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Review content:
Before buying something for any of our bikes (either our street, track, or dirt bikes -- yes, we have a garage full of them), I typically spend hours researching thoroughly on the web and talking to others first. Once I've decided what I'm getting, then it's back searching on the web for the best price on whatever product model I've settled on. This is how I previously bought almost all our moto stuff -- find the best product for the best price.
Some time ago I wandered into the Pleasanton CycleGear store, and ever since I no longer buy my stuff online or anywhere else. Here's why:
1) I was impressed with the staff's in-depth knowledge. Their answers and comments were spot-on with what I researched, and they also provided guidance and suggestions for what I was looking for (which I didn't know -- and believe me there's a lot I don't know about motorcycles) that I later also found to be spot-on. While the staff there are not old geezers (like me :^), I would instead characterize them in their 20s and 30s where the staff either race themselves or live and breath motorcycles (and probably had Motul oil running through their blood) - - talking with the employees there reminded me of wandering through an AFM or AMA paddock, where the racers and crew are very friendly, knowledgeable, and more than happy to answer any questions you might have.
2) I can get *anything* from that store. While they may not always have that top-of-the-line part I decided upon right there on the shelf, they can order and get it as fast (or faster) than if I ordered it from one of those motorcycle websites. As a result, I've ""special ordered"" many, many items from that store -- sometimes standing at the counter with one of the employees going through numerous manufacturers catalogs discovering options or information that you won't find on the web (including the manufacturer's site). They have rows and rows of manufacturer;s catalogs all along behind the counter. Here's the best part: unlike online stores, you can return it after it arrives and discover it doesn't fit your bike like the manufacturer claimed or it's just not what you expected -- you simply return it to the store without any hassle. No packing up, shipping back, restocking fees, etc -- probably one of the best return policy in the business which is fantastic when ordering parts.
3) I've found the staff genuinely friendly. I've sometimes been there for a couple hours trying on things, asking questions, changing my mind once I've seen or tried it on, etc, with an employee assisting me the whole time like a personal shopper. Other times I've been there to just browse and it was nice not having someone hovering over me and repeatedly asking if I needed help (like at some other stores) when I really did just wanted to browse.
4) Finally, I've found their prices competitive especially with their price matching policy. And here's two other tips to save even more: get on their mailing list and each month CycleGear sends a catalog with discount coupons in it, and 2) get their MotoCredit Card and you'll receive discount checks. I've received checks good for $20, $40, etc. discounts with no restrictions (just like cash) -- which I think is incredible.
Ok, so why the lengthy, glowing review? No, I don't (and never previously) work for CycleGear, and no I don't know anyone that does. Instead, I truly became a loyal customer and do all my moto shopping at this store now for the reasons given above.
Happy riding!
--steve
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