As most riders agree, motorcycle gives numerous benefits. It is cool and it gives a rider the bit of adrenalin. motorcycle is the most convenient way to a biker’s destination. But if something gone wrong with your motorcycle, where do you turn to? There is no definite answer to that question. Which option is best depends which one you can trust.
Motorcycles are like human beings that need to be healthy and strong, to be able to function properly and keep it running well. It needs specialist for maintenance and repair. Some may opt to go to real specialists. Others may prefer the general practitioners. If the budget is a problem, they do self-medications. So with motorcycles, we have an option to go to the Dealers, or private mechanic, or simply Do-It-Yourself. Whatever options it may, there are advantages and disadvantages to consider before you pop the bonnet.
Let us take a look on the different options and their benefits and drawbacks as well.
DEALER
People believe that going to the dealers for maintenance and repair is the best option. The dealer is equipped with all the latest motor apparel which motorcycle fanatics agree. They have the advantage of having the best modern technology and specific trainings. But not all agree to this option. Let’s have a look on the pros and cons of visiting a dealer for service.
Pros
1. Trained Technicians
Dealers have trained and licensed technicians. They are usually trained by the manufacturers. They can easily identify and fix the problem without much analysis. They can do warranty work and guaranteed work as well.
2. Ready available spare parts
Dealers see to it that all spare parts are readily available. They have strict inventory on their parts. Manufacturers on the other hand regularly supplies all spare parts needed for their models.
Cons
1. Expensive
The cost is oftentimes perceived as an aspect in considering options. Traditionally labor cost at dealers is usually high. There is a lot of overhead expenses, and the parts are genuine making the cost so high.
2. None Priority
Knowing that most consumers prefer to visit the dealers for service because of issues with warranty. There are lots of customers to deal with. The service is “first come, first serve” basis. Even if they say that they can easily fix the problem of your bike, but still you can’t be prioritized.
PRIVATE MECHANIC
Finding a shop is easier for most riders. Sometimes just a call away, a mechanic will service your bike right away. But there are questions to its guaranteed work. Here are some pros and cons to think of visiting a private mechanic for maintenance and repair.
Pros
1. Personalized Service
The customer can meet and speak directly to the mechanic. He can discuss freely his concerns on his bike. The customer can even do bargaining with the mechanic. He can visit the mechanic anytime he wants. The mechanic can also do overtime just to finish his job with a particular customer.
2. Cheaper cost
Private mechanic usually charge the customer cheaper cost compared to dealers. The labor cost is affordable. The parts are also cheaper though it is not genuine. They have contacts or referrals that the can look for after-market parts which is good as branded parts.
Cons
1. Parts Availability
Private mechanic have no direct contact with the manufacturers. The parts are not been supplied by the manufacturers. They still have to place an order because they don’t have it in their inventory.
2. Equipment
Mechanics can be technically proficient, but they don’t have the support from the manufacturer. They don’t have the software or the latest technology to do the servicing. They are not provided with the best tools and equipment to do the job.
Do It Yourself
If you know a thing about motorcycles, then you can do it yourself. If you have the skills, tools and enough time to learn, Do-it-yourself may work for you. Though it gives you numerous advantages, but you must be aware of the disadvantages of doing the work in your backyard. Here we discuss the pros and cons.
Pros
1. Cheapest
Doing It Yourself is the cheapest option as mostly agreed by riders. By doing repairs yourself, you definitely save money. This is the one of the most beneficial thing in doing it yourself. You only spend for the spare parts which usually you can market at an affordable price.
2. Enhance skills
This is one of the best thing of doing it yourself. You will learn while working. It enhances your skills thus building your self-confidence. It gives you a great feeling of accomplishment of the job you’ve done.
Cons
1. Dangerous
Due to lack of knowledge and tools, doing it yourself may be dangerous. You may be exposed to some hazardous chemicals. You may not have the proper tools or equipment necessary for maintenance and repair. The worst thing is that you might hurt yourself, thus leading to accidents. The painful thing is that it may lead to breakdowns that could further damage your motorcycle.
2. Frustration
Though doing the job yourself gives lots of benefits but your experience and skills may not be enough to handle the job. You may attempt to do it yourself to save money, but when things go wrong and you are not sure of what you are doing, this may lead to frustration. Doing it yourself need time and patience. You should be dedicated to what you are doing.
Maintenance and repairs are the most concern of every riders. Though there are options but certainly there are pros and cons to every preference. Generally 2 wheels are better because they are simpler to handle. Working on a motorcycle is comparatively simple and easy. Best thing you can do is to ask around and figure out which option is the best.
