Debate: Should we tell customers when their bike isn't worth fixing?

Last week a guy brought in a 1998 Trek mountain bike. Needed new shifters, brake cables, tires, and a cassette. I quoted him $350. He got mad and said he could buy a new bike for that. I told him he should. My coworker thinks we should always fix whatever comes in the door. Keeps the lights on and builds loyalty. But isn't it wrong to charge more than the bike is worth? What do you guys do when a repair costs more than the bike's value?

2 comments

2 Comments

gavine415d ago

Had a guy bring in a mid-range hybrid last year that needed a full drivetrain and new wheels. Shop rate meant it was way over what the bike was worth so I told him flat out he was better off putting that cash toward something newer. He came back a week later and bought a bike from us plus he brings his whole family in for service now.

grantthomas5d ago

Honesty pays off every time.