Tricks of the Trade

[Flying Zombie]

I know we all have trade secrets haggling and doing our business we wouldnt share., Fair Nuff!
But what about the knowledge you Would Share? I like many of the folks Im finding here are pretty new to the bike business.,

From buying for comforts to buying for the sake of flipping for that Rent you're low on.,
What are some of the techniques and methods that help you when dealing with a seller?

 

[Flying Zombie]

Right now,. Im trying to pick up a couple of bikes, and I dont have a clear means to go see or get them, however I do have my eye on two of the few I see and would really like them of course

I havent discussed meeting in the middle or aiding in delivering at least part way., But the fellas been pretty workable on everything else..

What would you consider the best method to bring this up or discuss it and better my favor in this?

[if it matters., ones for personal and the others a flipping opportunity. I mean well.]

 

[honestherman]

Just be Flying Zombie with whoever you are dealing with. Its the best way.

 

[deven_science]

I'm terrible at haggling, and I don't think of it as the bike business, I think of it as the bike hobby, so I have no advice for you.

Good luck!

 

[Flying Zombie]

business is more a euphemism here.. its not literal,. just a manner of saying this is something you get your hands dirty with...

 

[LukeTheJoker]

From your other post it looks like you did pretty well anyway Flying Zombie!

Luke.

 

[Flying Zombie]

Yea., this was both for that and the expansion of the groups more novice information for rookies like me =] Thanks again, Luke ^.6

 

[honestherman]

I can not help but chime in on this. Don't anyone get bent out of shape. I am not talking about any specific person.
After reading this. I got to thinking..... There are several people on sites. who are obviously NOT into this for the hobby. They just bring bikes to the bike sites to sell. Way overpriced. They watch too much TV
Most bikes sell at a fair price here. Then there are the overinflated prices. Just gotta shake my head when I see average girls bikes listed for such crazy prices. When buying or selling anything polite fair and honest go a long way in my book, Especially if you are in it for the hobby.
Some people dwell on the money all day long. Its just a hobby for me. If I don't get this one. There will be another one that will come my way soon. Just like Zombie finally got his deal.

 

[ODDER]

I can not help but chime in on this. Don't anyone get bent out of shape. I am not talking about any specific person.
After reading this. I got to thinking..... There are several people on sites. who are obviously NOT into this for the hobby. They just bring bikes to the bike sites to sell. Way overpriced. They watch too much TV
Most bikes sell at a fair price here. Then there are the overinflated prices. Just gotta shake my head when I see average girls bikes listed for such crazy prices. When buying or selling anything polite fair and honest go a long way in my book, Especially if you are in it for the hobby.
Some people dwell on the money all day long. Its just a hobby for me. If I don't get this one. There will be another one that will come my way soon. Just like Zombie finally got his deal.

I see this a lot too. It seems there have been a lot of overpriced parts and bikes on many sites. When I sell things I'm usually just trying to recoup my cash to buy other bikes or parts I need/want. I like to trade mostly. That way both parties get what their after. The guys that are in it for the money rather than the love of the hobby are usually easy to spot. There are still a large amount of folks who do it for the love and that's what makes it fun. At least for me anyway.

 

[GuitarlCarl]

It's the same with my other hobby. Doesn't matter if it's just a thing to you, it's gold to someone and you have to be vigilant to get parts you want. Then the rivet counters come along and fufu your efforts... (is it really a telecaster?) I like the deal honest ethic and if it doesn't go your way, well it's just a thing...


Carl.

 

[Flying Zombie]

I appreciate all the feedback and opinions, fellas. Again., I didnt want to give the impression this post was "Business related" but one of these days my mind will work before my hands and I'll get it right the first time..

I like the views, and completely agree for the most part., even here you can find a few overstretched ideas on worth., but even as a hobby-ist., you have to understand., maybe they arent in it for the money either, and that little Slik Chik means enough to them to ask that much for it., as some say,. its all worth what someones willing to pay and when it comes to selling., I find more people price high because they arent ready as apposed to intentionally inflating the market like Pickers and Evilbay help with., I wouldnt pop on a 75$ slik chik unless someone converted it over to a 3-5 speed., and even then its worth all that in parts for me to donor to another ..cooler ride to me., but whos to say there isnt a girl out there looking for just that., [its rare but..] it happens., sometimes its just love for the bike they had all these years and going value means Not to them.

I can only finish by thanking you guys again for the props and explaining Im grateful to be a part of a group with lads who see the whole picture for what it is.

[Ride shots of the WesternFlyer coming today!]
Thats right., already up and running


[Used the wheels off Miss Columbia Temporarily.]
Not that they're OG *original* to the bike., but they are my only working pair right now