Oil Drippings: News and Opinion

By Bud Wilkinson of RIDE-CT.com

One of the biggest irritants for motorcycle dealers is having someone come in and try on gear or examine an accessory … and then leave and buy the item for less online. Forget irritating. How about infuriating, especially when big-volume online retailers can sometimes sell things for less than the dealer pays before markup?

Two press releases received yesterday revealed a related example of unfairness to dealers. In one, Triumph announced that it’s opening an online store in time for Black Friday, which will enable shoppers to bypass their local dealer and buy directly from the company. The other release came from Victory, which announced its 2013 collection of riding apparel and noted purchases can be made 24/7 at purepolaris.com.

Presumably the retail prices of branded apparel and parts will be the same, but the convenience of online shopping will certainly hurts dealers.

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Some good news for Norton. Dan Van Epps, who heads Norton’s Beacon Falls-based North American operation, sent along a company press release announcing that the federal EPA has issued a “Certificate of Conformity” for the bike-maker’s 2013 Norton Commando 961. This means the bikes meet federal emission standards and may be sold in the U.S. The company says it is “ready to begin production.”

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Twisted Throttle, the Exeter, RI-based retailer of aftermarket accessories, has launched a motorcycle rental program from its “world headquarters.” The company requires that anyone renting be 25 years of age and have a minimum of two years riding experience. Rates start as low as $99 per day and various model bikes are available. For more info, visit here.