Hello Blog Reader. Please come into my office and have a seat, thank you for coming to this meeting.
We have something very important to discuss, and it’s something you’ve been trying to ignore for some time. Ignoring something does not make it go away, you might’ve noticed. Let’s get right to the bad news; we will likely never again see gas prices in the $2 per gallon range. It is likely that we will see gas in the $5+ range within the next two months. This is very hard news, I would like a tissue too. We HAVE to acknowledge this change, because ignoring only hurts us. To acknowledge it fully, we have to deal with it, and the easiest way is to start in our own homes.
In your anger at the situation you might ask “what makes you so smart about this?” You’re feeling a loss, and that’s normal. I can discuss this with you as I’ve done it, through one of the wettest winters in Southern California history. If we work together, this can be easier. I will give you my experience and references. Your relationship with your car must change, and it’ll be OK. The quality of your life might even be better...
As we meet quietly on this blog, we’ll discuss the steps to take; some difficult and some easy. My goal as your guide is to help you keep your cash in your pocket, and get the things done that life demands. As you leave today, I’d like to reflect on the concept of “I can live without a car”. Don’t think of the obstacles, but of three positives.
See you next week. Bring a note pad, or hook up your printer!
Monday, June 02, 2008
Friday, May 23, 2008
QBP raises order minimum to $175.
QBP positives:
1. A beautiful Manual that now must be ordered by each store individually.
2. The widest selection of parts from all categories.
3. Suspension and Brake Tuning Center.
To us, QBP is a valued partner. But today they've raised their minimum dollar amount by $25.
1. A beautiful Manual that now must be ordered by each store individually.
2. The widest selection of parts from all categories.
3. Suspension and Brake Tuning Center.
To us, QBP is a valued partner. But today they've raised their minimum dollar amount by $25.
Let's think of the positives of KHS/Raleigh-DB/SBS:
1. They are located closer to our stores, so your order gets delivered quicker and at lower cost.
2. All of them are competing for our business, so we get better prices.
3. Their order minimums are MUCH less than QBP's.
We appreciate all our business partners. However, we'd suggest that when you form a customer Special Order you balance these factors, and order from QBP only if the other vendors don't have what you need. It's better for the customer, and it's better for us.
1. They are located closer to our stores, so your order gets delivered quicker and at lower cost.
2. All of them are competing for our business, so we get better prices.
3. Their order minimums are MUCH less than QBP's.
We appreciate all our business partners. However, we'd suggest that when you form a customer Special Order you balance these factors, and order from QBP only if the other vendors don't have what you need. It's better for the customer, and it's better for us.
Monday, May 19, 2008
It's a buffet of answers!
Special Orders- Special orders for customers now go direct to the vendor or distributor, without involving the buying team. A special order is usually a single item order, and is different than a parts order or employee purchase.
QBP Parts Manual- No manuals are available thru Corporate, or the training staff. The only way to get this leviathan manual is to use a STORE EXPENSE PO, and call the order in to QBP. The cost for the manual is about $10, and is definitely worth it. We are NOT currently having stores order parts for repairs or for their showcases.
Chain Lube, Grease, Degreaser- Available thru Execusystems, ordered via a Manager. Please do not 100% out your floor stock, as it increases the "shrink" numbers for your store.
Pictures of problem parts to Vendors- So you're handling a bike part issue, and the vendor requests a digital picture as proof of the problem. You may have noticed that manager computers cannot email outside our company. Solution: email the picture to me with exceptionally clear directive of to whom I should forward that message to. Having the target email in the subject line is a decent idea.
Post Mount Disc Brakes- Disc brake calipers mount to forks by the "International Standard" or by a "Post Mount". "Post Mounts" require the bolt length to be longer for required thread engagement, and are becoming more widely used. If you or a customer have stripped out a "post mount" it is not a warranty issue, and the responsible party gets to pay for the replacement lower leg assembly and installation.
"Rack Install class is focused on Yakima, but my store also sells Thule"- Our Rack Install class IS based on Yakima systems, as both systems have comparable parts. A Q-tower and 400XT Aero Foot tower both do the same thing, but all of our stores stock Yakima parts. If you feel you need more info on Thule systems and training please navigate over to www.RackItScience.com and you'll have all your questions answered.
QBP Parts Manual- No manuals are available thru Corporate, or the training staff. The only way to get this leviathan manual is to use a STORE EXPENSE PO, and call the order in to QBP. The cost for the manual is about $10, and is definitely worth it. We are NOT currently having stores order parts for repairs or for their showcases.
Chain Lube, Grease, Degreaser- Available thru Execusystems, ordered via a Manager. Please do not 100% out your floor stock, as it increases the "shrink" numbers for your store.
Pictures of problem parts to Vendors- So you're handling a bike part issue, and the vendor requests a digital picture as proof of the problem. You may have noticed that manager computers cannot email outside our company. Solution: email the picture to me with exceptionally clear directive of to whom I should forward that message to. Having the target email in the subject line is a decent idea.
Post Mount Disc Brakes- Disc brake calipers mount to forks by the "International Standard" or by a "Post Mount". "Post Mounts" require the bolt length to be longer for required thread engagement, and are becoming more widely used. If you or a customer have stripped out a "post mount" it is not a warranty issue, and the responsible party gets to pay for the replacement lower leg assembly and installation.
"Rack Install class is focused on Yakima, but my store also sells Thule"- Our Rack Install class IS based on Yakima systems, as both systems have comparable parts. A Q-tower and 400XT Aero Foot tower both do the same thing, but all of our stores stock Yakima parts. If you feel you need more info on Thule systems and training please navigate over to www.RackItScience.com and you'll have all your questions answered.
Friday, April 18, 2008
Sport Chalet Jerseys- A sneak peek...
We are finally getting the jerseys we've been asking for!
You can see our current jersey in your store.
I'm not certain if/how much "Sport Chalet" logos will show on this one (None are on this proof), but I'd pay retail for this argyle one! (Should be arriving any day now.)
And in mid-to-late May we'll see this "Alpe d'Huez" design.
I hope you're as excited to see these coming in, please help your customers to see them!
Monday, April 14, 2008
An Open Letter Among the Bike Trainers
Confidence or Convenience?
In our group of trainers I’ve been getting more requests lately to change things around, like to just certify someone outside of the class, or have ‘em attend day three of a MM series to demonstrate their skills, or to run a candidate through a series out of order in order to “get him certified”.
Before you ask for this, please ask yourself why you would do this. I’m been tempted in the past, and may have made choices that I’d later regretted. Most of the justifications for an exception will be related to:
a. “He’s really experienced”
b. “He can’t get to the class due to… school/family/kitties/lunch money/whatever”
c. “The store can’t spare his hours for training”
These responses are considered by you because of your:
1. Confidence- “This person presents himself so well (Or helped ME out of a problem) that I can’t possibly waste his time in class.”
2. Convenience- “I can then get another person certified, and/or a manager off my back.”
I understand these things. I once cancelled a Corporate meeting to certify someone 75 miles away. I was there on time, with tools set up for a one-on-one day with an associate with over 10 years of Sport Chalet experience. All three tests and samples laid out like a pro. The guy showed up with an issue that got him dismissed for the day; session rescheduled. I didn’t respect my time or the “Program”, and wasted a day for it. Called myself a "dummy" all the way home too.
If you have the chance to work with a “really experienced” associate in a MM series, your day will go easier. You may even learn something from him, or at least have an easier class! The MM clinic is designed with escalating levels of mechanical participation from the associate, with time between sessions to review and integrate the previous lessons. By running the class in order we reinforce the previous class, which is a huge benefit to all of the associates. You may not be aware of it, but some people learn primarily thru “listening”, “seeing” or “doing”. Depending on the complexity of the demonstration, it may be all three.
Finally, what if their store “can’t spare the associate”? This is going to sound harsh, but that’s not your problem. If they don’t value critical training, it’s a big indication of other problems outside of your control. Stores that support a high degree of proficiency in their associates ALSO have higher SPMH. This is not something I’ve just made up; it’s a proven “action-reaction” linkage. By training their associates, they get better retention of that person. When they spend time with you they learn how to solve problems easier, and how to get questions answered in a way that they will learn no where else. Your time with them has a value that cannot be calculated.
Why would you help to deny these benefits to someone? (I’m not gonna touch the legal side of this here- call me for that one.) There’s a hundred “reasons”, but why? Is it your confidence, or your convenience getting in the way? Stick with the program, Gentlemen. It’s everyone’s best move.
In our group of trainers I’ve been getting more requests lately to change things around, like to just certify someone outside of the class, or have ‘em attend day three of a MM series to demonstrate their skills, or to run a candidate through a series out of order in order to “get him certified”.
Before you ask for this, please ask yourself why you would do this. I’m been tempted in the past, and may have made choices that I’d later regretted. Most of the justifications for an exception will be related to:
a. “He’s really experienced”
b. “He can’t get to the class due to… school/family/kitties/lunch money/whatever”
c. “The store can’t spare his hours for training”
These responses are considered by you because of your:
1. Confidence- “This person presents himself so well (Or helped ME out of a problem) that I can’t possibly waste his time in class.”
2. Convenience- “I can then get another person certified, and/or a manager off my back.”
I understand these things. I once cancelled a Corporate meeting to certify someone 75 miles away. I was there on time, with tools set up for a one-on-one day with an associate with over 10 years of Sport Chalet experience. All three tests and samples laid out like a pro. The guy showed up with an issue that got him dismissed for the day; session rescheduled. I didn’t respect my time or the “Program”, and wasted a day for it. Called myself a "dummy" all the way home too.
If you have the chance to work with a “really experienced” associate in a MM series, your day will go easier. You may even learn something from him, or at least have an easier class! The MM clinic is designed with escalating levels of mechanical participation from the associate, with time between sessions to review and integrate the previous lessons. By running the class in order we reinforce the previous class, which is a huge benefit to all of the associates. You may not be aware of it, but some people learn primarily thru “listening”, “seeing” or “doing”. Depending on the complexity of the demonstration, it may be all three.
Finally, what if their store “can’t spare the associate”? This is going to sound harsh, but that’s not your problem. If they don’t value critical training, it’s a big indication of other problems outside of your control. Stores that support a high degree of proficiency in their associates ALSO have higher SPMH. This is not something I’ve just made up; it’s a proven “action-reaction” linkage. By training their associates, they get better retention of that person. When they spend time with you they learn how to solve problems easier, and how to get questions answered in a way that they will learn no where else. Your time with them has a value that cannot be calculated.
Why would you help to deny these benefits to someone? (I’m not gonna touch the legal side of this here- call me for that one.) There’s a hundred “reasons”, but why? Is it your confidence, or your convenience getting in the way? Stick with the program, Gentlemen. It’s everyone’s best move.
Monday, March 17, 2008
Have you tried a 29'er?
The 29-inch wheel size has "infected" the bike industry. I don't mean that as a negative, but it jumped from one mfr to another, and now everybody's got it. When this craze started I felt that it was just another fashion that would pass quickly. It has hung on long enough that most bike companies are offering at least one bike with them. At the last Interbike Demo event I got to ride a Marin Alpine Trail 29’er, and had some solid impressions. One of them is that it's not a fad...
1. The larger wheel size rides smoother, due it’s greater diameter. There’s a number of explanations out there, but you’re using a larger size hoop to roll over the obstacles. This reduces the effective size of trail irregularities which feels smoother. I was riding it in rocky desert terrain, and was very surprised. I had that “Hey it’s not MY bike, PIN IT!” thought from the start and was riding much more aggressively. It was very nice!
2. Due to the larger diameter, the bottom bracket sits lower to the ground. The net effect of this is that the rider is centered lower between the axles, so the bike carves turns in a more stable manner. I felt this on the first turn, and loved the stability. In the sketchy rock and sand I could trust this bike to roll thru the turn I had planned.
3. Possible negatives are A. The greater weight of the larger rim may reduce the agility of the bike. B. Different tube size, so walking out may be more likely if you get a "multi-flat" and are alone. C. Longer spokes may lead to a more flexible/weaker wheel. These are all fairly unlikely, but worth considering.
Any design can have negatives if you’re looking for them. In my view the 29” wheel size is a great alternative for XC riders that are clear on the non-jumper/non-downhill focus of this wheel size. Tire widths for this diameter rim vary from 1.125” to 2.3”, and rim widths also vary to match that range. One of our trainers has a fixed-gear bike built as a 29’er with Rhyno Lite rims- it’s really durable.
Summary- if you haven’t tried one, what are you waiting for?
Tuesday, March 04, 2008
Quick-Release legal news
A New Jersey legislator has proposed a law banning quick-release devices on bicycle wheels. If enacted, it would only affect New Jersey but would also set a precedent for all other states. This item bears watching, as it could cause a sudden change in all bikes for sale nationwide.
Also, the case that spawned this law involves a bike sold by Walmart, who did not educate the customer in anyway on quick-release operation OR get a waiver signed. Walmart is not assisting the fight against this law in any form. "Big Thanks to Walmart".
Additional info: Montague Quick Release, Experts predict this to be used for all wheel QR's
From BicycleRetailer.com today:
COSTA MESA, CA (BRAIN)—Following an initial contribution of $7500 last summer, the NBDA Board has voted to commit another $7500 to defend the ubiquitous quick-release axle.
The latest contribution will be matched by the supplier side of the industry, said NBDA executive director Fred Clements.
The fight is against a ban on quick-release axles that has been proposed in the New Jersey legislature. While the law, if passed, would affect only New Jersey, it might set a national trend, making the fight a national issue.
The bill exempts axles that also have a “secondary safety device,” but fork tips apparently do not qualify for the exemption and there is currently no other technology that would.
The proposed law was a response to injuries to children riding Wal-Mart bikes with quick-release wheels, Clements said. But with the exception of some high-end BMX bikes, the kids bikes sold by independent dealers do not have quick-release axles anyway. The New Jersey bill as written would ban quick-releases on all bikes, adult as well as juvenile.
Funds contributed by the NBDA and the Bicycle Products Suppliers Association are to be used to hire a lobbyist to make the case against the bill.
Also, the case that spawned this law involves a bike sold by Walmart, who did not educate the customer in anyway on quick-release operation OR get a waiver signed. Walmart is not assisting the fight against this law in any form. "Big Thanks to Walmart".
Additional info: Montague Quick Release, Experts predict this to be used for all wheel QR's
From BicycleRetailer.com today:
NBDA Adds $7500 To Quick-Release Fight |
|
COSTA MESA, CA (BRAIN)—Following an initial contribution of $7500 last summer, the NBDA Board has voted to commit another $7500 to defend the ubiquitous quick-release axle.
The latest contribution will be matched by the supplier side of the industry, said NBDA executive director Fred Clements.
The fight is against a ban on quick-release axles that has been proposed in the New Jersey legislature. While the law, if passed, would affect only New Jersey, it might set a national trend, making the fight a national issue.
The bill exempts axles that also have a “secondary safety device,” but fork tips apparently do not qualify for the exemption and there is currently no other technology that would.
The proposed law was a response to injuries to children riding Wal-Mart bikes with quick-release wheels, Clements said. But with the exception of some high-end BMX bikes, the kids bikes sold by independent dealers do not have quick-release axles anyway. The New Jersey bill as written would ban quick-releases on all bikes, adult as well as juvenile.
Funds contributed by the NBDA and the Bicycle Products Suppliers Association are to be used to hire a lobbyist to make the case against the bill.
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