I just put the B12 in for it's major 24k service. Didn't bother taking it to the so called Suzuki dealer - he's about as useful as tits on a bull.
No, I took it to Frontline Motorcycles (Wagga Wagga). They're actually the Moto Guzzi and Benelli dealer.
Now they did have the bike for an extended period of time, they didn't have all the required parts in stock. This isn't surprising as they're NOT the Suzuki Dealer, yet. Also, it wasn't totally their fault.
About a week ago I went out to the garage and fired up the B12 to get ready to go to work. Went through the usual routine, warm up, open gate, ride to top of drive way, turn off engine, close gate, close garage, go inside have another cup of coffee, about 10 minutes later I went back out to go to work and it bloody well wouldn't fire.
So, being the mechanical moron that I am, rang John at Frontline, he came down and trailered the bike back to his shop. I told him that while he had the bike he may as well do the service.
Anyway, I picked the bike up yesterday. Total bill, including the pick up, was $610.00. I was amazed, most guys I know reckon they've paid as much as $800 to $1000 for the same service. Before anyone asks, yes they did everything the good book says the should, plus they washed it for me as well.
Just to make sure that they didn't 'stiff' me, I had the Treasurer check it out, for those who don't know, my Mrs used to be in the bike trade, and she gave it the all clear.
After looking at the bill I found out why they're so well priced - LABOUR RATE $55.00/HR - christ the other shops in town charge $70.00hr just to look at the bloody bike.
I spoke with John - the owner and Paul - the mechanic and they are only weeks away from picking up the Suzuki Dealership.
I can highly recommend Frontline Motorcycles Hammond Ave Wagga Wagga - they give you old fashioned service and will offer cheap alternatives to genuine parts - up front you don't have to say "Christ that's expensive is there anything cheaper". They will give you a couple of options of whats available. One extra bonus is that John also owns the local Bike Wreckers - so if you want parts real cheap that's not a problem either.