KGS Bikes sponsored the Sweet and Twisted Triathlon in Austin yesterday and we had a tent set up so we could chat with folks after the event while they were enjoying the food and drinks and conviviality. While I talk a lot about the way people defend their bikes and their bike shops, I overheard a discussion that was going on a few feet away between one of my clients and another competitor. The discussion centered around the athlete’s complaint that her hands were going numb in 5 miles when she got on the bike and that she had significant saddle and back pain.
I heart my bike, through hand numbness and saddle sores, through back pain and sore knees. Photo, FCL on Flickr
My client mentioned that she may not have the right size bike or that it may not fit and the woman instantly defended her bike. When questioned further by my client, it was apparent that she somehow was the one who either didn’t deserve a bike this nice or was deficient in some way. She would not admit that any part of her discomfort could be the fault of the bike or of the bike shop that she patronized.
I bet the big bike companies would love to have this woman’s testimonial. No matter what discomfort or problem with the bike, she unconditionally loved her bike. She will probably never darken my door and that is too bad, because I think the riders are much more important than the bike. It makes perfect sense under this model to describe X bike as winning the Tour de France, Y bike as winning the Hawaii Ironman. It’s not the rider, but the bike, or is it? Could the bike win without a rider? Just check the latest wind tunnel data!
Food for thought. Thanks for reading and I hope you find time to post a comment.
{ 8 comments… read them below or add one }
Chances are it was her first better-than-average bike and doesn’t want to admit she made a mistake in her decision. Perhaps when it’s time to replace the bike she’ll look you up for your advise.
Stay tuned…
Hi Brian,
Thanks so much for the comment. Yes, it is long term relationships that make the difference.
Best,
Kevin
Isn’t marketing great?
Hi Jim,
Gotta love it. Thanks so much for the comment.
I can guarantee that if she was having hand and back pain, it is the bike not being properly fitted for her that’s the problem.
Distance Rider.
Hi Sandy,
I totally agree. I am just flabbergasted at how many people defend the bike! Thanks so much for your reply.
That sounds crazy ,but then so many people buy beds based on just price and even from catalogues ! no wonder the worlds stressed with all that lack of sleep
I totally agree. Thanks so much for the great comment.