Dealership VS. Private Mechanic

[Togger]

Is it better/ cheaper to take a bike to a dealership or a private mechanic in general?

[Iahawk]

well, if you're lucky enough to live in an area that actually has private mechanics...(unlike here) you may find better pricing and work from the independent, just like in auto repair.

[Stig / Major Tom]

Who is the best mechanic?
Could be the kid at the dealership - or the aging couple with their own scooter shop.
Depends a lot on what you need serviced.
Word of mouth, if you can get it.

Stig

[randyo]

around here, it's dealer or diy, unless you own a Harley, there are several independent Harley shops
I take that back, keep forgetting NAPA moved, and an independent "motorsports" shop moved in, haven't stopped in yet, but appears to have more ATV, SxS and fewer dirt bikes from what I see driving by

I use my dealer, but I have to say I have a unique relationship, having done work for the owner who has become a close friend.
I use an independent shop for my truck, with the exception of getting a couple keys and a fob programmed to the tune of $300 at the dealer, although they did have some good eye candy at the cashiers desk and comfortable chairs to sit in across the way while I waited

[Stig / Major Tom]

There's a mom and pop dealership 44 mile away in the midst of Columbus that sells SYM, Buddies, etc that I'd love to use on a regular basis  - rather than my local multibrsnd motorcycle dealer (sold me my Forza and Like200i) but I'd have to rent a trailer to get to them.
A genuine  Scooter Shop! Amazing.
Stig

[randyo]

that is another benefit I have with my dealership, just a phone call and they will pick my bike/utv up