Truth and Consequences

As mentioned in my prior post, I am realizing that to take this to the next step, which is beyond solely word-of-mouth promotion to get the word out, one of the consequences is that I will not be making anymore friends (or keeping them) with the bike shop set (ie the owners). Now, there are a few forward thinking shop owners (you know who you are...) whom I have very good symbiotic relationships with. I am grateful for those relationships and I will work to grow them. Anyway, here's why... What I am doing brings to light their lack of focus, incompetence, and unprofessionalism. It's not that they intend to possess these qualities, most just have them (and few are doing anything about it). When I am asked to evaluate a repair or inspect a bike (new or otherwise) and I find blatant errors, it is my responsibility to inform my client what is wrong and why. To speak the truth, there is no other way but to say, "this was installed/adjusted/spec'd improperly." This does not make the shop look good. Another aspect is the "de-programming" that I do. The mis-information that is spread by some shops is enormous and wide spread. I'm not talking about opinions about one thing or another, just facts. This will indeed take some work... Speaking of work, I have get back to it. -John