Jay Ridley replies to my readers regarding their comments after my article “Ridley Motorcycles Trying A Come Back ”
“Reader. I am surprised and grateful to see the continued interest in our motorcycles. In 1995, my father and I started with a dream to build the ultimate ¾ scale motorcycle. Over the company’s fourteen year history our business grew exponentially with the help of our investors, vendors, the media, service centers and of course each and every Ridley Owner and Dealer. Like every other manufacturer, we began to feel the economic conditions change when lending requirements were tightened on retail buyers in 2007. Unforunately, we were not able to make the necessary changes to keep the business funded through these tough times. This left us with several significant liabilities that created a situation we could not overcome without a swift recovery in the market.
Through nearly all of 2009, Ridley Motorcycle was actively seeking a partner who could capitalize the company through a partnership or outright purchase of the company. Eventually, the closing of Ridley Motorcycle was forced by our primary lender, Midfirst Bank. Despite having taken them a buyer for the company who was willing to guarantee the company’s loan, the Bank refused our solution and chose to auction the company’s assets. Our company was committed to making the dream of riding come true for thousands of riders. We combined a low seat height with a lighter vehicle weight and a fully automatic transmission in a traditional American motorcycle style to create the perfect easy to ride motorcycle. We knew when we started building our first model that it would not be for everyone. We purposely built each model so that it did not complete with any other motorcycle in the market. From the beginning every effort was made with good intentions to build a strong brand with an excellent reputation.
As the comments suggest on this blog, all of the company’s vendors took a hit. The average vendor was owed less than $400. We made every effort to stop ordering parts and even returned parts when we knew that we could not pay for them. Most of the vendors accepted our returns; however, some did not for obvious reasons. It was our newest vendors who we had not done years of business with that lost significantly. The owners of our motorcycles also stood to lose a great deal.
I am passionate about our product. I also regret the situation that developed that caused the company to close and ultimately file for bankruptcy. Ridley Genuine Parts was founded after the bankruptcy to provide support for the owners of Ridley Motorcycles. We are offering original equipment parts and technical support so that these bikes continue to make the dream of riding a motorcycle come true for years to come. The relationship between RGP and nearly all of Ridley’s vendors is good. We have made arrangements with most of the original vendors to continue to have parts made and to purchase parts.
I appreciate everyone ‘ s responses both positive and negative. 666- Please call me. (877) 311-0008. Maybe we can work something out” Jay Ridley, Ridley Genuine Parts.
From MN with LOVE- Unfortunately my father only serves as a consultant for us from time to time. I wish I had his help; however, he has moved on to other projects.
Capt. Phillips- We appreciate your help. Margins are tight for everyone these days. We continue to push Owners to you at Beast Custom Cycles!
Lola, Jill, & Carol- Thank you for your continued support.
Minnesota Rider- The context of the conversation I had with the dealer in New York had to do with how Twin City Custom Cycles was doing so well. Instead of misleading him, I explained what I knew about the situation. You are right, we should have given Twin City Custom Cycles more credit and pats on the back. Unfortunately, Twin City is no longer servicing the Ridley’s with parts from RGP.
Zyon- Yes, the situation was not good. I too am not happy with the way things progressed; however, I am trying to make the best of this very bad situation. I am trying to make sure those Owners with several years of payments left to be able to enjoy their motorcycles. As long as we continue to support the Owners, I hope they continue to support us.
Scot- In a bankruptcy everyone loses, especially the vendors. It was a very frustrating situation. I am very grateful that nearly every supplier you listed continues to do business with us.
Robert Curtis- Unfortunately that is the situation. The bank was secured partially by the company’s inventory of $3mm plus in parts and nearly $1mm in motorcycles. Vendors were owed around $200,000 total excluding Midfirst Bank.
Ronnie- I agree. We found a growing niche of automatic riders. Its not for everyone, but it is perfect for new riders. And yes, I don’t expect the vendors to give us any terms.
Wiz- Thank for you your feedback. Our 750cc design was not intended to be a hotrod. More of an unintimidating cruiser. As suggested in a later post, I am working on something a little bigger.
Bigalyts – Yes, this situation has become more common in the last few years. We never intended to lose our business. Between my father and my family it was a total financial loss. And your point about Honda, the market is obviously very limited which allowed a small startup like ours to gain momentum. It would have been easier to have been a big clone bike, but it wouldn’t have been nearly as rewarding as helping all of these people realize their dreams of riding.
Art Welch- I appreciate your help in marketing and selling our motorcycles in Minnesota. I have learned a lot from our dealings. Over the past five years we have not and probably will not see eye to eye. We both grew our businesses and now I hear you have an incredible Indian Motorcycle dealership. Congratulations. I disagree that I have done anything illegal. Your information on the NASCAR sponsorship is incorrect. The terms of the sponsorship were never disclosed at the request of the Team owner. I am not a NASCAR follower, but I can respect their audience and marketing power. It was for three of the final race in 2006. Brad Keselowski was the driver. Your information about the Midfirst auction was also incorrect. I did not bid the parts personally, but was in the audience during the entire auction. I was surprised you did not attend.
Marty- Corbin’s show did a lot for Ridley. I wish it was still running. At the bank’s auction there were roughly 200 people. Only two people bid against us. One I did not know and the other was a local gentlemen who later told me he was going sell it all at swap meets. I was very surprise no one else bid on it.
Rod- Thank you for your comments. I am glad to see you understand the situation.
Reality is that owners of Ridley motorcycles don’t know and don’t care. If they need bikes or parts they will buy them.
serious props! I respect the fact that you explained your previous situation and answered everyone’s concerns. It takes a man to stand up and do that! I might give that Ridley up the road a second thought for those days when I feel too lazy to shift 🙂
Hey 666,
You have to give the man credit. Good job Jay!
MC
I will call. I seriously doubt you will do anything but try and make yourself look good but we will see. I gave your father every opportunity to do something by small regular payments, returning the parts but he stated they were all used, trading for a bicycle or motorcycle even a used one etc, etc.
Please do not insult me further by trying to make me look like the bad guy here and you the poor victim. Because you guys mismanaged your funds it was not my problem but you made it so. And so everyone knows you owe me a hell of a lot mpore then $400!!!!! You need to multiply by about 25!!! Let’s see how much of a stand up guy you really are. I won’t hold my breathj!!!!!
666- Please call. I will do what I can.
I will call tomorrow
After reading this I have to applaud Mr Ridley for addressing each of these concerned, and some angry, bloggers. I will attest that in circumstances such as bankruptcy you do not always find this type of honesty and willingness to continue to provide service to the people that put stock in you, your customers! And I commend you, Jay, on doing so. I have never met you in person, but own one of your bikes and I have to say that I have been nothing short of ecstatic with it’s performance and the service that your company has provided to me with my investment. To 666, you notice I said Investment. I’m not sure exactly what has happened between you and Ridley Motorcycles, but from my viewing of previous blogs your communication skills lack serious tact and have crossed the line from anger to outright verbal assaults and even threats. As you know, nobody could have predicted the domino effect of how our economy has been affected over the last 4 years. People lost millions of personal retirement and long term investment dollars. When you do business and make investments you should always make calculated risks. Sometimes these risks don’t pan out as you had planned. From what it sounds like Mr Ridley is doing a whole lot more than most to make things right with his customers and vendors and I believe others should follow him by example. When I lost 10’s of thousands of dollars during the crash I did not rec’v a call or response from anyone. Consider yourself fortunate and move on.
Mr Ridley, best of luck in your future ventures as I am sure they wil be a success.
Good luck, your going to need it…..this industry is very unforgiving 🙁
Jay, So it’s still a possibility we can help handicapped people get back in the wind? I would be willing to work with you in developing a model of your motorcycle in a trike version along with my expierence in other aspects such as hand-controls, floorboard accomadations, and placement for wheelchair storage while riding, to name a few. Challenged individuals want to be able to take a ride without help from anyone, a fact that many [OCC] overlook. I gave them advice during that build but they did not take some of my suggestions in the special needs that handicapped riders require. I am known as “One of the nations leading experts in handicapped bikes and trikes.” I deal with helping people all over the world! If we can get a little more power and torque to sustain 70 mph all day long I think there is a very good possibility of a large, untapped market. With my association in dealing with others that have the same mindset we could do alot of good things. Call me at Freebird Custom Motorcycles LLC @ 605-359-2876. Thanks, Rick Strand, CEO, aka “Wiz”
I have to agree with some of the comments made by mmag. Some things are beyond a persons control. Sounds like the real problem here,as it is in most cases like this,lies with the bank. I believe the banks have brought most of what has happened in the past couple of years to everyone’s doorstep. I know that 5/3 bank did that with me and my business. They did not do what they said they would do. They lied,left and right about alot of important details. Pretty much told me what I wanted to hear and then did not do what they said they would do. Then stood back with their hand out while my business was going down the tubes because of their actions or inactions. My fault in that I am one of those guys who does business with a handshake and i take a man at his word. My fault for believing. I would think that is what has happened here when talking about Ridley. Just be thankful that you are not in a similar situation.
I know that there are alot of people like us who are in similar situations where the banks have caused them to default on their word because they believed that the banks would do what they said they would do. I give credit to Jay for stepping up,speaking out and trying to take care of those who have lost along with him and his father.JMHO Jim
EXCELLENT letter… you rarely see this , and it means a lot to me personally, as a current Ridley owner ( wife’s bike )
This should be good. I’ll just go ahead and hold my breath. Regardless of the letter, I’ll go ahead and contact them and let’s just see what integrity is really there.
Clay never followed up on money owed due to a “supposed” paperwork mix up, then on a trust basis, I helped him with some additional product, and got screwed on that. Less than $400? Hardly.
Oh, and since I got tired of reading while laughing hysterically, I missed 666’s comment. Appears you and I gave the exact same effort trying to resolve the issues, and met with the same line of BS, for about the same amount of dough. This should be interesting.
So, is 666 and Believe it when I see it the same guy?!?! I feel that it is and I also bet that he ( or one of them ) “owns” a CNC shop in California…. LOL
@ Jill Warner:
We are located in Ft. Myers, FL. Give us a call toll free @ 888-358-3503 for an appointment to service your Ridley.
@ Jay: Would you please have someone update the Dealer Locator page. We have Ridley customers who either can’t click to get to it or, when they do, a good deal of the listed service dealers have since gone under but have not been removed from the current listings. In my opinion (having been in this industry for 30+ yrs) buying parts online through your web store is only half the solution. Having reputable service facilities for your customers is the other half. Unlike a lot of H-D owners, Ridley riders tend not to service there own bikes and depend on a servicing shop to take care of their machines. I reiterate my comment from an earlier post, priority one, again in my humble opinion, should be an earnest effort in the development of a servicing dealer network that spans coast to coast. There are plenty of industry models out there to draw from, and not just in this market but, other parallel industries that have come up with innovative ways to accomplish this despite the current economic times. Putting your best foot forward by addressing concerns and looking for solutions to complaints is the right thing to do. You can’t please everyone of course but following through for the one’s you can is mandatory if you expect to survive and been seen as reputable company.
@ the bashers: It’s obvious to the readers of this blog that you have a bone or two to pick with Ridley however, it does not bode well for you to present yourselves in an anonymous way on this blog to vent your anger and frustration with slanderous comments and negative overtones instead of an honest effort to resolve your issues no matter how justified you feel that you have been wronged. Constructive criticism coupled with an effort to finding solutions to remedy your problems would get you a lot more respect from the readership here and viewed in a more positive way than stooping to name calling and character bashing. I’m not saying you don’t have legit reasons….I’m not you nor am I in your particular circumstance but, I have been your shoes before. I just thought sharing some constructive advice to you that I had to learn over the years in the university of hard knocks might be of some help. Like the old saying ” it’s only business…..don’t take it personally”.
Mmag- Thank you.
1550tc- Thank you.
Wiz- I appreciate your comments and thoughts. From the beginning, riders and shops modified the Ridley to accommodate riders with special needs. I was excited to learn of the additional product benefits when one Ridley owner sent a picture of her modified Ridley Auto-Glide Trike that allowed her to slide from her wheelchair to the motorcycle’s seat. What a cool feeling to know that we had a small part in making her dream of riding come true. Yes engine power does become an issue as more and more modifications are needed and more weight is added to the bike. I have a new transmission prototype that fits an HD Twin Cam motor that is extremely efficient and should provide plenty of power. Maybe in the future we will be able to produce a model with it. But as of now, I am focused on keeping the current owners on road and as the market returns we can dedicate more resources to that project. I will be glad to call you. Thank you again.
JimC- Thank you for your understanding of the situation.
Rick Lossner- Thank you!
Believe it- I look forward to your call and will do what I can to help.
Conrad- There are several vendors that lost more than a few hundred dollars that have every right to feel the way they do. The filing listed a little over 450 vendors. The average vendor was owned around $400. The top twenty vendors took the biggest hits in the $10k+ range. I understand that an amount like that can cause a financial ripple effect that was absolutely unintended. Again, my father and I started the company to make riding possible for the group the industry wasn’t interested in helping. We never thought this would happen.
Capt. Phillips- Great points on the service locations. What we need is an Angies List for motorcycle service centers and what products/brands they offer support. I’m on it.
No believ it and I are not the same person or company. We just have the same story/problem
Conrad,
You’re always entertaining and accusatory. I am aware of who you “think” I am, and I assure you that I am not the “Ken” that was all over your Dad a couple weeks ago.
In fact, your dad and I have spoken before, a few years ago now, and a had a good laugh at the “old owner’s” expense. I took the company over a few years back, and actually called Jeff to see if he wanted any of the old Desperado stuff laying around. I have personally never done business with him, nor manufactured any Desperado product.
Your old man told me quite the story of the old owners “experience” when he came to visit your dad in Texas. Jeff and I have only spoken on the phone a couple of times, and we have never physically met, so if you ask him, that may clarify who I am.
Capt. Phillips/Conrad
I’ve kept my name off here because I DO post on here under my regular name and opt to be professional enough not to air my dirty laundry…all you know is that I was not paid, and the “whole story” is not really something that needs to be aired out. However, if Jay is willing to make the amends and correct the situation that occured, I will be happy to divulge who I am…not that I am obligated to. It would make me very happy to see that Ridley turns out to be a “good guy” company that simply fell on hard times. This whole industry has seen a ton of this bad blood…I hear it constantly, so if one stands to correct and make good on a previous obligation, I salute their effort, and moreso, their integrity…stay tuned.
I don’t own a Ridley nor was I aware of any of the issues surrounding it. But I must say, hats off to Jay Ridley for coming online, of all places, to respond. That is unlike any CEO of a nationwide company that I have known. That’s top notch! As far as the insults, accusations, etc… like most things in life. Those that make the biggest fuss are many times the ones that have nothing in their hand of cards. Is that the case? <retorical question< I bet nobody will know one way or the other.
Good day guys, stay warm.
Jay,
I understand you 110% when it comes to this. People take things to heart and say many things when in all reality a business can fail and leave people in debt. But, the way people are so quick to attack under fake names is a deplorble and, consequently, an atrocious way of handling business. I wish you the best of luck with your future endeavors and hope this works out well for you and the business.
Believe It,
I know who you are now and are far from the “CNC” shop. But I still believe that if you come on here claiming they owe you money that you should use your name or post the companies name instead. You dont have to tell the tales and so on, but it would be nice, business like, to do so for the sake of rumors and hear say. Some get on here to try an besmirch others when in all reality you have no idea if it is true or false when it is posted under false names and email address’. To me, I find this to be a very ill way of running and operating a business. Yes, Ridley went out in debt, but the question is; Is Ridley Genuine Parts the same company as Ridley? NO, it is a parts supplying company which happens to be owned by the previous owners of Ridley. If you notice is Jays written statement above he says; …..”Eventually, the closing of Ridley Motorcycle was forced by our primary lender, Midfirst Bank. Despite having taken them a buyer for the company who was willing to guarantee the company’s loan, the Bank refused our solution and chose to auction the company’s assets.”….. So, in my opinion, this means all the ill will towards Jay and company should really be faced towards the bank who would not allow the new buyer to come in and make the business work and, quite possibly, pay all the vendors who were owed.
But again, this is my own opinion and everyone on here knows about my opinion and how it can be quite brash at times.
Conrad,
In this particular instance, the bank did not have anything to do with it. This was mid 08 when it all occured, and had everything to do with a conniving Clay and some empty promises.
Regardless, I do currently sell some replacement components to RGP currently simply in good faith towards their customers…certainly not due to ANY conversation I’ve had with Ridley since that time (none), but instead because they called and wanted to order the replacement parts.
I do not feel a customer should suffer for somebody else’s failures, so I opted to go ahead and sell the items to them, knowing full well who was still “behind the wheel”.
I will likely call Jay today or tomorrow and see what can be done. I opt not to list my real name, because I do not think public forum is the best place to resolve something like this, because there are just too many people that choose to jump in, and add their .02, who have no business offering their opinon in the first place.
Yes, I could go on the full blown tirade against Ridley and air it all out, but if you notice, I just expressed some doubt for the sincerity. I hope to be proven wrong…I truly do. We shall see.
Believe it,
I hope you can be proven wrong as well and all can be straight once again for you! FYI, I always have liked your companies products just the previous owner was, ill be nice, a douche!
Touche’…he certainly was. I’m sure your Dad will be happy to know that he’s living in Texas now, hiding from my lawyer and a couple more…LOL.
And thank you for the compliment on the product…I appreciate it.
Yeah Jay, Try more like over $150,000 that you guys never paid (that should bring your average of $400 or $450 way up even spread out over 450 vendors you didn’t pay.)… with left over inventory of which I stated I still have one left.
We cancelled our agreement in May with you, and you did not buy back the bikes. Instead you loli-gagged until you could claim bankruptcy.. For everyone’s elses information… And Jay will more than likely deny the claim and say someone else did, we sold more Ridley’s during our time as a dealer than any other dealer the Ridley’s had. We had more riders than any other state per capita, we also had more bikes coming in for service than any other dealer. Warranties were never fully paid, and Jay opened up another service center so that bikes could go there for service. He even took us off the dealer website so that ALL OF OUR CUSTOMERS grew confused as to where they could take their bikes for serfice. Many of our loyal customers, still come in for service at our shop.
Unfortunately, Since Jay decided he would not sell parts to us anymore, about 90 percent of our customer base would not go to the service center Jay set up to cut us out of the pie. So the customers had to buy direct from “Two Wheeled Ventures” because Jay set it up so that to his convenience, the customers would buy direct from him, and not from us. If you look on the website, when we moved, He never even put us up as a dealer for 2009 or 2010. Jay, our customers that grew with us, still like us.. Why did you cut us out? We were your top dealer. Was it because we sued you? Your own personal beef with me? Was it because you didn’t want to buy back the bikes when we cancelled our dealer agreement with you? Why did you vuy New Yorks, and not ours? What about Warranties? Why didn’t you pay in full far before your bankruptcy? Why did you have Route 66 buy the company for you? Why not just buy it directly yourself? Who REALLY owns” two wheel Ventures”.. What is the persons name? Their REAL name? Do you buy it out like you bought the Rdley name back from Route 66? When will you start honoring ALL warranties? Why don’t you sell us parts anymore? WE STILL HAVE CUSTOMERS THAT TRUST US AND WANT TO GO NO WHERE ELSE NO MATTER WHAT. Why did you take us off your dealer wesbite and cut us out of the pie for making back our money we lost with dealing with you. and heck, why not, What DID you pay for NASCAR? it was in the 6 figure range.. what are the details on that? Don’t you think a lot of that money could have gone to vendors?
As you can see you have a lot to explain. Detailed. But since Jay Ridley is a master of being extremely Vague.. I can see him answering SOME not all of my questions and skipping over a bunch.
Let me know Jay.. Please take the time to answer each and every question with detail.
Thanks for being so courteous in answering everyone else’s questions.. Can you answer all of mine?
Art Welch
Never ceases to amaze me ( entertain ?) how many people have no cajones and post anonymously…. Been like this for 16+++ years ….. not sure why it surprises anymore….
Finger pointing, accusations… and sometimes worse, threats and name calling ( to put it mildly) … ( though not the case here, today )..
I figure it’s usually some 5’2 120lb guy with issues….
Grow some balls and post your name(s) 🙂
~Rick
Jay, good luck you sound like a Class Act and it is unfortunate that we all got it in the Ass. Some of us just had to have a Bigger Hole, to take a little more!! Banks and Insurance Company’s, have all the Wealth right now! Until they find a way to Lend money again, well……we are all going to suffer. I wish you the best ! I personally never understood the price of the Riley’s. I guess 3/4 size, means 75% of the price of a Full sized Harley, Hmmmm…………. No I get It.
Arturo Welch- I will take time to answer your questions, but it will take me a few minutes.
Rick- Thank you, again!
Bigalyts@aol.com– I’m am trying to do what I can. Yes the traditional motorcycle manufacturer business model does not work in todays economy. We knew the price was high, but we were committed to quality more so than volume at that point.
666- Thank you for taking my call.
I think you got Class, Jay. I know People are Pissed and they are hating Life. They think Your Father and you started Ridley to Fuck them, out of their money. When the Sleepless nights come and you really can’t sleep because of the pressure that you are living with and who are you going to pay and who are you not going to pay? Those are the worst days. You end up paying the People that are going to keep your Shop open, just one more day ! Then here comes tommorrow and you have to try to finish a project or Deliver product for the Float. The biggest relief is the weekend when the Banks are closed, Whhhheewwww! I feel a little better when Saturday comes and the Bank that is looking for the Curtailment Payment is Closed, thanks God! How about Friday after lunch, you start feeling a little better cause most of the time the Bankers and Loan Officers don’t come back to the Bank after Lunch. Now, you got your Staff barely payed and god forbid they tell you some of their immediate problems, that sucks cause if you don’t help them out then maybe they won’t come to work on Monday and your Production collapses. This is just some of the FEELINGS that a Honest Businessman faces everyday, since 2006! Now, Where is OUR Check? Yes the money we need to keep our Family from falling on their faces? Thank God you weren’t Married to a JAP ! Jay this is when you wish that you could get paid testing Bullet Proof Helmuts!@#$%^&^%$#@#$%^ I wish you the Best and I hope you make a shit load of money so you can keep some of your Victums quiet. Most of them will never, root for you and wish you VD. I am not well enough, to pray for those People, maybe you are.” I Owe, I Owe so off to work I go, for a lot less than I am worth” !
Jay Ridley,
I called but the person that answered the phone said you were not in. I left my name and cell number. I also left my company name
Those who make comments about using a name like 666 instead of my own. I assume that you guys must be perfect in all aspects so do not care if others kind of know your business. This is mainly others in the industry who may or may not have been offered terms or credit. It is also easy when you did not get screwed out of thousands of dollars while just trying to help. Yes help!! Numereous conversations with clay ridley and telling him just pay what you can and I will ship your order. We need to just work together. Yeah right!!!!
Still waiting for answers Jay.. don’t forget to answer EACH AND EVERY QUESTION without being vague.. and don’t forget to mention how much was spent on advertising on Nascar with proof to back it up since it was your father Clay, that told me over 6 figures were spent.
I called as well and left a message with Valerie. I hope to get the return phone call tomorrow.
It’s a shame that Jay is having to pick up the pieces after Dad’s bad shenanigans, but, he got on here and offered, so let’s see what we come up with.
666, I offered the same options…same result.
Oh, and to those worried about posting names, again, I look at it to be more professional, between both Ridley and my company, so 1. It’s not really your business about how we resolve the issue, and 2. From a legal perspective, it’s best not to have this kind of issue aired…make sense?
Oh…and I’m 6’2″ and 280 lbs, and no issues
To all those commenting anonymously or with a fake email, I want to remind you the following:
Your online activity on the web, including in this Blog is never anonymous. You can never hide your real identity. Your ISP is your “fingerprint” and in case of litigation, a party can ask and get from a judge your ISP and identity to be disclosed by the website owner. It’s the law.
I would also recommend that these “anonymous” posters read again our Terms Of Service, especially the chapters regarding your responsibilities and liabilities.
http://www.cyrilhuzeblog.com/terms-of-service/.
Regarding the thread above, although you are entitled to use a username, comments with a fake email will be moderated and will not appear online.
Thank you for your attention.
Cyril Huze
Cyril,
I appreciate your comments and yes I am fully aware that the ip address is really our identity and can be subpeonoed if it comes to legal action. My intent is to comment on things and not piss one customer off because of something I say that he may take as our company favoring one client over another. It is also no ones business to know who owes what to whom except for the parties involved. You have the best blog on the internet and I truly mean that
And by the way I am 5’9.5″ 190 pounds so try another smart azz comment rick
Jay nice damage control and PR job…………you were taking more hits than a Cinco de Mayo Piñata, last week and on a few blogs on here, nice work defending yourself! Arguing on the net is like shadow boxing, you will eventually tired out, slip and fall!!
Go back to the drawing board or turn on that Google machine and look up a CT-70, find one and ride one OK………………. then call Fling Ling in China or look for him and his buddies in cincy and get them to make you a 750cc engine and tranny pkg like the the CT 70’s……., sure its a 2 speed, but it worked and no would get no hassle from HD! Call it a Ridley Super Duper duo-matic.
I figure it’s usually some 5’2 120lb guy with issues….
hey you forgot………. and a red headed step child hiding in his mom’s basement , typing on a dirty cheese ball stained keyboard from eating his cheese balls and watching porn 🙂
Arturo Welch rings a bell…. Titan Motorcycles and a lot of bs going on with this deal as well. Ummmm…. this one wasn’t very clean either when companies and assets got sold, dealers and customers got left behind.
I know Art from the twin cities dealership. Nice folks that owned it. Jay Ridley, You really did a dis-service to all of us riders that still take our bikes to him. Grow some nards and let him sell us parts!
We even rode with your dad on one of his rides and although we like our bike, a couple of us gals definately don’t like any decisions you’ve been making. Why would you eliminate him as a dealer for us to go to??????????? He’s always treated us with respect, and I think you eliminating him as a service center is disrespectful to us.
@666 // at 6’4 290, looks the same from where I stand? 🙂
@1550tc Sooooooo true 🙂
This spring , I’ll be getting the wife’s Ridley up to speed 100%… guess I’ll be finding out things first hand. I plan on taking it up to OK ( 3 hrs away ) and letting them take a close look at it to make sure it’s completely up to speed .. ( bought it used last spring )
Jay, The action you described for that gal is called a “Transfer”. You want to match the hieght of the trike seat to their wheelchair seat hieght so they can slide straight across, no problem. I’m currently in contact with a Ridley owner in Washington,DC who wants a Mystery Designs Independent Suspension system [the best for ride and handling] put on his bike. I can do it but will your clutch/driveline handle the increased wieght of the rear end? It’s for his wife who is not very large. I need your feedback before I can help him rather than build it and have the clutch slipping AFTER it is done. I do not want to do her a diservice. Call me at 605-359-2876 or E-mail me at info@freebirdcustommotorcycles.com as soon as possible. Thanks, Wiz
Has Cyril ever closed a blog reply down before to just stop the endless drama?
Arturo Welch- My responses to your questions are below.
Q. Why did you cut us (Twin City Custom Cycles) out?
A. Based on my past experience, I would rather not do business with your company.
Q. We were your top dealer.
A. Yes, there were several years where your dealership sold more units than any other.
Q. Was it because we sued you?
A. I am not aware of any suit you filed against Ridley Motorcycle Company.
Q. Your own personal beef with me?
A. No. As the President of 2 Wheel Ventures (RGP), I have asked my staff to not accept orders from your company.
Q. Was it because you didn’t want to buy back the bikes when we cancelled our dealer agreement with you?
A. I am not aware of any obligation Ridley had to repurchase your motorcycles.
Q. Why did you buy New Yorks, and not ours?
A. As with nearly all other manufacturers, Ridley Motorcycle Company had a repurchase agreement with GE Commercial Distribution Finance that required Ridley to repurchase the motorcycles from the finance company in the event the dealer was in default.
Q. What about Warranties?
A. 2 Wheel Ventures is not accepting any liabilities of Ridley Motorcycle Company.
Q. Why didn’t you pay in full far before your bankruptcy?
A. The company did not have the funds to pay.
Q. Why did you have Route 66 buy the company for you?
A. Derek Smyth asked if he could bid on behalf of 2 Wheel Ventures.
Q. Why not just buy it directly yourself?
A. Derek Smyth and Route 66 Ridley Motorcycles in Carthage, Missouri has the largest inventory of new and used Ridley Motorcycles in the country. He and I work closely to help current owners and prospective owners. He has more auction experience and wanted to make sure I didn’t bid incorrectly.
Q. Who REALLY owns” two wheel Ventures”
A. The ownership structure of 2 Wheel Ventures is made up of two outside members and myself. For the purpose you are pursuing, I am the managing partner. 2 Wheel Ventures purchased the Ridley trademark, all intellectual property and the remaining inventory of the company in a public auction early in 2009.
Q. What is the persons name?
A. Jay Ridley
Q. Their REAL name?
A. Jay Ridley
Q. Do you buy it out like you bought the Ridley name back from Route 66?
A. I did not. I am a sweat equity partner.
Q. When will you start honoring ALL warranties?
A. 2 Wheel Ventures does not intend to honor any liabilities of Ridley Motorcycle Company which includes the warranties.
Q. Why don’t you sell us parts anymore?
A. Based on my past experience, I would rather not do business with your company.
Q. WE STILL HAVE CUSTOMERS THAT TRUST US AND WANT TO GO NO WHERE ELSE NO MATTER WHAT.
A. Customers have the choice to have whomever they trust perform maintenance services on their motorcycles.
Q. Why did you take us off your dealer wesbite and cut us out of the pie for making back our money we lost with dealing with you.
A. Unlike the vendors who shipped parts to Ridley Motorcycle Company on credit and were not paid, your dealership still has the parts and motorcycles you purchased. Your situation is not analogous to the Ridley vendors. The list of service centers and former dealers is partial and does not include every dealer nor does it include locations where RGP does not supply parts.
Q. What DID you pay for NASCAR?
A. The terms of the sponsorship with Keith Coleman Racing have never been disclosed publicly at the request of both parties. I am not opposed to having that information released at this point. Contact Keith Coleman Racing. They have my permission to release the details.
Q. it was in the 6 figure range.. what are the details on that?
A. Again, the terms were held in confidence at the request of the Team. A sponsorship similar to the three races we participated in has a value far exceeding several hundred thousand dollars.
Q. Don’t you think a lot of that money could have gone to vendors?
A. The Ridley Motorcycle NASCAR sponsorship was in 2006 which was long before Ridley was unable to meet its obligations with its vendors.
MN Ridley Owner- I respect your opinion about Twin City Custom Cycles and Arturo Welch, but we choose not to do business with them. Parts are available through any other former Ridley Dealer and the Service Centers.
Well, I did get a phone call back from Jay this morning, so I can “believe it” since I’ve seen it. I appreciate the tenacity, and moreso the integrity. I concede to the Ridley issues having been due to the economy, and some poor management on behalf of Clay, but at the least, Jay has taken the time to make amends where possible, which in this particular instance is quite humbling I’m sure, considering it wasn’t necessarily all his doing.
Though I am clear that I will not see the money back that was lost by Ridley Motorcycles through my dealings with Clay, I do appreciate that Jay did his best to make amends with me, and keep an open door for future CASH purchases if parts are needed.
Unfortunately Jay has put himself in the position of defending himself for Clay and Ridley Motorcycle’s failures. It’s kind of like your drunk friend that can’t keep his mouth shut at the bar…he could probably use an ass kicking, but you’ll still stand by his side even if he made a mistake.
So Jay…good luck in your endeavor…you’ve got your work cut out for you. I hold no ill will towards YOU personally as you and I have never dealt with one another, so my sour grapes with Ridley Motorcycles and Clay are just that and will remain as such.
Now…if Clay were to post here…..
No warranty coverage? Even if it’s Jay Ridley reselling the same bike? “Q. When will you start honoring ALL warranties?
A. 2 Wheel Ventures does not intend to honor any liabilities of Ridley Motorcycle Company which includes the warranties.”
Something sounds Fishy here. If they are the same people pretty much making the same bike for a “comeback”, why wouldn’t they honor any warranties on any bikes that they built that they are currently selling parts for? Why would you do that?
Warranties- Ridley Genuine Parts is a parts manufacturing and distribution company. RGP does not manufacture motorcycles. We do offer a limited warranty on the parts we sell. Because the ownership of RGP is not the same as Ridley Motorcycle Company, we do not cover their warranty.
You guys are the same people.. just a name change so that you don’t have to pay to fix things.. thats a bunch of bull and a cop-out of your responsibilities
A name change to avoid responsibility of paying warranties. Wow. I think if you really wanted to be stand up about this, who cares if its a “Ridley Genuine Parts is a parts manufacturing and distribution company”. The Ridley’s left service centers paying everything. And then you have the gull to tell one of your best dealers that you don’t want to do business with them because why? Oh, thats right. You didn’t really answer that. Sketchy. Shady.
Jay, I think for your own good. You should put your personal feelings aside with your Minnesota dealer. Its ok if you want to fail to recognize that he propelled your company. But to force your customers to buy either from you directly, or from a service center that is NOT the place we bought our bike doesn’t make you seem like you’re willing to work with what your customers want. How old are you? 31? 32? Yeah, you have a long way to go before you know what business is about. It’s time to give back to those that helped you grow your fathers business to what it was at its peak. How quickly one forgets the hand that fed you when you need those people most. Even now.
MN Rider- in previous posts and in this one, I continue to recognize the successful efforts of Arturo Welch as a former dealer for Ridley Motorcycle. Without his help over the years the Ridley brand would not have been as well know in MN and surrounding states. I agree that it is unfortunate that we are unable to work together. But based on his comments in this post and in prior posts, I think it’s his opinion that we not do business either.
Jay, I’m actually starting to appreciate that you’re responding, especially on a blog. I’m not telling you how to run your business. I am simply saying, make the peace. All the times I’ve brought my bike to them to do service(after they became Indian), I ask, “Are you two talking yet?” They’re response is.. “Nope! they won’t sell us parts” Then they have to call some other service center and dealer to have them order the part for them, and it takes twice as long for even just a belt change if they run out of belts. Either that or I have to go hunting for one myself. This is an inconvenience for not just me, but for 6 other riders I have spoken to. Your Minnesota Dealer started a Ridley womans riders group a few years back and many of us have kept in touch since they turned over to Indian. They are always happy to do service work for us. We rode on one of their rides with your father and a guy named bob. We have seen this family’s business grow. I’m pretty sure they would buy parts especially since they actually care about their customers. But for you to say you will not do business with them, I don’t really see anywhere on this blog that says they won’t do business with YOU. AND THAT is an inconveience to the people that bought in to your product around the first time. Sell them parts Jay. Make it easier for us who want to travel 4 miles, or 8 miles, instead of 25 or 30 for service.
MN Ridley Owner- I appreciate your suggestion of selling parts to them. But based on my experience with him, I would rather not do business with him. I am sorry it is an inconvenience for you and the other owners. The last thing I want to do is make it difficult for you to get your Ridley serviced. I cannot in good conscience do business with him for reasons obvious in his responses on this blog. I would be happy to discuss other solutions to your concerns at your convenience by telephone. Call me anytime. (405) 525-5400.
Jay, we would LOVE to service our Ridley customers with parts from your store. After all.. what ever has happened between you and I should not in any way affect our customers. CORRECT?
That is the correct procedure. Customers first right? Noy Jay Ridley’s feelings first.
In response to your response here Jay.. I’ll correct you.
Arturo Welch- My responses to your questions are below.
Q. Why did you cut us (Twin City Custom Cycles) out?
A. Based on my past experience, I would rather not do business with your company.
RESPONSE: Our past experience is that of helping Ridley sell bikes than any other of your dealers
My personal experience with you not being able to keep your mouth shut about our finances is a different story. This should not affect a ridley customer.
Q. We were your top dealer.
A. Yes, there were several years where your dealership sold more units than any other.
RESPONSE: Its about time you acknowledge that. But did you ever show appreciation for it? Not once. Not even your dad.
Q. Was it because we sued you?
A. I am not aware of any suit you filed against Ridley Motorcycle Company.
RESPONSE: Do you (or anyone else?) want me to send you documentation to back that up? You klnow full well we were in the process and you kept putting off buying back the bikes when we cancelled our agreement with you because you guys a few months down the road were planning to file for bankruptcy. You lolligagged long enough and sure enough your bankruptcy saved you from having to buy back 8 units.
Q. Your own personal beef with me?
A. No. As the President of 2 Wheel Ventures (RGP), I have asked my staff to not accept orders from your company.
RESPONSE: And it is affecting our customers drive time, gas, wait, and everything else that you can possibly think of that can inconvenience someone who doesn’t want to drive the extra half hour to an hour for parts. Business can resume. Obviously your hard feelings are in the way. We always paid our bill Jay. YOU didn’t pay yours.
Q. Was it because you didn’t want to buy back the bikes when we cancelled our dealer agreement with you?
A. I am not aware of any obligation Ridley had to repurchase your motorcycles.
RESPONSE: Once again, do you need documentation faxed to you? i’d be happy to send it over if you’d like. I’ll also remind you that in the state of Minnesota, when a dealer canceles their agreement with a manufacturer, the manufactuer is OBLIGATED to buy back the motorcycles, that is of course unless you file for bankruptcy, but if you or anyone else wants documentation of this, I would be very happy to provide as a reminder.
Q. Why did you buy New Yorks, and not ours?
A. As with nearly all other manufacturers, Ridley Motorcycle Company had a repurchase agreement with GE Commercial Distribution Finance that required Ridley to repurchase the motorcycles from the finance company in the event the dealer was in default.
RESPONSE: OR IF A DEALER CANCELS THEIR AGREEMENT, which we did.. and you did not comply with Minnesota state law, OR GE’s return policy. Did you forget about this too? Need documentation for this again? Would be happy to provide.
Q. What about Warranties?
A. 2 Wheel Ventures is not accepting any liabilities of Ridley Motorcycle Company.
RESPONSE: of course not. That means you’d even have to accept warranty claims from our bikes.. you want to get paid, but you don’t want to pay. there is no one on this blog that is stupid Jay. Everyone knows you and your dad are still at the helm no matter what you say. For you to think that you could fool customers when Clay and Jay were at the helm of Ridley, now helming Two wheel ventures to avoid responsibility? and now Clay is keeping quiet and letting his prep school son man the business while he’s in the backround trying to engineer a new 1400-1500 cc automatic Ridley, that YOU claimed would out perform a Hayabusa on some race track. Do you really ever think you’d achieve any level of respect your dad gained before screwing all his vendors?
Q. Why didn’t you pay in full far before your bankruptcy?
A. The company did not have the funds to pay.
RESPONSE: According to Minnesota Motorcycle dealerships laws you sure did. You and Daddy broke those laws and got away with it because you filed bankruptcy. It was the only way.
Q. Why did you have Route 66 buy the company for you?
A. Derek Smyth asked if he could bid on behalf of 2 Wheel Ventures.
RESPONSE: He asked? You mean… you guys? didn’t ask? He just did it out of the kindness of his heart? Hmmm wonder where he got the money? Could it have been from Clay and Jay Ridley?
What a way to screw the bank. They were very full aware of it AFTER the fact. Bet that bank won’t be giving ya loans any time soon.
Q. Why not just buy it directly yourself?
A. Derek Smyth and Route 66 Ridley Motorcycles in Carthage, Missouri has the largest inventory of new and used Ridley Motorcycles in the country. He and I work closely to help current owners and prospective owners. He has more auction experience and wanted to make sure I didn’t bid incorrectly.
RESPONSE: Actually we had a larger inventory than he did at the beginning of last year.. You know.. all the ones you didn’t buy back, and they were all new. Whatever your excuse is Jay, sources have called to tell me it was all a scheme to to buy the name back at the fraction of the cost.
You must really think everyone doesn’t put two and two together.
Q. Who REALLY owns” two wheel Ventures”
A. The ownership structure of 2 Wheel Ventures is made up of two outside members and myself. For the purpose you are pursuing, I am the managing partner. 2 Wheel Ventures purchased the Ridley trademark, all intellectual property and the remaining inventory of the company in a public auction early in 2009.
RESPONSE: VAGUE. You didn’t really answer the question. Who are ALL the owners? BESIDES YOU? What are all their names besides Jay Ridley. Who are the silent partners? (does anyone know how to investigate this? Starting to make me wonder why it’s such a big secret) Cyril? Can you investigate this? there a real reason why Jay would NOT answer this question as directly as possible? Can anyone (out there) answer this?
Q. What is the persons name?
A. Jay Ridley
RESPONSE: AGAIN, VAGUE.. what are you hiding?
Q. Their REAL name?
A. Jay Ridley
RESPONSE: and the other two? What are their names? what are you hiding Jay? why can’t you answer this? I think everyone reading the blog would like to know now that you’re holding back the information. Like someone on here said .. Sketchy, Shady… ..and vague.. so Secretive.
Q. Do you buy it out like you bought the Ridley name back from Route 66?
A. I did not. I am a sweat equity partner.
RESPONSE: well no YOU didn’t.. you were on Daddy’s payroll.. your daddy bought it. (or had someone buy it for him)
Q. When will you start honoring ALL warranties?
A. 2 Wheel Ventures does not intend to honor any liabilities of Ridley Motorcycle Company which includes the warranties.
RESPONSE: and you expect to make customers happy with this? You’re already pissing some off by not letting them fully get their bikes serviced at our dealership. Anything for the customer right Jay? anything for the customer.
Q. Why don’t you sell us parts anymore?
A. Based on my past experience, I would rather not do business with your company.
RESPONSE: trust me.. i’d rather not do business with you, but not at the expense of the customer.. Service your customers Jay. Service them by allowing them to get their bikes serviced where they want.. not where YOU want.
Q. WE STILL HAVE CUSTOMERS THAT TRUST US AND WANT TO GO NO WHERE ELSE NO MATTER WHAT.
A. Customers have the choice to have whomever they trust perform maintenance services on their motorcycles.
RESPONSE: except that you won’t allow them to FULLY get serviced at our dealership. Customer service to the NINES! right Jay? Maybe i’m wrong here.. maybe its all about Jay, not our customers.
Q. Why did you take us off your dealer wesbite and cut us out of the pie for making back our money we lost with dealing with you.
A. Unlike the vendors who shipped parts to Ridley Motorcycle Company on credit and were not paid, your dealership still has the parts and motorcycles you purchased. Your situation is not analogous to the Ridley vendors. The list of service centers and former dealers is partial and does not include every dealer nor does it include locations where RGP does not supply parts.
RESPONSE: oh.. so now WE ARE a dealership for Ridley? I’m asking why you took our dealership off your website as a service center when you knew we had an extremley significan’t amount of Ridley owners in the twin cities? Why would you do that?
Q. What DID you pay for NASCAR?
A. The terms of the sponsorship with Keith Coleman Racing have never been disclosed publicly at the request of both parties. I am not opposed to having that information released at this point. Contact Keith Coleman Racing. They have my permission to release the details.
REPONSE: “Ridley Motorcycles has found a new marketing arena in its quest to convert more of the nonmotorcycling public into bike riders: NASCAR.
The Oklahoma City manufacturer signed a six-figure agreement that will extend well into 2007 to be the lead sponsor of a race car in the Busch series, one of three divisions in the increasingly popular NASCAR series.
Besides drawing 200,000 fans, if not more, to tracks across the nation, NASCAR also offers Ridley another potentially lucrative draw: the female consumer. Ridley’s automatic motorcycles are largely targeted toward women, an increasing demographic in the industry. Women also are playing a bigger role in the NASCAR … ”
Here’s the link http://www.highbeam.com/doc/1G1-157593539.html
Q. it was in the 6 figure range.. what are the details on that?
A. Again, the terms were held in confidence at the request of the Team. A sponsorship similar to the three races we participated in has a value far exceeding several hundred thousand dollars.
RESPONSE: this is where your vendors money went. instead of their pocket.
Q. Don’t you think a lot of that money could have gone to vendors?
A. The Ridley Motorcycle NASCAR sponsorship was in 2006 which was long before Ridley was unable to meet its obligations with its vendors.
RESPONSE: WRONG.. check the article up above. get your facts straight. We have the actual news article on paper still here at the shop. Bad time line memory?
MN Ridley Owner- I respect your opinion about Twin City Custom Cycles and Arturo Welch, but we choose not to do business with them. Parts are available through any other former Ridley Dealer and the Service Centers.
RESPONSE: Dear MN RIDLEY OWNER, We are sorry that we cannot fully service your bike the way we would want to, and the way you deserve. Rest assured, we will still service your motorcycle regardless of someone’s hard feelings. We thank you for always trusting us, and continued support. The Ridley bike is a GREAT bike. ABSOLUTELY it is. Unfortunately, I cannot say the same about the people who run the newly named company. Although they are all the same people who ran it before, sometimes certain actions must take place in order for them to avoid responsibility and more law suits that they deny existed. We will however Continue to support all Ridley riders and service to your bikes… even if we have to go to another service center to get the parts for you and make your wait time longer.
Ouch, and wow! Go get’em Mr. Welch. You raised some pretty interesting and valid points. I’m starting to wonder too why he’s not answering your questions. Mr. Ridley, would you be so kind to answer Mr. Welch’s Questions? These are, very valid questions. Why so much secrecy? Who are the partners? I sure wouldn’t buy a bike from you guys unless I knew who I was dealing with. Especially when you’ve claimed bankruptcy once already.
Active corp. incorporated in 2007 in Florida?
http://www.corporationwiki.com/Oklahoma/Oklahoma-City/ridley-motorcycle-company-inc-4579519.aspx
They WERE afterall selling bikes outside of the U.S.
Is that side of Ridley still open?
It says “foreign”
State of Record: FL
State Reference ID: F07000002902
Registered Agent: Capital Connection, Inc.
File Date: 6/3/2007
Active: True
Filing Type: Foreign for Profit
Two wheeled ventures is under Jay’s wifes name. Or am I wrong? Jay, do you deny this?
Arturo Welch… We get it… you got burned by Ridley and they don’t want to do business with you. No matter if they purchased back their company, moved money around, paid Nascar a bunch of money to get their logo on a car or did not honor warranties after they went belly up, or don’t want to deal with you with returns/buybacks and personal reasons, it’s really not our problem on this blog.
The customers will always suffer. They already do.
If you are running your Indian dealership as well as some of your colleagues in the midwest who don’t respect their contracts, I am not surprised Jay or Clay or anybody at Ridley don’t want to deal with you. You actually sound like someone that would sign up to become an Indian Motorcycle dealer, moving from brand to brand. If I recall correctly, Ridley put you to court in August 2008. And your name also appears on some shady stuff with Titan about 3-4 years ago.
So, I am sure Jay and Clay did a few things wrong by the book and didn’t respect some of their agreements with dealers and suppliers. That happens when your business goes down and you file for bankruptcy. Ridley is dead. Nobody will ever put this brand back on the market. So let it go and concentrate on selling your 2011 Black Chiefs that will be sitting in your showroom for the next 18-months.
I’ve been to the MN dealership. Folks there seemed nice and helpful. Looking for a Ridley for my wife. But after knowing now, that I’d be buying a bike with no warranty and that the original owners of the Ridley company won’t back their bikes, when they are supplying parts for them, definately sends me a red flag in my decision to buy. If the Ridley’s owned Ridley, and now own Two Wheel ventures, and they’re supplying parts for the bike that the bike would need if there was a warranty problem, and they want customers to pay for those parts, what does that tell you about the company and the people behind them? Thumbs down. Not gonna buy now, used or new. Scary.
I actually don’t blame the guy. The Art fellow. I’ve sued people myself that screwed my small business and the people that sue people rarely ever see any money these days. I think this blog is great! If I had an opportunity to speak out against a company that burned me the way this one did to a dealer that helped The Ridley’s get on track, you’re dang right I’d be writing the same thing! Who wants to get burned a second time? Its very obvious this Jay persona is evading questions on purpose, and it makes me feel uneasy to ever consider buying a bike from this company. Thank you Cyril for letting us post. This helps future buyers beware of scammers and con artists. It really does help us consider who we do business with. And Art, although companies may not always be perfect, Ridleys, Your Dealership, My business, I still appreciate you posting your experience with them. Good luck.
Rider2,
that wasn’t very nice. If you’ve ever been burned by a company, which it sounds like you haven’t, you’d know what it was like to fill our shoes. Expressing concern to let buyers beware, well, would you want to know too?
Arturo- we disagree on many things. Your comments and continued smearing only reinforce my decision to not do business with you.
Slick- the purpose of my answers on this blog have been to open up a dialog between the Ridley Owners, Vendors, Dealers, and Service Centers. Most of the questions have been honest and valid to whichi have responded in kind.
Anonymous Dude- the ownership listed in the link was partial for RMC. The company had 16 shareholders. I believe because it lists Ridley Motorcycle Company, Inc. that it is the same company. Yes my wife and I have a stake in 2 Wheel Ventures.
Rider2- Arturo has a great staff who will sell the Indians well. I wish Jim and them nothing but the best.
WI- thank you for sharing your thoughts. Yes, RGP is not accepting Ridley’s warranties. We are working with owners who have legitimate claims. Thank you for your interest in the Ridley Motorcycle.
Oops, meant to say “another” bike from this company. Not having a warranty to cover my current one is definately not in my favor.
Jay, If I were in your shoes, and I had a guy on my tail like you do, I would definately try to make amends even if you didn’t want to do business with him. All it takes is one person to not help your company grow especially if he’s spouting stuff out that you probably don’t want out there. Whatever his experience was with you, you need to make it right and hold your head up high and become the good guy in the end no matter what. Can you Imagine if he wrote an apology letter or told everyone that both of you turned things around and are now working together?
That would wow everyone! It might even wow all the people here that think your “shady”.
Rider2- sorry auto correct got me. I meant to write, I wish him (Arturo Welch) and his staff nothing but the best.
Jay and Clay… I am not defending you on this blog. Far from it. You screwed up some of our customers so I am not surprised you went down. Current Ridley Owner I get your point: we have been burned more than once in this industry, so the Ridley story is no different than the American Iron Horse story or an Excelsior Henderson story or a INDIAN MC story. The Ridley team had a great product. They screwed up their vendors, dealers and customers due to poor marketing planning, poor management and mis-placement of their investments. Period. Just like AIH or others that are not here anymore.
Jay decided to put money in Nascar. So what… Are we asking Indian why they spent $500,000 on a show truck to support 20 dealers in this country? Same stuff.
When brands go down, there are harsh decisions to make. Usually vendors don’t get paid first, then the bank and whatever else is asking for money. Forget about buy-backs on bikes, warranties or P&A. How many dealers do you know these days that accept AIH warranties or can get you a replacement air cleaner with their logo on it?
There is obviously a lot going on between Ridley and Welch. Just like I am sure there are some issues between other brands who disappeared and their dealers. It’s not only in the motorcycle industry (Pontiac, Saturn, etc…).
And if Ridley doesn’t want to do business with one of his old dealers, that’s their choice. It’s taking you hostage and it’s regrettable but that’s how it works. I am sure Twin City Indian has some loyal customers who bought a Ridley from them and need help with maintenance. So if Arturo Welch wants to continue servicing it, maybe he should go to China, find the parts supplier, and make a deal and open a service center on his own. Doesn’t look like Jay or Clay are going to send him an “authorized Service Center” sign and a bunch of free t-shirts anytime soon.
For those commenter’s who call themselves businessmen. Let’s get real here.
1. You can’t declare Bankruptcy if you have enough money to pay everyone you owe. You are an idiot if you expect whoever takes over after receivership to pay the debt of the previous entity. You shouldn’t be in business if you don’t know this. Bullying is not going to do anything but make you look like a fool to other real business people and probably to Indian. It makes you look like an amateur.
2. Look up corporation. Businessmen incorporate for the very reason of protecting personal wealth. If these guys are incorporated and don’t know why then they are not businessmen. They did it to protect themselves personally from the customer and supplier if by circumstance they were unable to pay their debt. If they were as honourable as they would like you to believe, they would run their business unincorporated and all financial risks would be on them their families and there personal. If they incorporated they have taken the first step to screw their customers and suppliers should their business idea not work out or the economy turns on them. Is Twin City incorporated, I would bet on it. Of course this is no corporation’s intention. But if you think it’s impossible and you would never not honour your debts even if your wife and children have to work it off, then why incorporate.
3. Look up legal entity. A corporation is its own legal entity. As stated above the reason they are created is for the businessman or owner to create a separate entity from themselves. Guess why they might do that. One entity is not responsible for the debt of any of the other separate entity. Bullying will not make that change. Talk to your own lawyer or insurance company about taking on other entities responsibilities. Whether you feel guilty or responsible or not they will advise you not to. Even if you own the other separate entity.
4. Look up slander and unsubstantiated statements.
5. Manufacturers make all the rules for dealerships, not the other way around. Just try and get a car or motorcycle dealership and see the control the manufacture has.
6. Dealers make money of this situation. They are lying if they say they don’t. Twin Cities doesn’t sell bikes not to make money. If they sold the most bikes they also made the most money. You are a fool if you think they are doing it for solely for customers benefit. It is for their benefit that they make the customer happy.
7. Businessmen want to keep their customers happy not because they care about them but because the care about themselves and how much they can make. Nothing wrong with that. Don’t try to sound so righteous.
8. Another big money maker for dealers is servicing. I service my own Ridley and the parts from RGP and the oil for the 2000 mile service is less than $20. and you can add a fuel filter every 4000 miles for $5 or 10. What do they charge you for the half hour it takes to do? You can change out the whole transmission in half an hour on these bikes.
Some of the most successful business people have failed and gone bankrupt a few times and probably pissed of a few people along the way. These are the risks of business and being in business and one can get burned at anytime. The reason we go into business and take these risks is for the higher potential return then working for a salary.
You took a risk and it paid off for a while. You weren’t doing it as a volunteer service for your customers or Ridley. I am sure Ridley would have loved to pay their debts and still be in business. Bankruptcies are forced by creditors.
Be a businessman and quit the bullying you should know it’s getting you nowhere and some of it may be libellous. Your cheering section doesn’t make you look any better either.
Regardless of what anyone looks like as a business person, the fact remains that its the same people running it this time around, and are evading responsibility. Twin Cities may have a cheering section, and you may not like it, but what he is providing is a warning to everyone that “thought” about doing business with this company, or the same people of the last company. The answers Mr. Ridley provided were rightfully vague. I would probably answer the same way, due to legallity reasons. Why provide info when “I really don’t have to”? I don’t think Twin Cities is in the wrong to “bully” or speak up at all. People always want to know who they are dealing with. And of course, Bad word of mouth always travels faster than good word of mouth. The Ridley’s have a long way to go before they ever come out of just selling parts. I think for now, Twin Cities will be a thorn in their side. The question is, how do you take care of it? How will the Ridley’s make this person, maybe not “happy”, but content?
Rod- thank you.
Equal- I don’t expect that I have the ability to satisfy Arturo. You can’t reason with the unreasonable.
Rod has summarized perfectly what a motorcycle dealership is all about. Money, selling you a $40,000 bike you can’t afford on a 12% interest loan for 124 months, charging you $200 for an oil change and making sure you come back for more with a BBQ /open house every other weekend. What you get out of this is a free t-shirt and a special place in the heart of your banker.
There is nothing Arturo Welch (or any other dealers) does, not to make money. Ridley was one of the avenues. Businessmen/dealership owners want to keep their customers happy not because they care about them but because the care about themselves and how much they can make. There is no volunteer work here. A Ridley is not a complicated bike to maintain. As Rod said, you can do it yourself and pretty much every shop on the planet can adjust your brakes, change your tires or do an oil change.
Nobody has to provide any information about their business and Jay and Clay can exercise this right. They don’t have to answer questions. The company is no longer here. Again, try to get answers from American Iron Horse or the old owners of Indian Motorcycles. No matter what’s going on behind closed door won’t change either Welch’s (or his loyal customers) perception of Ridley.
We should all go back to our daily lives and find another bone to chew on.
Sure changed my perception. I will now never buy a Ridley bike, or deal with a company run by the same people as the last one. I’ll go look for the 850 Honda automatic that came out 2 years ago. At least I know Honda will never go under like this company did and not honor a warranty. Almost bought one. Now I never will.
It was on my agenda in late 2008 to buy a ridley, but decided to wait another year. Then the falling out happened. Sadly, I don’t think I’d buy one either not anymore. Not because of Twin City’s comments, but because Jay has been very thin about his answers. I think the questions on this blog are legitimate. If someone is trying to start up a company again, you better be dang sure you answer some pretty upfront questions. How else are you going to gain trust? By telling people it won’t happen again? Yeah, I don’t think so.
The Honda’s a 638cc not a 850. They look like a european touring bike (You know Like a BMW) They cost as much as a Ridley. I think they stopped making them. They were only available at Honda Powersport dealers which are only 3 of the 100’s of hundreds of Honda dealers around here. Honda Powersport Dealers cannot sell nothing but Honda. They are a different bike altogether. They are nice if thats what you want.
I have a friend with one and trying to get tech help is only at the dealer level and if you call 5 of them with a question they will all give you a different answer. There is no factory tech help for you or your mechanic if you need it. You have to almost take the bike apart just to get at the battery.
You can believe who you want, but the truth is you will get great service and tech advice from Ridley. The mechanic at the bike shop I go to was sure impressed. I guarantee you that if you buy a Ridley you will receive the support from these guys. Or by the parts and take the bike to Twin City Indian. Its your choice. They are still a great bike. Don’t let the personality conflicts here turn you off. Companies stumble and come back, Indian did too. And alot of people feel ripped off who bought a AMF Harley as they stumbled too.
I’m glad Ridley is trying again too and I hope any of the other failed or axed bike manufactures come back as they all deserve another chance. Even the ones that didn’t fail have been given repreives or second chances by someone, like Harley Davidson, Victory and Indian. And look at what the banks, AIG, GM and Chrysler cost everyone in America. Are you gonna stop using the bank, buying insurance too and what do you drive.