I contacted a local dealer regarding a potential purchase of a new BMW bike. They are a multi brand dealer and have a decent assortment of new BMW's but not the specific model I was interested in, that being an F700GS. They advised that they could locate one for me if I were a serious buyer, (don't know? I've owned over 20 bikes in my 50 yr riding career, including 9 BMW's) I told them I was serious, but I wasn't going to order a bike without seeing it and going for a test ride. The sales guy is a very nice, and knowledgeable professional, who then advised me that they do not allow any pre-purchase test rides on BMW bikes.
I understand that I am at the doorstep of geezerdom, but how the hell do they sell any bikes? I also understand that it is probably a dealer restriction and maybe/possibly BMW exercises no policy regarding test rides, (although BMW is inclined to exercise policy on everything else).
Is this a new marketing plan by BMW? Is it a rarity among other BMW dealers? Or is this the new norm?
Want to test ride a Harley? Just point to the one you want (I don't want) and they will roll it out the door. Triumph? It's even on their website asking if you want a test ride.
So do I need to wait for bike week and they make a reservation?
I understand that I am at the doorstep of geezerdom, but how the hell do they sell any bikes? I also understand that it is probably a dealer restriction and maybe/possibly BMW exercises no policy regarding test rides, (although BMW is inclined to exercise policy on everything else).
Is this a new marketing plan by BMW? Is it a rarity among other BMW dealers? Or is this the new norm?
Want to test ride a Harley? Just point to the one you want (I don't want) and they will roll it out the door. Triumph? It's even on their website asking if you want a test ride.
So do I need to wait for bike week and they make a reservation?