Build Your Own Damn Mousetrap: A Primer on Starting and Running Your Own...

Specials and Deals

We often get calls about "specials" and "deals" to our shop. One of the issues which limits what we can and cannot say is the dealer agreements that we have with our suppliers. For our bike suppliers, we often have to be uniform on retail price points. These points are what are current, particularly for all of the new models in a given line. For example, the currently advertised retail price of a Seacrest 3 speed cruiser is $464.99, and though there may be in-store specials, those cannot be communicated except in the store.
Many people may look for a deal, but not all of those know how to request one in a way that is reasonable to our shop. So the best way to check is to actually come in!

The Mouse is trapped

The shop owner (Dave) has finally published his long-awaited book {BUILD YOUR OWN DAMN MOUSETRAP} about owning a small business (and his journey to get there).

In the new Trade Paperback format-it's available online (www.dorrance.com) or at the shop 317 Main Street, Seal Beach, CA.

If you purchase your copy in the shop, Dave will sign it for you. The ad copy describes the tome as an eclectic how-to get into your own business journal that is filled with quips, anecdotes and most importantly-good tips on how to start and run a small business today.

When do you put on sales?

We have been asked a lot lately when our bikes go on sale - the answer is nearly all the time. Because we are a small shop with very close dealer agreements, we often offer in store specials. We don't do a lot of advertising in print media either, so the best way to know is to stop by.

One of the other questions we have been getting a great deal on the phone is a "price quote" - it is our shop policy to quote the MSRP or available price for current model years. Of course if you provide a region specific print ad with a date and clear offer, we will match it!

Remember it is a great time to cycle!

What is new for the holidays?

This year is all about accessories and making your bike fully functional. As we stay focused on here at Main Street Cyclery, "the best bike is the one you will ride!" Look for stylish bells, basket bags, liners and cool drink holders. Check out some of our key vendors:

• http://dvnproducts.com/ The basket buddy bags, bling bells and cool drink holders
• http://www.couturecruiser.com/ An upscale look for a tote bag and basket liner
• http://www.topeak.com/products/ Cool accessories, racks, lights and pumps
• http://planetbike.com/page/ Check out these lights and computers

We want to move you to the best possible bike and accessory pairings so that you can achieve maximum use out of your bike!

From Allan!

Seth,

I wanted to take this opportunity to thank you and Dave and Julio. You run a great bicycle shop and your customer service goes above and beyond what customers have come to expect.In this economy more than ever businesses need to realize just how important their relationship with the community should be.

With my family this started back in June when my son Jake and his friends rode to Seal Beach. This being his first ride without either of his parents along it was with some hesitation. I had asked him to make sure and call when he arrived,well he called me at work to inform me that he had a flat tire on my bike and was leaving it at a friends house

and taking the bus home. I suggested that he walk the bike over to your shop and ask if the tube could be replaced while he waited.You went out of your way to change the tube for him and trusted him enough to call me at work for a credit card number.

The next time my sons and I were in Seal Beach we came by your store to thank you personally. At the time you suggested that I put my business card in the bowl for the Labor Day drawing of a new beach cruiser. I reluctantly did so explaing that after many years of doing so and never won anything even a "free lunch". Well what do you know?

On Labor Day I ran into your top technician, Julio just down the street he was as excited for me as I was. He informed me that I had won the bike and could stop by and pick it up anytime. My sons and I have been into your shop several times since and are always treated with respect and consideration by all of you. I am now in the market for another beach cruiser for my younger son and would only consider purchasing it from Main Street Cyclery. You and your fine staff run your business as it should be.We will continue to recommend your shop to all of our friends,neighbors and coworkers. Continued success.

Best Regards,

Allan Frank

Update on winners

So Allan and his two boys came by to pick up their winning bike this past weekend! Here is an updated photo!