Used manufacturer and revzilla videos for product demo/info and then purchase from GP Bikes usually. Just last week I got new HJC RPHA 10 helmet for easily $100+ less than anywhere online. As well as a set of gloves, boots, hat, and two shields (all under online prices).
I acquired the RPHA 10 back in fall for $219 when the dollar was closer to par than it is at it's current state.
Wait until there's no dealers to go into to try things on. How will you know what fits before you order it online? Why are you spending $700 on a helmet when you have no money to pay your mortgage and little Lisa needs braces?
"Damn I need a continuum transfunctioner so I can ride tomorrow! I'll just take a quick trip over to....ah damn never mind, they closed up because everyone just orders their **** online now."
I like how GP and Royal are close together. And I also understand why they are all the way out in Durham--lower overhead, more space, to offer more competitive prices for us. If someone posts a nice twisty route with the ending location at this bike-mall, I may be more inclined to go. But as it is, I have such limited time on the bike, I'd rather order online, and ride out north/northeast/northwest. So to some, it's more about managing a scarce commodity--time.
Im surprised shops in GTA struggle. The second hand market here is insane, people ask more for second hand bikes/gear then you can buy it new from the dealers. Its not just a bike industry thing either, people in the GTA think their stuff is just worth more then you can buy new. My favorite is ads for say a $500+tax item new and they are selling it second hand for $500... you save the tax.... LOL If i sell a second hand item, chances are its at about half the price of new unless its nib in which case its about 80% of new...
It is indeed shocking. People buy at regular prices, at prices 15-20% higher than american pricing, then pull from their European car-forum-habits and ask for 80% retail price; PLUS my sweat, boogers, and tears, "never dropped, lady ridden" free of charge. Well hot damn, must be unicorn tears to command more than 50% off retail!
Exactly what dricked just posted. Unless it's a lot of loot support your local guys or it will only get worse.
I would suggest that they do more social media-oriented promotions/exposure, specifically aiming at the younger generation that is entering the hobby VS trying to retain those that have shifted to online shopping. Bait the younger generation with "repost X,Y,Z" for $5 off type deals for increased exposure and awareness. The young guns will twit the **** out of that if it means $5 more for gas. Re-post 20 of our posts on social media to get $20 off your next purchase of $100 or more type of business.
I'm lucky to have access to free shipping from most retailers in the states, an american visa, and a means to get those goods transported for the cost of a beer once in a while, so for me, amazon/american retailers still make sense for the big ticket purchases.
