Ordering motorcycle parts online? – Be precise ‘cause the devil’s in the details!

November 18, 1:18 PMBoomer Biker ExaminerBruce Hosking

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The brake lever in the foreground fits my bike.

The moral of this story is - pay attention, be precise, and never be in a hurry. Because when it comes to ordering motorcycle parts  online, conducting your business in any other manner will only cost your more time and money.

Due to an unfortunate series of events, I recently found myself in the market for a replacement brake lever (and mirror) for my DualSport motorcycle.

Now, wouldn’t you think that a motorcycle brake lever - is a motorcycle break lever – right!

WRONG!

Just take a look at these two Suzuki DRZ OEM brake levers that I’m holding in my hand. The lever in the background fits the DRZ 400 E, the larger lever, foreground, fits the DRZ 400S model, which is the motorcycle I ride.

Unfortunately, when it comes to the lowly brake lever – I learned the hard way - by ordering the wrong part online - that there definitely are differences.

So, I’ve decided to share what I learned from my mistakes in an effort to prevent anyone else from suffering the pitfalls of my online parts ordering fiasco.

• First off, if the acquisition of replacement parts is timesensitive – if making repairs to your bike are urgent – then you’re best bet is probably to purchase replacement parts directly from your nearest power sports dealer. Yea, I know that you’ll be paying retail, but the total costs of the parts will likely end up similar or slightly less than if you order online and spring for expedited shipping directly to your door.

However, if time to make the repairs on your motorcycle is on your side, you can definitely cash in on savings by ordering OEM or aftermarket replacement parts online.

Also, you'll want to make sure you do your homework before ordering parts from an online supplier that you’ve never used.

• Ask around, your friends or their friends will be happy torecommend a reputable online motorcycle supply house that they’ve dealt with in the past.
• Or you can log on and do a Google search. Start by typing a phrase like - best online motorcycle parts supplier - that should get you off and running providing plenty of businesses from which you can choose.

And once you’ve narrowed those parts supplier choices to a short list, look for an online supplier that provides:

• the best selection of OEM and aftermarket parts andaccessories
• schematic diagrams for all major manufacturers to help you find the part you need!
• secure online shopping
• periodic or special discounts
• · free or reduced shipping

And finally, make sure you double check all your information on the online order form before clicking BUY!

Because if you order the wrong part the first time – like I did – then you’re only left with a limited number of choices. You can pay more shipping charges and send the part back to the supplier - and he’ll probably charge you a restocking fee. Or you can write off the whole debacle as a learning experience like me.

BTW – if anybody out there happens to be in the market for a brand new OEM brake lever for a DRZ 400 E - let me know cause I just happen to have one! <GRIN>