It doesn't matter if you have a full main stealer service record. Once you have reached the end of the manufacturer's warranty your part exchange values are on the floor. Changing your bike every couple of years is a sure way of losing a lot of money. Paying for debatable service standards at a main dealer should also be factored in. Far better to buy a bike that actually meets your needs and usage, keep it well maintained , even if it means you might get dirty fingers from doing basic stuff. Use trusted independent garages for the things you can't. Your bike should then last for many years, saving you lots of money and being a whole lot better for the planet.
I've just found an awesome local indy bike mechanic and now aren't worried about considering bikes where the dealer is a bit of a travel - annual servicing will be done with the indy as I trust them (I can sit and chat while he works on the bike so I learn stuff too) and the prices are fair.
That sounds ideal. I'm very wary of mechanics who aren't happy to have you watch what they've doing to your bike. If they use some excuse like elf an safety as a reason why you can't watch, gotta ask what are they wanting to hide?
I agreed a deal on a used bike, subject to the dealer checking valve clearances. Upon the bike arriving, I got out my inspection camera. The valve cover was encrusted in dirt and grime with not one witness mark left anywhere of it being ever been worked on. Certainly, no hex key had been anywhere near any of the valve cover screws. I sent them the photographs and they stuck to their story, even sending the shim "calculations" they had used as 'evidence'. So I checked the clearances and guess what? They were all different from their 'calcs'. Unbelievably, they still stuck to their story!
I am a doubting Thomas and I do not trust dealers at all, I wouldn't trust them to change the oil. I buy a used bike with low miles and lots of extras hopefully, do all mechanical work myself unless it's something I'm not comfortable with. and I have a good mate who's a top indy mechanic for that stuff.
Probably best that we help out the BMW dealers here, they obviously have to much work on. So buy another brands bikes and save BMW the stress of trying to fit you into their hectic schedule.
Seeing as though many BMWs have their engines built in China people may as well pay half as much and get a CF Moto or something. Or a Voge if you want to stay in the BMW family.
I do my own service for all my bikes at a fraction of the cost of a dealership! It’s no disrespect to the dealers as they overheads, qualified mechanics, I hope, diagnostic tools etc. I like to know that my bike been done according to the maintenance sheet. Anything I can’t do goes to my independent mechanic who is brilliant and doesn’t charge me the earth. Service kits for less than £60, oil and filter which are genuine. Less than £100 with filter etc. everyone should learn to service, repair their own bikes just like we always used to! Only those with to much and lacking brain cells used to pay for someone else to service their bike(S). 😂
Yes. MV Agusta serviced in London failed MOT 100 miles later due to spongy brakes - stated that they had been bled on the invoice. Aprilia serviced in Peterborough and two days later the chain is covered in rust after riding home in the rain.
Many years ago I measured the valve clearances on an inline 4. The owner already knew the shim sizes. We we’re about to do the shims ourselves the next weekend but he decided to get the dealer to do it in the week. Took it in…… nothing done. Charged 4 hours + parts. Nothing. I did all my own servicing after that…. Keep a file of receipts, photographs etc. for each bike + a spreadsheet
Motorcycles have become so complicated with all the electronics, fuel management systems, TFT screens, etc., that it's becoming difficult to do your own service, other than routine oil changes. People love to hate on Harley-Davidson, but the simple, air cooled pushrod engine is really easy to service and maintain. I can do a full service on my Sportster in about three hours with basic hand tools. My Triumph Tiger, on the other hand, needs valve checks, throttle body adjustments, coolant flushes, ABS service, and the list goes on. I had to buy a program to reset the blasted service light on the Triumph, which irritates the dickens out of me. I love both my bikes, but the Triumph is expensive and time consuming when it comes to servicing. Ride safe.
Bought an MT10 last year here in Munich. The dealer is not even picking up the phone anymore, I had to ride there to get booked in for the first service. 418,- EUR my friend!
I bought a service plan with a used zx6r many years ago from jordan bikes in leeds. All the services were ok apart from the last one. Came back to me louder than before and with the fuel economy through the floor. Took it back and they told me they had cleaned out my exhaust to make it run better... Me not knowing any better thought that souded a bit unlikely but wasn't sure what to say or do. After taking it to a local workshop they found that the headers had a crack in them. They also had marks on that i hadnt seen before. I am 100% certain they swapped the headers on my bike for the other zx6r they had in the showroom and tried to rinse me for a repair job. I confronted them about it and they denied all knowledge and got very passive aggressive and basically kicked me out.
That’s shocking behaviour by them, sorry to hear that. I hope you are having better luck there days. Thank you for adding to the thread, it would be appreciated if you’d like to sub.
Here in Australia aren’t allowed to refuse warranty if an independent services the bike so long as the service is done according to that manual for the mileage done the ACCC will stomp all over the dealer if they pull that stunt.
@@RRGS78 al believe New Zealand now the same. With the addition of they aren’t allowed to turn away bikes or cars if that is a brand they sell/service.
Its the reason I have stopped buying new bikes. Servicing is a nightmare. I have a 2017 Ducati that has had 2 Desmo services. Being an engineer I have done a Desmo myself as I just don't trust dealers. The rocker covers have never been off. Still got the factory sealant on the heads. Never been off. Airfilter has never been changed. Full of muck. Had to grind the rear axle off. bearings were knackered. There is no way you can properly do a desmo service in 8 hours.
I’d been a Triumph owner since the mid 90s, but took my Thunderbird Storm to the main Triumph dealer here in East Anglia. Needed to get the valve’s checked for the stamp. “Starting” price to look at the bike £150, I asked how long they wanted the bike for…. All day! At around £70 an hour! I’ve gone back to old bikes I can service! I just can’t warrant the prices the main dealers are asking nowadays, rip off!!
There is a clear link between the manufacturer warranty and the dealer service, a lot of people will pay the cost of the dealer service just to maintain the warranty 🤷🏻♂️
This is no longer legal in any EU country. Unfortunately, the UK is no longer in the EU and this part of consumer legislation might have been overturned by Re-Smug's godawful "Retained EU Law bill". You'd need to check with Citizen's advice. If the legislation is no longer in place, get in touch with your MP to have it reinstated.
@@juliusbullock That's B0LL0CKS. I live in an EU country and the legislation applies to all vehicles. In fact, it applies to anything which requires periodic maintenance. My wife's sewing machine, for example. And it gets better; the EU is currently working on "Right to repair legislation that will prohibit companies like Apple from bricking you gear if you try to repair it yourself. With Labour getting in, I expect that the UK government will probably adopt similar legislation to ensure less trade friction. Another reason NEVER to vote Tory.
I was to trade in my ducati and like i said to him i service it myself with receipts exactly the same way the dealer does oil water filters, crush washers all torqued up to service manual, he said oh if you had full service we could have give you an extra £1000 for your bike so i said yes but that would have cost me £1500 so i’am up £500 and he said well yes if you look at it that way so now i’am trading with agreed price. And the bike still has full service but done by myself with reciepts and if he wants my reciepts they will cost him £250, bet you the bike now gets all its stamps to show full dealer service history.
Worked in a car dealership,all sevices had a set time. So a big sevice on certain models was £750,the sevice manager would try to get the techs to do it in less time therefore increasing profits. Goes on everywhere sadly.
I really don't care about stamp collection, I tend to keep my bikes for 14 or more years so I do my servicing myself, even when it's brand new. Even if I sell them on years later you can see by the condition, I look after them.
I would guess that 95% of the time a "service" is not done properly to the manufacturers spec. An oil and filter change is not a service, albeit probably the most important thing you can do to ensure the longevity of the engine. Look in the owners book at what servicing entails. Mostly are inspections and adjust where necessary but I know they are not done by most. BTW, I do all my own "servicing". £200 to change oil and filter I can do myself for £40, plus all other checks and adjustments. PS, last year I was told I had to wait 2 months by Triumph to get a rear tyre fitted. Took the wheel off myself, down to the local tyre fitter and they did it that afternoon. 30% cheaper aswell.
Thanks for sharing your experience. For tyres i have a mobile guy that comes out to me, which is really convenient. EMJ tyres if you are in the Bristol area! Would be great if you could consider subscribing!
I blindly booked a Honda 125 into the dealer I bought it from without asking - daft I know. Came back to a bill of £180. They did a quick oil change and visual inspection. I paid as it was my fault for not getting quotes - I just assumed it would be a cheap thing. When I got home I rang around. The next nearest main dealer was £50 cheaper! Indys were a bit cheaper still. I rang back and complained and to be fair I was listened too and got my next full service for free. I'm now not put off that dealer in terms of buying bikes - they listened to my complaint and went above and beyond to make me a happy customer. I will definitley ring round for costs in future though, even if I go back there for a price match (if they will). As for wait times, when I buy my next bike soon, I'm thinking when I know the bike has hit UK soil I'll ring to book it's service. 600 miles takes no time to reach.
I used an independent garage certified as a Honda main dealer, for my cb125r I had a full service, which included oil filter/oil, spark plug, air filter aswell as inspection and chain adjustment, £190. I thought it was pretty steep but I got the stamp in the book and they are opposite my work so just wheeled it across on the day. Payed for convenience
Some time we have to, but i would try to look around if you can! Thank you for adding to the thread, it would be cool if you could add to my subscriber count!
My local Royal Enfield dealer charged me £120 + materials + VAT for the 300 mile service. The time taken was 1 hour. So that is £144 per hour for labour - a total rip-off.
This not a new phenomenon, same applies to cars too. Managed to get a local bike mechanic and a local car mechanic some 20 years ago and stayed with them since. The relationship, based on trust and mutual interest, is solid, rleiable and affordable - as for new techno, both garages have the latest diagnostic equipment and a close knit circle of fellow independents to share data. Don't be conned by the 'has to be brought to the main dealer to ensure warranty' crap - it doesn't - that threat is illegal. As long as correct parts are used and the work carried out by a qualified mechanic then there are no issues - and by the way having the same machanic service MY bike as opposed to a variety of 'technicians', often cutting their teeth on your bike, is the best of the deal. So you dont get a 'free cup of coffee' and you can't eat your dinner off the workshop floor, who cares?
It seems to be a widespread problem with dealers charging a fortune for servicing and doing sub-standard work and/or making customers wait weeks or months. Here in Australia I booked in for a minor service for a Honda I had purchased new from the dealer, it was six weeks before they could fit me in, and despite telling me it would be ready in one week, it took three phone calls from me to finally collect the bike after five weeks.
I would agree with that one. I bought a Sinnis 2 stroke moped from a local dealer. It took 8 attempts to get a repair on a gearbox bearing done correctly and even then when I got it back it had mismatched bolts, the exhaust was not properly fitted to the manifold and it had a gearbox leak. I have also had a main dealer charge me for 5 services only to turn around and tell me he only serviced it twice, after the engine failed due to a botched repair which wrecked the main bearing and bent the crankshaft.
I paid euros , 229€ for 1 year service with 7400 kilometers took about 40 minutes 😫84€ and hour labour they said same as a car but I said the engine is hanging out both sides how come it so exspensive? It’s bmw was the reply 😡
I recently was quoted 300-400 for an intermediate service... bike valued at 5000 recently at the same place. So up to 8% of the current px value offered. ...IF the oil needs changing... was one comment. ...It is very difficult to trust a dealership when your last part exchange was handed over with 17k miles, and you see it advertised and sold with 9k miles! One owner, I had it since new. Full dealer history etc. They're becoming thieves... woke thieves at that not changing the oil to save the environment 😂
No A scam is when you get nothing and are defrauded A dealer service is expensive, not necessarily good value and you have a right to recourse if it goes wrong, but it's not a scam. You are confusing poor value with zero value
Yeah as long as you understand there game,its OK,,, When I bought a new RE I had no intention of getting it serviced by the dealer and never did ,,of course that meant no warranty,,but on a cheap bike in practice you have little warranty anyway..On my BM ,,its too old ,,I just go to an independent... The Works ,,, York... good as gold..
Just don’t use dealers it’s a total scam. As soon as a bike is out of warranty I do all my own services. Any hit you take on resale will MORE than pay for itself.
I used to work for a dealer ship and believe me they are a rip off, if you are worried about service stamps and warranty then okay take it to a dealer, but let's be honest they want you in and out quick time and in a hurry to rake in as much money as possible, I believe any one with a brain znd a decent set of tools can work on there own motorcycle as long as you have the correct manual for your machine. I wouldnt take my motorcycle to a dealer with the prices they charge.
I use an independent, local bike engineer. He uses pukka parts and oils and I get the service stamp…and save loads on main dealer charges. What’s not to like?
I would want it in writing that the BMW dealer wouldn't touch a bike that hadn't been serviced by them or a BMW official dealer. Because that directly goes against European law. It might make an interesting test case. Having said that, I have quite a bit of sympathy for official dealers. Especially for brands like BMW, they have enormous overheads because of the hoops that BMW put them through to become officaial BMW dealers. OTOH, I am not th kind of owner who has a new bike every couple of years, so the importance of an official stamp is waaaayyyy lower to me than it is finding a mechanic I can trust. BTW, your difficulty in getting an appointment for a quick service is far from unusual. But can you imagine a car dealer getting away with that sort of BS? Unfortunately, it seems that this is an industry-wide problem, and no manufacturer that I am aware of takes it at all seriously. With my next bike, one of my requirements will be that they book my 1st service at the time of purchase, and that the date will be guaranteed to be within 1 week of delivery. If they can't Meer that demand, I'll go elsewhere. It doesn't surprise me that biking is dying a slow death in many markets, fortunately, not where I live.
Look, even if you aren't mechanically minded, doing basic servicing stuff isn't that hard and you'll even enjoy doing it. Anyone should be able to at least change their own oil and filter. I've just bought an oil and filter kit for my RE Super Meteor. It's a job that should take no more than an hour but I like to let the old oil drain out for at least 2 hours before I put the new filter on and refill the oil but that's just me. Use a good quality named brand engine oil don't skimp on quality of engine oil, pay a bit more and know you've got the best oil in your engine. Keep all receipts for parts you buy and either photograph or video yourself doing the job so you have proof that it has been done in case there is a warranty claim. (Warranties are often not worth the paper they are printed on in any case). Even doing things like changing brake pads isn't that hard to get your head round, it really isn't and there's loads of stuff on-line which will usually give you step by step instructions on how to do things. More complicated stuff like valve clearances, well if it's locknut and tappet, have a go yourself. Shims are a bit more complicated but if you can do maths or know how to use a calculator even that isn't that hard to do. I did the valve clearances on my Super Meteor and the hardest part of the entire job was taking the fuel tank off! Dealerships would have you believe that maintenance is some kind of super hero thing that only a trained mechanic can do. Notice how they are not called mechanics anymore but are now known as "technicians" to make it sound a lot more complicated than it actually is. And then there's the old chestnut of you never really know if the dealership has actually done all the work they say they have done. And used a decent engine oil when doing an oil change. Dealerships often buy their oil in bulk and I for one am very dubious of the quality of the lubricants which they use.
That is very, very scary. In essence then, you could invalidate your warranty because the dealer can't perform a required service within the given mileage range. You just can't make this stuff up :(
I'd want to check the relevant legislation. I know that in the EU, this is not true, and the dealer can't refuse warranty cover on those grounds. However, the UK is no longer in the EU, and the legislation may have changed.
@@davidcolin6519 you are no longer forced to use main dealers for servicing but the garage/workshop has to be an 'approved' garage/workshop. However, by not adhering to the manufacturers specified servicing intervals it does give them grounds for voiding your warranty - info from numerous internet sources. The bigger question is; would anyone risk it?
I bought a Husqvarna 701sm, the break in service was £243. Im stuck having to use the authorised dealer until the warranty runs out. Absolute rip off for oil and 2 paper filters for a single that doesn't carry much oil.
Ducati service's are a rip off the biggest cost is the oil it's put a lot of people buying ducatis one of my friends asked the service guy's why so much he surgested you buy your own service kit as long as the oil is what ducati recommend it was still a lot of money but managed to get the oil a lot cheaper than the dealer and they service the bike and stamped the service book ducati need sort this big problem out 🏍️😱
Warranties are conditional on servicing being done by an authorised dealer. Bikes are not covered by Block Exemption rules that cover the car trade, so if you want to keep your warranty, then authorised dealer servicing is essential, especially if it is something glamourous, expensive, over complicated and European. Servicing prices are usually displayed around the service reception area, if not, you could inquire as to the cost and lead times prior to purchasing a bike. Or why not buy in the depths of winter when nobody else wants to, book the 600 mile service as you order your bike and have short lead times for annual servicing for ever? No? Thought not, which is why dealer service depts are rammed for 8 months and dead for 4. Ever thought how much it costs to set up and run a bike dealership, then make continual investments to maintain the manufacturers standards? Obviously not. Best value franchised servicing has to be Suzuki. Oil and filter change and safety inspection/ adjustments in about 1.3 hours, simple reset proceedure for service light and an extra years warranty thrown in, up to 7 years or 70000 miles. If the European manufacturers offered this they would go bust, buried by warranty claims. So do the research before buying and plan ahead, simples.
This is not true in the EU, where there is specific legislation to ensure that you are not locked into the dealer service system. I know that the UK used to have the same legislation. It wouldn't surprise me if the Tories cut it out, they did so much damage nothing would surprise me.
we keep hearing about how motorbiking is a dying art, yet whenever you contact a main dealer it's the devils own job to get an appointment for anything, even when i bought my new bike last march they were uber busy with sales, same when i needed my running in service, so i don't know what;s going on with that narrative. I had a rear wheel slow puncture a month ago and contacted my local bike shop (who i trust) and they didn't have the tyre i wanted, so i rang the main dealer up, they not only quoted a ridiculous cost of the tyre and fitting, but said they couldn't do it till the end of july !! - 2 months !! WTF. i had to buy the tyre myself off the web, drive down to the shop with it, and then ride my bike down later, to have the local guy fit it, a bit of a hassle but at least managed to get it sorted within a week. every day's a school day as they say.
It’s honestly crazy how we all have a story like this, it’s real poor state of affairs. Thanks for your comment. Would be great if you would consider subscribing
Different story at Triumph though - first service was £80 on my last two bikes, and I got my current 765RS booked in on a week or so’s notice back in May.
This poor dealer treatment is endemic in the bike industry but trying a warranty claim without dealer service history will be an absolute nightmare. I own an Aprilia Tuono v4 1100 and recently paid £320 for an annual service and it came back with its chain tension like a bow string (4mm should be 20mm ) spoke to the service manager who tried to bullshit me by saying they can tightup with use. Never again!
Great video, and I want to make something similar to this, I have just brought a 2023 Suzuki V-STROM 1050 DE with a mere 500 miles on the clock. I had to get its yearly service sorted, this was done at bridge motorcycles in Devon and cost me £230! All they did was change the oil and general inspection, scam! I also had to ride 1 hour to get my bike serviced and hang around all day as it was an "all day appointment" they wanted £30 for a courtesy bike The Suzuki is the newest bike I have owned and the reason I don't usually buy bikes this new is because of the stupid servicing rules. I always service my own bikes, but when I reached out to Suzuki they said it can be done by independent dealers, or myself but if there is a warranty issue I may not be covered. So I was forced to get it done at a main dealers due to the wishy washy response. So for me, it has put me off ever buying a new bike again, and they wonder why sales are dwindling, I am not saying this is the reason but part of it
One of the pitfalls of owning a brand new bike I suppose, not something I’m ever likely to have to deal with as I prefer not to pay through the nose for new. I understand someone has to, just glad it’s not me.
@@RRGS78Yes, just not prepared to pay the astronomical prices they’re asking these days, that and I’m not a fan of all these “new breed” super sports that are flooding the market now, I’m old skool and been riding for 34 odd years now and to me technology is supposed to progress not regress, why would I want to buy a 700cc parallel twin that produces less bhp/top end than my current bike, just doesn’t make sense to me.
Thank God I own bikes where I can get a dealer service within days of asking. I don’t understand this concept of an annual service, why pay money for something that anybody can do themselves?
We only have one dealer here in N.I. so a closed shop. Also we in N.I. cannot buy a new bike on UK mainland as BMW have stopped the dealers selling us a bike by not letting the Mainland dealers register the bike in N.I. making us go to the N.I. dealer, sharp practice or illegal ??
They are just swamped, I don’t blame them. It’s a shitty situation for all. Thank you for your comment, it would be really appreciated if you subscribed.
The dealer shouldn't sell you a bike unless they can guarantee to fit your first service in within a week of your request. Last new bike I bought I booked the first service in before I left the showroom.
Thought I would share my experience with a Suzuki main dealer that has been very positive. I bought my Vstrom new in 22. First service was £80, next one £140 and they leant me an 800DE for the day. No charge. It’s a family run business does that make the difference?
I suppose it is a bit and it does piss me off when filming, but it does mean I never forget to switch the light off.. but yes a solution is needed Thank you for your comment
Click bait shite. Not a scam, they are busy. £15 for a days bike hire, very reasonable I’d say, ever got a quote for a single days insurance for a motorcycle? Don’t expect you’ll get much change.
I don’t get why you aren’t blaming the main dealers…it’s obviously the dealers, they are profiteering every which way. Use your local independent and stop throwing money away changing bikes every two years. And don’t get me started on PCP deals, you have to be a special kind of idiot to sign up to a PCP con!
Seen a video about a guy with the hsx supercharged kawasaki,he got told its second service was going to be around £480 or so,thst was cradely kawasaki or something like that,he phone around and another kawasaki dealer Completely motorcycles i think qouted around £240 or so,both kawasaki dealers guess what dealer got the work,he found that shocking.
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It doesn't matter if you have a full main stealer service record. Once you have reached the end of the manufacturer's warranty your part exchange values are on the floor.
Changing your bike every couple of years is a sure way of losing a lot of money. Paying for debatable service standards at a main dealer should also be factored in.
Far better to buy a bike that actually meets your needs and usage, keep it well maintained , even if it means you might get dirty fingers from doing basic stuff. Use trusted independent garages for the things you can't. Your bike should then last for many years, saving you lots of money and being a whole lot better for the planet.
Wise words sir!
I've just found an awesome local indy bike mechanic and now aren't worried about considering bikes where the dealer is a bit of a travel - annual servicing will be done with the indy as I trust them (I can sit and chat while he works on the bike so I learn stuff too) and the prices are fair.
That sounds ideal. I'm very wary of mechanics who aren't happy to have you watch what they've doing to your bike. If they use some excuse like elf an safety as a reason why you can't watch, gotta ask what are they wanting to hide?
Bought a new BSA in 1971 - BMW in1977 - Kawasaki in 1978 - still on the road - never been in a dealer - never been ripped off.
Well yes that is the way to do it!!! Nice work!
Would be great if you would subscribe!
I wouldn't mind paying the money if I actually believed they did what they were supposed to do.
I certainly have had that feeling before!
Don’t suppose you’d like to hit subscribe?!
I agreed a deal on a used bike, subject to the dealer checking valve clearances. Upon the bike arriving, I got out my inspection camera. The valve cover was encrusted in dirt and grime with not one witness mark left anywhere of it being ever been worked on. Certainly, no hex key had been anywhere near any of the valve cover screws. I sent them the photographs and they stuck to their story, even sending the shim "calculations" they had used as 'evidence'. So I checked the clearances and guess what? They were all different from their 'calcs'. Unbelievably, they still stuck to their story!
its shocking that people still try this thought of thing!! Thanks for sharing!
I am a doubting Thomas and I do not trust dealers at all, I wouldn't trust them to change the oil.
I buy a used bike with low miles and lots of extras hopefully, do all mechanical work myself unless it's something I'm not comfortable with. and I have a good mate who's a top indy mechanic for that stuff.
Spoke to a qualified mechanic years ago about the first service, some times all they do is put some greasy fingers on the bike and wipe them off.
lol I can believe it!!
Thanks for your comment!
Would be awesome if you could subscribe.
Probably best that we help out the BMW dealers here, they obviously have to much work on. So buy another brands bikes and save BMW the stress of trying to fit you into their hectic schedule.
Yes very good!!
Seeing as though many BMWs have their engines built in China people may as well pay half as much and get a CF Moto or something. Or a Voge if you want to stay in the BMW family.
I do my own service for all my bikes at a fraction of the cost of a dealership! It’s no disrespect to the dealers as they overheads, qualified mechanics, I hope, diagnostic tools etc. I like to know that my bike been done according to the maintenance sheet. Anything I can’t do goes to my independent mechanic who is brilliant and doesn’t charge me the earth. Service kits for less than £60, oil and filter which are genuine. Less than £100 with filter etc. everyone should learn to service, repair their own bikes just like we always used to! Only those with to much and lacking brain cells used to pay for someone else to service their bike(S). 😂
thank you for your comment and adding to the thread
Yes. MV Agusta serviced in London failed MOT 100 miles later due to spongy brakes - stated that they had been bled on the invoice. Aprilia serviced in Peterborough and two days later the chain is covered in rust after riding home in the rain.
Oh dear thats crappy, i hope you have found some good guys to look after your bikes now.
Would be appreciated if you could subscribe
Main dealership service costs are a complete rip off, use a good independent or do it yourself.
100%!
I have a local dealer that I used to service my old Triumph motorcycle when I can't. Yes it can be expensive but I trust them and it's convenient.
It’s all about finding the best solution that works for!
Ducati has a file for download called Transparent Maintenance that explains all the services schedules and workshop times.
Nice tip! Thank you!
Many years ago I measured the valve clearances on an inline 4. The owner already knew the shim sizes. We we’re about to do the shims ourselves the next weekend but he decided to get the dealer to do it in the week. Took it in…… nothing done. Charged 4 hours + parts. Nothing. I did all my own servicing after that….
Keep a file of receipts, photographs etc. for each bike + a spreadsheet
Photos are a great idea!! Thank you!
Motorcycles have become so complicated with all the electronics, fuel management systems, TFT screens, etc., that it's becoming difficult to do your own service, other than routine oil changes. People love to hate on Harley-Davidson, but the simple, air cooled pushrod engine is really easy to service and maintain. I can do a full service on my Sportster in about three hours with basic hand tools. My Triumph Tiger, on the other hand, needs valve checks, throttle body adjustments, coolant flushes, ABS service, and the list goes on. I had to buy a program to reset the blasted service light on the Triumph, which irritates the dickens out of me. I love both my bikes, but the Triumph is expensive and time consuming when it comes to servicing. Ride safe.
Thank you so much for your very relevant comment.
It would be appreciated if you’d care to subscribe.
Dealers are a rip off. No other words need to be said.
They unfortunately are, thank you for commenting.
Hitting subscribe would be a great help!
Bought an MT10 last year here in Munich. The dealer is not even picking up the phone anymore, I had to ride there to get booked in for the first service. 418,- EUR my friend!
Holy shit that is expensive!
At least crappy service is consistent across borders! Thank you for adding to the thread, would be great if you could sub.
I bought a service plan with a used zx6r many years ago from jordan bikes in leeds. All the services were ok apart from the last one. Came back to me louder than before and with the fuel economy through the floor. Took it back and they told me they had cleaned out my exhaust to make it run better... Me not knowing any better thought that souded a bit unlikely but wasn't sure what to say or do. After taking it to a local workshop they found that the headers had a crack in them. They also had marks on that i hadnt seen before. I am 100% certain they swapped the headers on my bike for the other zx6r they had in the showroom and tried to rinse me for a repair job. I confronted them about it and they denied all knowledge and got very passive aggressive and basically kicked me out.
That’s shocking behaviour by them, sorry to hear that.
I hope you are having better luck there days.
Thank you for adding to the thread, it would be appreciated if you’d like to sub.
Here in Australia aren’t allowed to refuse warranty if an independent services the bike so long as the service is done according to that manual for the mileage done the ACCC will stomp all over the dealer if they pull that stunt.
That sounds great! Thank you so much for commenting from over in Oz!
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@@RRGS78 al believe New Zealand now the same. With the addition of they aren’t allowed to turn away bikes or cars if that is a brand they sell/service.
Same in the uk aswell, aslong as proof of genuine parts have been used and serviced at any certified garage to manufacturer intervals warranty stands
Its the reason I have stopped buying new bikes. Servicing is a nightmare. I have a 2017 Ducati that has had 2 Desmo services. Being an engineer I have done a Desmo myself as I just don't trust dealers. The rocker covers have never been off. Still got the factory sealant on the heads. Never been off. Airfilter has never been changed. Full of muck. Had to grind the rear axle off. bearings were knackered. There is no way you can properly do a desmo service in 8 hours.
Thanks for sharing your story!
I’d been a Triumph owner since the mid 90s, but took my Thunderbird Storm to the main Triumph dealer here in East Anglia. Needed to get the valve’s checked for the stamp. “Starting” price to look at the bike £150, I asked how long they wanted the bike for…. All day! At around £70 an hour!
I’ve gone back to old bikes I can service! I just can’t warrant the prices the main dealers are asking nowadays, rip off!!
i think that might be a smart idea! Thank you for sharing!
@@RRGS78 I’ve a Yamaha Royal Star Venture now and in the process of getting a BSA A65 back on the road.
There is a clear link between the manufacturer warranty and the dealer service, a lot of people will pay the cost of the dealer service just to maintain the warranty 🤷🏻♂️
I know at least in the uk, I have always had all my new vehicles serviced by independent garages and it’s never impacted the warranty.
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This is no longer legal in any EU country. Unfortunately, the UK is no longer in the EU and this part of consumer legislation might have been overturned by Re-Smug's godawful "Retained EU Law bill". You'd need to check with Citizen's advice. If the legislation is no longer in place, get in touch with your MP to have it reinstated.
@@davidcolin6519 The legislation only ever applied to cars, not bikes. So if you don't use a main dealer you'll loose your warranty
@@juliusbullock That's B0LL0CKS. I live in an EU country and the legislation applies to all vehicles. In fact, it applies to anything which requires periodic maintenance. My wife's sewing machine, for example.
And it gets better; the EU is currently working on "Right to repair legislation that will prohibit companies like Apple from bricking you gear if you try to repair it yourself.
With Labour getting in, I expect that the UK government will probably adopt similar legislation to ensure less trade friction. Another reason NEVER to vote Tory.
I was to trade in my ducati and like i said to him i service it myself with receipts exactly the same way the dealer does oil water filters, crush washers all torqued up to service manual, he said oh if you had full service we could have give you an extra £1000 for your bike so i said yes but that would have cost me £1500 so i’am up £500 and he said well yes if you look at it that way so now i’am trading with agreed price. And the bike still has full service but done by myself with reciepts and if he wants my reciepts they will cost him £250, bet you the bike now gets all its stamps to show full dealer service history.
Love it! Thanks for sharing! Would be great if you would like to sub
Worked in a car dealership,all sevices had a set time.
So a big sevice on certain models was £750,the sevice manager would try to get the techs to do it in less time therefore increasing profits.
Goes on everywhere sadly.
Thank you for the insights.
I really don't care about stamp collection, I tend to keep my bikes for 14 or more years so I do my servicing myself, even when it's brand new. Even if I sell them on years later you can see by the condition, I look after them.
I would guess that 95% of the time a "service" is not done properly to the manufacturers spec. An oil and filter change is not a service, albeit probably the most important thing you can do to ensure the longevity of the engine. Look in the owners book at what servicing entails. Mostly are inspections and adjust where necessary but I know they are not done by most. BTW, I do all my own "servicing". £200 to change oil and filter I can do myself for £40, plus all other checks and adjustments.
PS, last year I was told I had to wait 2 months by Triumph to get a rear tyre fitted. Took the wheel off myself, down to the local tyre fitter and they did it that afternoon. 30% cheaper aswell.
Thanks for sharing your experience.
For tyres i have a mobile guy that comes out to me, which is really convenient. EMJ tyres if you are in the Bristol area!
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I blindly booked a Honda 125 into the dealer I bought it from without asking - daft I know. Came back to a bill of £180. They did a quick oil change and visual inspection. I paid as it was my fault for not getting quotes - I just assumed it would be a cheap thing. When I got home I rang around. The next nearest main dealer was £50 cheaper! Indys were a bit cheaper still. I rang back and complained and to be fair I was listened too and got my next full service for free. I'm now not put off that dealer in terms of buying bikes - they listened to my complaint and went above and beyond to make me a happy customer. I will definitley ring round for costs in future though, even if I go back there for a price match (if they will).
As for wait times, when I buy my next bike soon, I'm thinking when I know the bike has hit UK soil I'll ring to book it's service. 600 miles takes no time to reach.
thats a smart idea about booking ahead! thanks for sharing!
I used an independent garage certified as a Honda main dealer, for my cb125r I had a full service, which included oil filter/oil, spark plug, air filter aswell as inspection and chain adjustment, £190. I thought it was pretty steep but I got the stamp in the book and they are opposite my work so just wheeled it across on the day. Payed for convenience
Some time we have to, but i would try to look around if you can! Thank you for adding to the thread, it would be cool if you could add to my subscriber count!
I can see why the cheap end 300-500cc bikes are getting popular, cheap bike, service it yourself 😊
yes, and even the cheap bikes are getting expensive
BMW main dealers are a rip off.
Probably the easiest bike to do an oil change on £250+.
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My local Royal Enfield dealer charged me £120 + materials + VAT for the 300 mile service. The time taken was 1 hour. So that is £144 per hour for labour - a total rip-off.
That does seem a bit strong!!
Mines being serviced in August. Booked in May… 🤔
hmm indeed!
Most cheat you every chance they get. Parts you can get for $100, they will charge you more than twice for it.
You do have to be careful you don’t get ripped off!
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This not a new phenomenon, same applies to cars too. Managed to get a local bike mechanic and a local car mechanic some 20 years ago and stayed with them since. The relationship, based on trust and mutual interest, is solid, rleiable and affordable - as for new techno, both garages have the latest diagnostic equipment and a close knit circle of fellow independents to share data. Don't be conned by the 'has to be brought to the main dealer to ensure warranty' crap - it doesn't - that threat is illegal. As long as correct parts are used and the work carried out by a qualified mechanic then there are no issues - and by the way having the same machanic service MY bike as opposed to a variety of 'technicians', often cutting their teeth on your bike, is the best of the deal. So you dont get a 'free cup of coffee' and you can't eat your dinner off the workshop floor, who cares?
Thank you sir, i couldnt have put it better myself! Would be awesome if youd like to sub
@@RRGS78 sorry not sure what you mean
i was suggesting if would be great if you would like to subscribe to my channel..
Sure no problem
It seems to be a widespread problem with dealers charging a fortune for servicing and doing sub-standard work and/or making customers wait weeks or months. Here in Australia I booked in for a minor service for a Honda I had purchased new from the dealer, it was six weeks before they could fit me in, and despite telling me it would be ready in one week, it took three phone calls from me to finally collect the bike after five weeks.
We all need to start voting with our feet and money!
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I would agree with that one. I bought a Sinnis 2 stroke moped from a local dealer. It took 8 attempts to get a repair on a gearbox bearing done correctly and even then when I got it back it had mismatched bolts, the exhaust was not properly fitted to the manifold and it had a gearbox leak. I have also had a main dealer charge me for 5 services only to turn around and tell me he only serviced it twice, after the engine failed due to a botched repair which wrecked the main bearing and bent the crankshaft.
That’s terrible, thank you for commenting though! It seems to be rife all of this crappy service.
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I paid euros , 229€ for 1 year service with 7400 kilometers took about 40 minutes 😫84€ and hour labour they said same as a car but I said the engine is hanging out both sides how come it so exspensive? It’s bmw was the reply 😡
thats a great question to ask them! Thank you for adding this to the thread, would be great if you could consider subbing
I recently was quoted 300-400 for an intermediate service... bike valued at 5000 recently at the same place. So up to 8% of the current px value offered.
...IF the oil needs changing... was one comment.
...It is very difficult to trust a dealership when your last part exchange was handed over with 17k miles, and you see it advertised and sold with 9k miles! One owner, I had it since new. Full dealer history etc.
They're becoming thieves... woke thieves at that not changing the oil to save the environment 😂
Well at least they are woke 😂.
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No
A scam is when you get nothing and are defrauded
A dealer service is expensive, not necessarily good value and you have a right to recourse if it goes wrong, but it's not a scam.
You are confusing poor value with zero value
No, i know what i meant. i was using the term in its colloquial sense.
Yeah as long as you understand there game,its OK,,, When I bought a new RE I had no intention of getting it serviced by the dealer and never did ,,of course that meant no warranty,,but on a cheap bike in practice you have little warranty anyway..On my BM ,,its too old ,,I just go to an independent... The Works ,,, York... good as gold..
nice thank you for posting the recommendation! I would like to recommend you to subscribe!
Just don’t use dealers it’s a total scam. As soon as a bike is out of warranty I do all my own services. Any hit you take on resale will MORE than pay for itself.
Thats not bad advice! So is the advice to subscribe!
I used to work for a dealer ship and believe me they are a rip off, if you are worried about service stamps and warranty then okay take it to a dealer, but let's be honest they want you in and out quick time and in a hurry to rake in as much money as possible, I believe any one with a brain znd a decent set of tools can work on there own motorcycle as long as you have the correct manual for your machine. I wouldnt take my motorcycle to a dealer with the prices they charge.
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Well yesterday picked up my Triumph Tiger 900 which had a 12k Service which includes Valve check at main dealer. £852!!! That was with a discount.
That’s fucking horrific!!!!!
Sorry to hear that mate
I use an independent, local bike engineer. He uses pukka parts and oils and I get the service stamp…and save loads on main dealer charges. What’s not to like?
my thoughts exactly!! Thanks for sharing! Would be great if you could hit sub!
@@RRGS78 done 👍
I would want it in writing that the BMW dealer wouldn't touch a bike that hadn't been serviced by them or a BMW official dealer. Because that directly goes against European law. It might make an interesting test case.
Having said that, I have quite a bit of sympathy for official dealers. Especially for brands like BMW, they have enormous overheads because of the hoops that BMW put them through to become officaial BMW dealers.
OTOH, I am not th kind of owner who has a new bike every couple of years, so the importance of an official stamp is waaaayyyy lower to me than it is finding a mechanic I can trust.
BTW, your difficulty in getting an appointment for a quick service is far from unusual. But can you imagine a car dealer getting away with that sort of BS? Unfortunately, it seems that this is an industry-wide problem, and no manufacturer that I am aware of takes it at all seriously. With my next bike, one of my requirements will be that they book my 1st service at the time of purchase, and that the date will be guaranteed to be within 1 week of delivery. If they can't Meer that demand, I'll go elsewhere.
It doesn't surprise me that biking is dying a slow death in many markets, fortunately, not where I live.
Look, even if you aren't mechanically minded, doing basic servicing stuff isn't that hard and you'll even enjoy doing it. Anyone should be able to at least change their own oil and filter. I've just bought an oil and filter kit for my RE Super Meteor. It's a job that should take no more than an hour but I like to let the old oil drain out for at least 2 hours before I put the new filter on and refill the oil but that's just me. Use a good quality named brand engine oil don't skimp on quality of engine oil, pay a bit more and know you've got the best oil in your engine. Keep all receipts for parts you buy and either photograph or video yourself doing the job so you have proof that it has been done in case there is a warranty claim. (Warranties are often not worth the paper they are printed on in any case). Even doing things like changing brake pads isn't that hard to get your head round, it really isn't and there's loads of stuff on-line which will usually give you step by step instructions on how to do things. More complicated stuff like valve clearances, well if it's locknut and tappet, have a go yourself. Shims are a bit more complicated but if you can do maths or know how to use a calculator even that isn't that hard to do. I did the valve clearances on my Super Meteor and the hardest part of the entire job was taking the fuel tank off!
Dealerships would have you believe that maintenance is some kind of super hero thing that only a trained mechanic can do. Notice how they are not called mechanics anymore but are now known as "technicians" to make it sound a lot more complicated than it actually is. And then there's the old chestnut of you never really know if the dealership has actually done all the work they say they have done. And used a decent engine oil when doing an oil change. Dealerships often buy their oil in bulk and I for one am very dubious of the quality of the lubricants which they use.
Some very valid points there, thank you for sharing!
That is very, very scary. In essence then, you could invalidate your warranty because the dealer can't perform a required service within the given mileage range. You just can't make this stuff up :(
@@Guardian2003 bonkers indeed, thanks for adding to the thread, would be great if you could sub
I'd want to check the relevant legislation. I know that in the EU, this is not true, and the dealer can't refuse warranty cover on those grounds. However, the UK is no longer in the EU, and the legislation may have changed.
@@davidcolin6519 you are no longer forced to use main dealers for servicing but the garage/workshop has to be an 'approved' garage/workshop. However, by not adhering to the manufacturers specified servicing intervals it does give them grounds for voiding your warranty - info from numerous internet sources. The bigger question is; would anyone risk it?
I bought a Husqvarna 701sm, the break in service was £243. Im stuck having to use the authorised dealer until the warranty runs out. Absolute rip off for oil and 2 paper filters for a single that doesn't carry much oil.
shit thats expensive!!
@@RRGS78 doesn't help that they charge £95 per hour for labour.
Ducati service's are a rip off the biggest cost is the oil it's put a lot of people buying ducatis one of my friends asked the service guy's why so much he surgested you buy your own service kit as long as the oil is what ducati recommend it was still a lot of money but managed to get the oil a lot cheaper than the dealer and they service the bike and stamped the service book ducati need sort this big problem out 🏍️😱
Thank you for sharing!
Warranties are conditional on servicing being done by an authorised dealer. Bikes are not covered by Block Exemption rules that cover the car trade, so if you want to keep your warranty, then authorised dealer servicing is essential, especially if it is something glamourous, expensive, over complicated and European. Servicing prices are usually displayed around the service reception area, if not, you could inquire as to the cost and lead times prior to purchasing a bike. Or why not buy in the depths of winter when nobody else wants to, book the 600 mile service as you order your bike and have short lead times for annual servicing for ever? No? Thought not, which is why dealer service depts are rammed for 8 months and dead for 4. Ever thought how much it costs to set up and run a bike dealership, then make continual investments to maintain the manufacturers standards? Obviously not. Best value franchised servicing has to be Suzuki. Oil and filter change and safety inspection/ adjustments in about 1.3 hours, simple reset proceedure for service light and an extra years warranty thrown in, up to 7 years or 70000 miles. If the European manufacturers offered this they would go bust, buried by warranty claims. So do the research before buying and plan ahead, simples.
Or don’t worry about, I have my bikes serviced by non dealers for a long time and never had any issues.
Thank you for your comprehensive comment
This is not true in the EU, where there is specific legislation to ensure that you are not locked into the dealer service system. I know that the UK used to have the same legislation. It wouldn't surprise me if the Tories cut it out, they did so much damage nothing would surprise me.
we keep hearing about how motorbiking is a dying art, yet whenever you contact a main dealer it's the devils own job to get an appointment for anything, even when i bought my new bike last march they were uber busy with sales, same when i needed my running in service, so i don't know what;s going on with that narrative. I had a rear wheel slow puncture a month ago and contacted my local bike shop (who i trust) and they didn't have the tyre i wanted, so i rang the main dealer up, they not only quoted a ridiculous cost of the tyre and fitting, but said they couldn't do it till the end of july !! - 2 months !! WTF. i had to buy the tyre myself off the web, drive down to the shop with it, and then ride my bike down later, to have the local guy fit it, a bit of a hassle but at least managed to get it sorted within a week. every day's a school day as they say.
It’s honestly crazy how we all have a story like this, it’s real poor state of affairs. Thanks for your comment. Would be great if you would consider subscribing
Different story at Triumph though - first service was £80 on my last two bikes, and I got my current 765RS booked in on a week or so’s notice back in May.
Yay! A good news story!! Thank you for sharing! Fancy hitting subscribe?!
This poor dealer treatment is endemic in the bike industry but trying a warranty claim without dealer service history will be an absolute nightmare. I own an Aprilia Tuono v4 1100 and recently paid £320 for an annual service and it came back with its chain tension like a bow string (4mm should be 20mm ) spoke to the service manager who tried to bullshit me by saying they can tightup with use. Never again!
It’s sad how common these stories are
Great video, and I want to make something similar to this, I have just brought a 2023 Suzuki V-STROM 1050 DE with a mere 500 miles on the clock.
I had to get its yearly service sorted, this was done at bridge motorcycles in Devon and cost me £230!
All they did was change the oil and general inspection, scam!
I also had to ride 1 hour to get my bike serviced and hang around all day as it was an "all day appointment" they wanted £30 for a courtesy bike
The Suzuki is the newest bike I have owned and the reason I don't usually buy bikes this new is because of the stupid servicing rules.
I always service my own bikes, but when I reached out to Suzuki they said it can be done by independent dealers, or myself but if there is a warranty issue I may not be covered. So I was forced to get it done at a main dealers due to the wishy washy response.
So for me, it has put me off ever buying a new bike again, and they wonder why sales are dwindling, I am not saying this is the reason but part of it
I think you are right!
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@@RRGS78 subbed 😁
One of the pitfalls of owning a brand new bike I suppose, not something I’m ever likely to have to deal with as I prefer not to pay through the nose for new.
I understand someone has to, just glad it’s not me.
Like you suggest someone has to be buy then new for them to be used bikes for someone else!
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@@RRGS78Yes, just not prepared to pay the astronomical prices they’re asking these days, that and I’m not a fan of all these “new breed” super sports that are flooding the market now, I’m old skool and been riding for 34 odd years now and to me technology is supposed to progress not regress, why would I want to buy a 700cc parallel twin that produces less bhp/top end than my current bike, just doesn’t make sense to me.
doesnt make sense to me either
Thank God I own bikes where I can get a dealer service within days of asking. I don’t understand this concept of an annual service, why pay money for something that anybody can do themselves?
I would keep where you live secret or people will be coming to your dealer!!
@@RRGS78Two different bikes, a choice of dealers for both.
What have you got?
But what about the service light on the Ducati , last year only dealer could put it out
No it can be reset by anyone with the right kit. Great question though!
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We only have one dealer here in N.I. so a closed shop. Also we in N.I. cannot buy a new bike on UK mainland as BMW have stopped the dealers selling us a bike by not letting the Mainland dealers register the bike in N.I. making us go to the N.I. dealer, sharp practice or illegal ??
That sounds shady as, but it’s not a surprised. Thank you for sharing. Would be great if you hit subscribe
That's the dealerships trying to keep you in the dark
They are just swamped, I don’t blame them. It’s a shitty situation for all.
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The dealer shouldn't sell you a bike unless they can guarantee to fit your first service in within a week of your request. Last new bike I bought I booked the first service in before I left the showroom.
I know it’s shocking but I understand it’s pressure from above the dealer
Thought I would share my experience with a Suzuki main dealer that has been very positive. I bought my Vstrom new in 22. First service was £80, next one £140 and they leant me an 800DE for the day. No charge. It’s a family run business does that make the difference?
Its great to hear a good news story on this thread! Thank you for sharing... would it be awesome if you could subscribe!
dude, fix the dam lights, soooooo Mickey Mouse
I suppose it is a bit and it does piss me off when filming, but it does mean I never forget to switch the light off.. but yes a solution is needed
Thank you for your comment
40 quid seems dirt cheap. Beware
It is cheap, but he’s a friend of mine and a very good mechanic. But thank you for the word of warning!
Click bait shite. Not a scam, they are busy.
£15 for a days bike hire, very reasonable I’d say, ever got a quote for a single days insurance for a motorcycle? Don’t expect you’ll get much change.
Thank you so much for your comment, it really appreciated
I don’t get why you aren’t blaming the main dealers…it’s obviously the dealers, they are profiteering every which way. Use your local independent and stop throwing money away changing bikes every two years. And don’t get me started on PCP deals, you have to be a special kind of idiot to sign up to a PCP con!
Thank you for your impartial comment!
Seen a video about a guy with the hsx supercharged kawasaki,he got told its second service was going to be around £480 or so,thst was cradely kawasaki or something like that,he phone around and another kawasaki dealer Completely motorcycles i think qouted around £240 or so,both kawasaki dealers guess what dealer got the work,he found that shocking.
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It does seem a bit of a lottery, for either cost or timescales!
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