Author Topic: One Less Guzzi Dealership - RIP Matthews Fun Machines, MFM merged threadfest (Read 17584 times)

Ncdan · « **Reply #30 on:** February 20, 2019, 08:18:24 AM »

Quote from: rocker59 on February 20, 2019, 07:39:02 AM

I wonder how...

I ask the same question. He said several disgruntled customers who bought Guzzis and couldn't get their bikes fixed while under warranty due to the lack of available parts in a timely manor and the reps wouldn't return their calls for weeks on end was causing a bad reputation environment for the dealership. He said that was contributing to a overall reduction in sales. I don't know but a rumor of poor service can hurt a business.

bad Chad · « **Reply #31 on:** February 20, 2019, 08:39:57 AM »

Quote from: TN Mark on February 20, 2019, 12:32:19 AM

Since it seems most at Mathews were surprised to hear they were sold, they (Mathews) very likely no longer have a say in the matter. It's up to the new owners to either say yes or no to Guzzi bikes and service. Since it's been posted the new owners haven't made a commitment to Piaggio, I'd say current Guzzi owners need to find another place for service. Perhaps the new owners will pony up to become an authorized Guzzi dealer.

"Basic Maintenance" on a Moto Guzzi isn't much different from many other motorcycles. Meaning it's straightforward and relatively easy. Area owners will either have to do it themselves or find an independent repair shop. The latter, for a Moto Guzzi, could prove difficult. Likely the biggest local hurdle is if you need EFI software updates and insist on a dealer for it. Thankfully, the aftermarket is typically a better option anyway.

Dealers come and go, not just for Guzzi, for just about all motorcycle brands. It's a very difficult motorcycle business climate today. Even more so with slow moving inventory and brands. Someone will step up and service and maybe even sell new Guzzis. I'm sure Piaggio is doing what they can to bring on another dealer in the area.

You should know soon whether or not the new owners bought the Guzzi inventory or if it will be sent elsewhere. It's a simple question that only needs to be asked.

I think you’re missing my point Mark. I’m speaking to the subject of customers who have bikes already in the shop. Perhaps the new ownership has no desire to take care of Mathews customers, but Mathews management has at the very least an ethical responsibility to do the right thing, and make sure that those customers aren’t left blowing in the wind. That’s part of the reason relationships in business develop, to help assure just such a mess doesn’t happen.

bobbyfromnc · « **Reply #32 on:** February 20, 2019, 08:56:37 AM »

Well if this is true all of us who have purchased Guzzi's will have to give them a little time to see how the chips fall. Personally Either MFM or the new owners have an obligation to do the right thing for it's Guzzi customers. I have an extended warranty contract with them. I expect some sort of communication. If not there are other means of getting either MFM or New owners attention legally. I have no problem doing basic maintenance, but I did pay for warranty and therefore I have let them do it for record keeping purposes. I want to think they will do the right thing. I like Tee and those guy's. BK

Dilliw · « **Reply #33 on:** February 20, 2019, 08:59:23 AM »

Please find out what their plans are for the inventory. They had a Nero Gentleman 1400 last time I was there and I'd love to steal that one!

rocker59 · « **Reply #34 on:** February 20, 2019, 09:42:29 AM »

Quote from: Dilliw on February 20, 2019, 08:59:23 AM

Please find out what their plans are for the inventory. They had a Nero Gentleman 1400 last time I was there and I'd love to steal that one!

What is a "Nero Gentleman 1400"?

Dilliw · « **Reply #35 on:** February 20, 2019, 09:48:45 AM »

Quote from: rocker59 on February 20, 2019, 09:42:29 AM

What is a "Nero Gentleman 1400"?

It's a Touring model with a similar paint scheme to the '98 EVs. I saw one at the WNY rally a couple of years ago and later when I was in Matthews.

rocker59 · « **Reply #36 on:** February 20, 2019, 10:14:16 AM »

Quote from: Dilliw on February 20, 2019, 09:48:45 AM

It's a Touring model with a similar paint scheme to the '98 EVs. I saw one at the WNY rally a couple of years ago and later when I was in Matthews.

OK. It's the name of a color. Black with silver tank side panels. Got it.

Wonder why they didn't stick to all Italian and call it "Nero Signore" ??? Yeah, Yeah... Guzzi...

kingoffleece · « **Reply #37 on:** February 20, 2019, 10:29:20 AM »

kustomwerks in Buffalo is dumping Guzzi. They have one 2017 bike in that color new on closeout.

Dilliw · « **Reply #38 on:** February 20, 2019, 10:33:43 AM »

Quote from: kingoffleece on February 20, 2019, 10:29:20 AM

kustomwerks in Buffalo is dumping Guzzi. They have one 2017 bike in that color new on closeout.

Probably the one I saw at the Rally! They set up a tent and had some demo rides back in 2017.

I just checked the Matthews website and they are showing one in inventory.

Trialsman · « **Reply #39 on:** February 20, 2019, 10:37:25 AM »

Just got off the phone. They are transferring all calls to Matthews now to Team Charlotte, the new owners. Doors are closed and new inventory is being moved. I ask about Guzzi and the response was "not at this time." The person I talked with needed to talk with Tee, who will still be working for them, about my deposit, bike, and my riding gear. They were all blindsided at Matthews about the deal.

Devildog · « **Reply #40 on:** February 20, 2019, 11:57:10 AM »

Quote from: flip on February 19, 2019, 01:15:19 PM

I'm off to Matthews to pick up my Guzzi. It's been sleeting here since before lunch. Grrr. I hate Charlotte traffic on a good day.

Medic Andy must have a local mechanic...try asking him with a PM.
Lannis is right about Moto Richmond. Guzzi, Triumph, and recently KTM. They seem to be here for the long term.

TN Mark · « **Reply #41 on:** February 20, 2019, 09:34:31 PM »

Quote from: Trialsman on February 20, 2019, 10:37:25 AM

Just got off the phone. They are transferring all calls to Matthews now to Team Charlotte, the new owners. Doors are closed and new inventory is being moved. I ask about Guzzi and the response was "not at this time." The person I talked with needed to talk with Tee, who will still be working for them, about my deposit, bike, and my riding gear. They were all blindsided at Matthews about the deal.

There's the answer, "not at this time". That means anyone who has a Moto Guzzi in that shop 'may' need to pick it up. Depending upon what the Guzzi actually needs. Tires/battery/brakes etc, maybe Team Charlotte will perform that work. Any type of Guzzi warranty, I'd guess there is little to no chance of Team Charlotte doing anything with it because they aren't a Moto Guzzi dealer. Team Charlotte 'owes' you nothing, they're not a Guzzi dealer and the old Guzzi dealer is out of business. Therefore no one who formerly worked for MFM can do anything regarding Moto Guzzi without approval from the decision makers at Team Charlotte.

Trialsman,

Your deposit on a Moto Guzzi will very likely be returned or it will get transferred to an authorized Moto Guzzi dealer. But the company you had an agreement with no longer exists. Of course it's a goofy situation but one I suspect will be fully worked out once you can speak directly (and calmly) to someone in charge at Team Charlotte. You're obviously in an uncomfortable situation. Locating and getting your personal property from the MFM building 'could' prove a bit more dicey than any written agreement you had with MFM.

I truly look forward to reading that your situation has been worked out quickly and fully.

RightD · « **Reply #42 on:** February 20, 2019, 09:53:12 PM »

Add another to the list of the walking wounded... Word is that there was significant upheaval at La Moto Washington over the summer/fall (DC area).

Apparently there were ownership issues that led to the departure of all of the experienced staff (both sales and service) and ultimately resulted in the sale of the dealership.

Hopefully they get their issues worked out.

- RightD

Mayor_of_BBQ · « **Reply #43 on:** February 21, 2019, 04:16:14 PM »

Anyone in NC or Western NC can get their guzzi serviced with Earl Totman in Black Mountain (in the industrial park with Pisgah Brewing)

He's a big loop guy but last time I was there he has a several modern V7's, a LMIV, a Coppa Italia, 850T, and a couple of those weird Raven bikes with the sideways guzzi motor (one is set up as a single cylinder for vintage racing!?!?!)

He has ZERO web presence, but he knows his stuff and has a great shop dog... He did a great job with my v65 and he's very responsive. I can PM his number to any NC guys needing service. Obviously warranty work is a no-go but otherwise he's a great resource.

Privateer Connection · « **Reply #44 on:** February 26, 2019, 05:19:12 PM »

Just a FYI my name is Chuck and I am the owner of Privateer Connection in Rock Hill, SC. We are not a OEM dealer however the tech that did all the Guzzi work at Mathews Fun Machines is now working here at Privateer Connection. We can't do any OEM warranty work but we will gladly help with any service and repair work. Feel free to call myself or Nick and we will help you any way we can. We are open M-F 9-6 and our shop number is 803-980-7200

bobbyfromnc · « **Reply #45 on:** February 27, 2019, 07:25:47 AM »

Quote from: Privateer Connection on February 26, 2019, 05:19:12 PM

Just a FYI my name is Chuck and I am the owner of Privateer Connection in Rock Hill, SC. We are not a OEM dealer however the tech that did all the Guzzi work at Mathews Fun Machines is now working here at Privateer Connection. We can't do any OEM warranty work but we will gladly help with any service and repair work. Feel free to call myself or Nick and we will help you any way we can. We are open M-F 9-6 and our shop number is 803-980-7200

That's Good News... Nick is the man. BK

PeteS · « **Reply #46 on:** February 27, 2019, 07:36:38 AM »

Quote from: kingoffleece on February 20, 2019, 10:29:20 AM

kustomwerks in Buffalo is dumping Guzzi. They have one 2017 bike in that color new on closeout.

What do you think the odds are of Bob Weaver picking them up? I'd really like to pick up a V85 but every day thats looking more difficult to do.

Pete

rocker59 · « **Reply #47 on:** February 27, 2019, 07:39:36 AM »

Quote from: Privateer Connection on February 26, 2019, 05:19:12 PM

Just a FYI my name is Chuck and I am the owner of Privateer Connection in Rock Hill, SC. We are not a OEM dealer however the tech that did all the Guzzi work at Mathews Fun Machines is now working here at Privateer Connection. We can't do any OEM warranty work but we will gladly help with any service and repair work. Feel free to call myself or Nick and we will help you any way we can. We are open M-F 9-6 and our shop number is 803-980-7200

Thanks for letting us know!

bobbyfromnc · « **Reply #48 on:** February 27, 2019, 07:52:03 AM »

So then... It seems some of what I've pieced together is, from Management and on down the chain from there MFM employees were taken by complete surprise when they arrived for work where they were met by the Gestapo of the new owners... IE Team Charlotte on that Tuesday morning and were told to get their belongings and Que sera sera. This totally leaves a very bad taste in my mouth about the new owners. MFM machines have sold many Guzzi's over the past few years. I called and expressed my concerns to the new ownership and basically said why are you guy's thumbing your noses at all these guzzi owners. It's not like you can go to the other side of town to another authorized dealer for service and warranty work. It is said new ownership is talking with Guzzi but to be honest even if they do retain Guzzi and Aprilla after the way MFM staff were treated by Team Charlotte and the old owners of MFM I think I'm done. BK

Dilliw · « **Reply #49 on:** February 27, 2019, 08:06:40 AM »

Quote from: Privateer Connection on February 26, 2019, 05:19:12 PM

Just a FYI my name is Chuck and I am the owner of Privateer Connection in Rock Hill, SC. We are not a OEM dealer however the tech that did all the Guzzi work at Mathews Fun Machines is now working here at Privateer Connection. We can't do any OEM warranty work but we will gladly help with any service and repair work. Feel free to call myself or Nick and we will help you any way we can. We are open M-F 9-6 and our shop number is 803-980-7200

Chuck did tires for my Griso and also fixed one of the leaky spokes. I'm sure he could handle most out of warranty work!

George

bobbyfromnc · « **Reply #50 on:** February 27, 2019, 12:50:55 PM »

R I P Matthews Fun Machines, the dealership where I purchased my Moto Guzzi. Made some good friends there, had my bike serviced there inspite of the 200 mile round trip (I had no other choice, Guzzi riders understand this). Relationships are important to me. I know and understand that business is business but what angers me about it is the way the Management and Employees were treated by the conglomerate who purchased MFM when they showed up for what was supposed to be your normal work day and be told, gather your belongings and Que Sera Sera... Mind you Mfm Sales had been in business for close to 40 years. Can you imagine how those people felt. Stunned I think would be an understatement. Imagine your bike is in the shop for service to be called to come get your bike because the Conglomerate doesn't sell/service Moto Guzzi. All MFM stock was relocated to the Conglomerates Super Center on Freedom Drive in Charlotte. Personally I find this whole thing unpalatable. BK. Grrrrrrr....

Rick in WNY · « **Reply #51 on:** February 27, 2019, 01:07:03 PM »

Dang... that's a horrible way to sell a business, and an even worse way to tell the employees.

And I agree, that kind of treatment would not endear me to the new management.

Lannis · « **Reply #52 on:** February 27, 2019, 04:51:11 PM »

Quote from: Rick in WNY on February 27, 2019, 01:07:03 PM

Dang... that's a horrible way to sell a business, and an even worse way to tell the employees.

And I agree, that kind of treatment would not endear me to the new management.

If they do business with their employees that way ("pack your sh!t and get out"), imagine what they'll do to their customers .... !

Lannis

roadscum · « **Reply #53 on:** February 27, 2019, 09:59:54 PM »

This is just another example of dealers dropping the marque. It happens all the time. Maybe a factor is low profit margins, low volume, and cheap ass customer who never see a dealer again until they need major works. One measure dealers use is dollars earned per square foot of showroom floor, Guzzi loses. Another is new product turn over, Guzzi loses Another profit per model in the shop...…. again Guzzi loses. I remember when there were dealers that sold only Guzzi, as far as I know none are left, seems they were able to sustain profitability.

Pissed and making a scene at Matthews accomplishes nothing except burn a bridge you may need some day, and it'll say a lot about your character and style.Word may spread to other dealerships in the area. Makes no sense to me, seems childish and immature.
Dealer have the right to accept or reject any repair work however manufactures require dealer to perform warranty work on the brands they sell.

Paul

Kev m · « **Reply #54 on:** February 28, 2019, 05:12:44 AM »

Quote from: roadscum on February 27, 2019, 09:59:54 PM

This is just another example of dealers dropping the marque. It happens all the time. Maybe a factor is low profit margins, low volume, and cheap ass customer who never see a dealer again until they need major works. One measure dealers use is dollars earned per square foot of showroom floor, Guzzi loses. Another is new product turn over, Guzzi loses Another profit per model in the shop...…. again Guzzi loses. I remember when there were dealers that sold only Guzzi, as far as I know none are left, seems they were able to sustain profitability.

Pissed and making a scene at Matthews accomplishes nothing except burn a bridge you may need some day, and it'll say a lot about your character and style.Word may spread to other dealerships in the area. Makes no sense to me, seems childish and immature.
Dealer have the right to accept or reject any repair work however manufactures require dealer to perform warranty work on the brands they sell.

Paul

“Impressive. Every word in that sentence was wrong.” – Luke Skywalker

Did you perchance read anything after the first few posts?!?

bobbyfromnc · « **Reply #55 on:** February 28, 2019, 05:52:27 AM »

I agree with Kev M... "Did you perchance read anything after the first few posts?!?"

I wondered the same thing. As far as I know I haven't or anyone else for that fact been ugly or thrown the new dealership under the bus, I think they did that all by themselves. My two cents.

sdcr · « **Reply #56 on:** February 28, 2019, 11:16:02 AM »

Quote from: roadscum on February 27, 2019, 09:59:54 PM

This is just another example of dealers dropping the marque. It happens all the time....and cheap ass customer who never see a dealer again until they need major works....

Paul

Paul,

So, Moto Guzzi buyers are the problem? That is about as short sighted a view as the new owners on MFM dealership.

Dilliw · « **Reply #57 on:** February 28, 2019, 11:23:12 AM »

Quote from: sdcr on February 28, 2019, 11:16:02 AM

So, Moto Guzzi buyers are the problem? That is about as short sighted a view as the new owners on MFM dealership.

Yes! At least that's what the Moto Guzzi NA rep told Orwig.

bobbyfromnc · « **Reply #58 on:** February 28, 2019, 11:57:07 AM »

Quote from: rocker59 on February 20, 2019, 07:39:02 AM

I wonder how...

The Greensboro Indian Dealer is a really nice place but their sales floor is limited in size, I'm guessing the comment was over taking up floor space for bikes that don't move as quick as their Indian offerings would be my guess for the comment as well as not being prepared to do basic work with certain stock for normal things, plus dealing with Guzzi on top of that.

Trialsman · « **Reply #59 on:** March 02, 2019, 04:23:59 PM »

I just got back from a film showing of the CABDR at our new KTM/Indian dealership here in Pittsburgh. Beside seeing some of the areas I have ridden over the years I was talking with the owner. Now understand this is a little self-serving, but I found he had contemplated taking on Guzzi as a line. I proceeded to tell him how Greensburg, Wooster, and several other dealers in our region have gone belly up. This, in effect, would leave a very large area around Western PA and Eastern OH, as well as WV that could use a dealer. If anyone in this area around Pittsburgh would support his taking on Guzzi it might be a good idea to shoot him an email and let him know. I am interested because it is 5mi from my house, but we need more dealers and this area is wide open now. Maybe it is worth a shot - who knows it might benefit us all in the long run? This is the link you could inquire about taking on Guzzi and maybe stem the tide of all these dealers dropping our bike !!!!!

https://www.pittcycles.com/contact-email-motorcycles-dealership--xcontact

News:

Author Topic: One Less Guzzi Dealership - RIP Matthews Fun Machines, MFM merged threadfest (Read 17584 times)