Mr. Shannon more than knows his craft, he cares about his customers. We had it with taking our 2005…read moreYamaha Virago 250 bobber to low-price and half-stepping mechanics. One mechanic didn't let customers know about an upfront $80 deposit over the phone or on its site, and didn't tighten the oil drain screw when finished with repairs [had to do it personally]. Another changed the rear brake [it still squeals] after picking one of the priciest front tires it had in stock, claiming it was the only one that fit. And one never explained what he did to get her running again. Days later, the bike would not start. That happened a few times.
We gave up, and decided to go with someone who built bikes from the ground up, Cartel Baggers Fort Lauderdale. We saw them a few times downtown, and they had good vibes. Remember how we mentioned about how Mr. Shannon cares? If you need to get home or back to work, and your bike is all you have, he will UBER you on his dime.
Mr. Shannon kept us in the loop the whole process. The biggest update was that the bike needed a new swing arm. We knew it was bent. But not one of the three previous mechanics brought the bent swing arm to our attention, even the one who changed the rear brake pads. That one was supposed to "recommend" repairs. The same as they were to "recommend" a front tire for the bike. Basically, we were riding a death trap [the rear wheel was at a serious slant, and the bike always looked as if it would fall over when on the rear stand], and didn't realize it! Mr. Shannon did!!! He was vehement about not riding the bike again unless it got fixed to the point where he stated it should be towed home without the repair done. That is how a true bike mechanic should react!
Turned out the bike was a salvage bike with a rebuilt title.
After he removed the swing arm, he showed how it originally had duct tape [a la The Red Green Show] as a sealer!!! The man saved our life!
Let it be stated, you get what you pay for with Cartel Baggers. They charge appropriately for their professionalism and thoroughness. If you want cheap work done or a hack, go elsewhere. Saving dollars can result in serious injury or loss of life. Why risk that? We will stay with Cartel Baggers Fort Lauderdale as our mechanic going forward.