wealthy motorcycle enthusiasts out there that simply wouldn't know that this specific motorcycle and it's story even exists. The word just needs to get out about it.
Remember, 200miles on the odometer. Bring high price to the right buyer in the end. It's not me though, lol.
it is always a joy to find an honest man. u may have lost money on the rune but ur credibility and willingness to make things right is priceless.
For quick resale I'd go the Paint it Black route unless re-chroming is cheaper. For long term collector value originality is best.
I saw a honda rune for the first time today and I followed him for a few miles trying to figure out what bike it was. I'm not a cruiser guy but that bike makes me think of big fender curvy cars from the 30s it's really a cool bike
Interesting on how it worked out by showing everyone how honest you are you just built up your customer buying Base 🙏
Good job on explaining everything that happened with the bike, what a pain in the butt, I totally respect your honestly, would buy a bike from you guys without hesitation.
With your business ethic and excellent content I suspect both your TH-cam channel and brick and mortar business will continue to grow. You will make money on this Rune in the end and we all learned a few things along the way.
Wow. Gotta give you guys credit for calling the top two bidders,and being honest with them. That's refreshing. Thank you. God bless you guys.
Absolutely love all your videos, somehow I always end up binge watching your videos. I live in NEPA around Scranton and have to make a trip down one day.
Hats off to you for standing behind your sale to the dealership in Chicago. Shady that the dealership you bought it from wouldn't do the same.
An incompetent government agency??!? A sleazy car dealership?!? Well that’s a shocking turn of events.
It was all down to this guy who didn't cross the T's & dot the I's when he was in a rush to give the dealership a 600% profit......unbelievable!
Everybody sees how much you will go out of your way to satisfy your customers. I have been trying to keep up with your inventory. I am watching for the right bike. Your prices are great and your customer service goes far above and beyond. I have been telling everyone I can about you guys. God bless ya"ll and thanks for the videos.
Honest business is the way to go. Good call on your part. Great show too. Always enjoy watching. Very informative.
I have not seen this kind of honesty ever , hats off to you sir . When i start my own car/bike lot i will try to fallow these honest steps
As the old saying goes. CHEAP IS EXPENSIVE!!!
Old japanese say "Yasumono kai no Zeni usinai" it means losing money for cheap goods.
Tom. Very cool quote. Thanks for the share. Will definitely be using it.
I like that this guy cares about his integrity more than money. That's how my Dad taught me to do business. You didn't lose the most important thing you have.
~ Your Honour ~ !
You are always honest with all your rides. I m sure you'll make a profit at the end. But it sure was an unfortunate tale.
Wish you best of luck.
Dude…You have the best tales of woe. You always deal honorably, and make your Father proud.
I wouldn't buy a bike from the dealership you bought that one from.
Agreed, I hate dealerships with a passion. Feel like the only true one is BNB. When I went to get my current car they I said hey I wanna book an viewing and shit came up so I said alright I will come day after. They told me it was cleaned ready everything week before. I got to the place and they say oh I can’t find the car hour later it’s in the shop. We tell them we’ll pull it out even if it’s dirty and etc. turns out the whole rear bumper taillight was damaged etc. their excuse was the transporter damaged it getting it off. The damage doesn’t look like anything such. It got to a pissing match and we said fix the damage oem spec and we will buy it. Got the car for 33-35k and I look closely and can see they did a half ass job. They only replaced the light and the shroud for the light, bumper, and bumper clips were still damaged and the lines were off by a key length space. To top it off we went through 5ish ppl who kept trying to say this is the lowest price and it was just coworkers who are “managers” and the owner of the place walked by as we knew him and he lowered the price. They first gave a price of like 43, I said bs the ad is 36ish, with this damage I will say it’s worth 33 and we for around to 34ish.
Regardless we got the car way cheaper then they usually go for. It’s a 2016 A6, prestige (fully loaded) for 35k. Msrp 75-80k
imgur.com/a/sQbtdK0
Fuck dealerships with a passion, I will pay a price that you can profit so long as you tell me every flaw like BNB does
Seems that the Original Honda dealership that bought the Rune for only $1500 dollars would have some kind of legal requirement to SRK Cycles to provide a title. Either way legal or not its is just bad business to leave the "customer" who gave you $9500 dollars in profit hanging without a title. Shame on Honda PowerSports of Crofton.
@Mathew Kendell That was them? The quick glimpse when they bought the rune didn't look familiar to me but I haven't been there in about 15 years. Back then they had just opened between the north and southbound sides of route 3. I remember they had a rune back then. Only ever bought a helmet from them. I feel so old, good dealers I remember have been gone for decades, absorbed by bigger dealerships and/or become "powersports" or "motorsports" dealers. So few dealers were ever any good or trustworthy in MD from my experience.
@@mathewkendell9056 depends how it was sold if 'as is' then their SOL
Kudo's for your honesty and allowing bidders who were not aware of the bikes actual condition to opt out. That speaks volumes for you integrity.
You guys are awesome , great story about the mighty rune
Hi. Just want to say it is great to see that you gave money back, that was amazing and the right thing to do morally ! SHOWS WHAT TYPE OF PERSON AND BUSINESS YOU ARE, VERY NICE! The dealer that sold you the bike, no integrity, they put money over doing the right thing. I know this will turn out great for you. Honesty and doing the right things in life and people knowing this about you and your company will bring you more than money ever can! Great job, much respect! Good to see! Cheers from Canada
Thank you. I thought it was the right and fair thing to do also.
Fascinating. I'd love to ride one. I rode a VTX 1800 for years. Now on a Road King :) Blessings brother.
Like how he goes through his YT scores rather than treating them like they’re level 5 top secret. Sounds like a very straight forward yt’r. Love it 🤘
Just a suggestion, pick up a sponsor for your channel and have it refitted. You guys are awesome, God Bless!
I would also suggest a letter to Honda to let them know this story along with copies of this video. I am sure they would love to hear about it. This could be good for you as well as them, again God Bless.
Ooooowwwwww good idea
The water leaking that caused the damage thing reminded me of a friend who once (to store it over the winter) put a chlorine vat for his pool in the back yard storage garage with his Harley collection... He went there the following spring, to get the chlorine and, do to the off gassing alone, ALL 7 Harley's were totaled...
All the chrome; dead, all the plastics and rubber; dead, all iron; rust dead, even some of the stainless steal parts had corrosion...
huge loss. brutally tragic...
it was Runed!
Favor always follows honesty! Thanks for staying true to principles!
Did you get your straps back? Just wondering! Love the vids dudes! Keep it up!
Nope
I live in the UK but enjoy watching your vlogs. There are a few 'plonkers' on ebay but most are very decent people thankfully. You are an excellent human being Shaun. Excellent.
Here in SW Florida they are selling for less than $14k in excellent condition. Must be a geographical thing.
How many though? There's next to NONE out there.
The big guy loves to test his kids Sean.thanks for the content your channel is pure positivity.
So was it bought with cash or was it financed, that is a question and that is where the title should be, it sounds like to me that the original owner never had the title in the first place and the bike and may have been "hidden" . Now granted I live 20 minutes away from Chicago it's not easy to get the paperwork all at once and it will take time,but the Honda dealer should have been able to find a title to that Honda, unbelievable and I'm sorry you guys had to go through that
@Rogue Farmer -Remember Morris Gauger's barns? Lots of cash, lots of bikes. Wrung out a few of them on road tests for Morri, back in the day. I will always recall a sign over his shop desk. "Be sure brain is in gear, before engaging mouth".. :)
I admire you being so calm and collected about this whole saga! I would have freaked out! Good luck with the rest of the story!
Look at the fleet behind him. Taking a hit sucks, ALWAYS, but I think dude is doing alright for himself.
I have always liked the Rune’s. Had the opportunity to ride one when they first came out,got attention wherever I went. If it was me I would black it out with a little bit of chrome. Just saying!
I had a construction client with a 1 of 1 bike from a startup in LA, he spec’d it exactly as he wanted it, it turned out to be the only bike they ever actually delivered. He had a collection of beautiful Honda Sprees…this man is a millionaire many times over, and loves Honda sprees, early HiLux pickups and the Grateful Dead. He was definitely the one customer I ever vibed with the most.
I love the Rune. I remember when I first heard of the rune after seeing an older valkyrie one day and deciding to look it up because I thought it was such a good looking bike. I'm basically a Harley guy all the way but if I could afford it I'd get a rune or a valkyrie.
Just bought a Valkyrie with 18k miles on it. Got the deal of a lifetime - $2k USD. Minor wear and tear except for a dented tank, but mechanically mint. I love it, and I honestly prefer it to the Rune but I'm not a flashy chrome guy.
@@Hey_Its_Yosh Quit bragging. 😉 Great find though. What year is it?
@@mute8s 2003 :D
@@Hey_Its_Yosh nice :)
I really respect the integrity of you guys. So many peoole would have loved to have pawned that bike off on someone who didnt know it wasnt perfect
Cool video guys! That Rune made for a good series of video's!
Really big respect to you guys! I would buy any day a bike from you! U have big heart! God bless you
Great video guys, 1500 BUCKS! now that's a bargain.
May as well say that he gave it away.
The first guy was actually stuck with it. Really nice of you to be honest and let him back out.
I love the channel! Im planning on buying my first bike, and im planning on buying from you guys
Thank you
He could make you a good deal on a Rune
Francisco Anaya really liked these guys and thought the same thing. I called, left a text (because their voicemail said don’t leave a voicemail (pretty funny)) and didn’t get contacted back. Was looking for a Honda VTX 1800 because these guys had me fall in love with it. No answer back from them and then a week later, bought one elsewhere. Will give them another chance, but would’ve really liked a call back.
love you bro , you are one rare earth, true to heart , truthful , heartful , down to earth person . I hope you have a million kids.
Had a 2006 VTX 1800 the zinc on the rims did the same thing Honda's chrome 🤭
You guys are awesome, thank you for being honest! Most people would’ve lied and sold the bike for 15k...
Wow what a colossal cluster ****! The dealer you bought it from should have stepped up, If you pushed the issue with a law suit I bet you would win. But there's nothing wrong with taking the high road, good karma headed your way.
Super honest guy, seems rare these days. God bless you 👊🏼
Woooow
What a cluster 🦆
Honest
Your the Best
Best of luck
I've said it and I've seen many people say it, the integrity, honesty and way you all carry yourselves is almost unbelievable. My credit is finally at 700 and I really want a bike but I know financially it's a bad decision. But next year or possibly this winter I'm taking the drive to PA and buying my bike from you. I've told so many people about your videos and try to not miss a single one myself. I try to treat people I deal with the exact same way as you all do and it doesn't always work but I can live with myself. Thank you for the videos and for being such good people.
What an unfortunate headache. Surely will workout in the end.
I’m sure it will
I really love your videos thank you for sharing your thoughts and suggestions
And the one thing I really enjoy about the videos very descriptive
Always honest Thank You -Great Company
Appreciate the honesty and the problems you guys shared. A real look at how business are run. Not just the glamour bits bit the tricky sticky shady side too. good luck.
Neat backstory and end story.
But it’s not over yet
@@BikesandBeards so what up with the ol girl now
Hey Sean, the honda dealer you guys picked that bike up from is my local honda dealer. What a small world. I like your project videos and hope to see more.
I've never seen one of these, but that thing is hideous. Must be a hate it or love it thing. Great video, though
i just filled out a credit app on your website .... crossing my fingers that i can get that 2006 yamaha r6 ( yellow and blk ) edition bro !!!! love your videos and god bless ... hope one day to meet ya and ride with ya ... im in florida so maybe one day you can roll down here and enjoy the sun , waves and good vibes.... i pray that i can ride a bike that i bought from you
At least now you know not to deal with these guy's again and so does the rest of future motorcycle buyers
what a fantastically honest man you are, you should be proud.
Insurance for damage. It probably was a total loss
Well powder coating it is still a lot of work because to remove the compromised chrome it needs to be stripped... chrome stripper first then the nickel would have to be stripped and maybe there is a stripper for zinc alloy but I've never heard of it .... then the parts would need a light shot blasting and maybe even sanding if they are pitted .... and then powder coated...... zinc alloy is horrible stuff to paint , electroplate , or powder coat because on old oxidized pieces the corrosion can be very deep and when you seal it with a new finish it can bubble as the corrosion tries to expand ......
considering the original dealer only spent $1500 on the bike idk why they wont work with you makes no sense.
as scummy as used car dealers are. used toy dealers are worse. bikes,boats, etc expensive toys, they will fuck you for every penny they can. since they know it's an emotional purchase not a rational one
Hey great video myself I have all 16 Honda Valkyrie not quite as cool as a ruin but what a fantastic power Cruiser Wish I Had It years years ago
"collector" accepts $1500 for a 15 grand bike... Hmmm. Seems odd. Dealer that paid 1500 flogs it for 10500 with no legal paperwork... Hmmm a pair of crooks dealing in a crooked motor I suspect.
Wow. I use to own the exact same one same color no chrome ring. I bought mine at the honda dealer in Hollywood, Los Angeles in 2004. I went to the dealer to service my 2002 Honda VTX 1800 and surprise 3 Rune was on display. One blue one black and the black red one. I ask the dealer if the black was for sale. The black was sold to George Clooney and the blue to someone else. The red was for sale. I didn't hesitate one second. The best bike I have ever owned. I put 13000 miles on it and sold her for the same reason. I used to live in Venice Beach and the bike start to rust. The same problem. I really think the chrome is not good on this bike. Only seven years of ownership. I sold the bike to someone in China for $15000.I still have the book who comes with the bike. The Rune was the only Japonnaise bike respected with the Harley guys.
I'd take it with shit chrome and give it a rat-rod kind of look, but with key personal touches here n there
I wish I could of bought my bike from this guy he’s super honest
You really want a rare and unique Honda? See if you can get your hands on a Honda NR750.
Make it a collection a v4 fanatic would drool over......
RC30 (VFR750R)
RC45 (RVF750R)
NR750 (RC40)
VFR400R (NC30)
RVF400R (NC35)
RC213V-S
and even a VF1000R to finish out the rarely seen stateside collection.
Man, that is amazing right there. Because for starters the ones who didn't read the desc honestly I would have been like hey I put everything down your dropping 15K on something and didn't read when I spent all the time and effort to let you know, not my problem. The title stuff was crazy but hey you gave the money back which is something I would have been like when the property is back here you will get your money or at least when I have confirmation it is on the truck on its way back here. Still some good honesty and morals right there.