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Overheard a customer at the shop today say 'I just want a bike, not a subscription to fix it' and it got me thinking about how we used to build things to last.
Honestly, I spent 3 hours yesterday trying to source a simple 8mm bearing for a 2022 model that the manufacturer just doesn't sell separately anymore, and I'm curious if other shops are seeing this shift towards disposable parts too.
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jamie_webb672mo ago
Designing things to last is a luxury most people can't afford now.
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cole_flores442mo ago
My buddy's new tractor has software that locks out third party blades, so he's stuck paying the dealer triple.
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the_piper1mo ago
Did you try looking for a generic version of the part online? I had a similar issue with my fridge water filter, the brand wanted $50 for it... turns out there's a knockoff that works just fine for like $12. Worth checking if that tractor has any workaround forums, @jamie_webb67 might know some tricks. Sometimes you gotta dig through reddit or YouTube to find the hack, but it's usually there. My buddy's lawnmower had the same lockout nonsense and he found a bypass in like ten minutes.
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drewr152mo ago
That customer nailed it. It's not just bikes, it's everything now. My coffee maker from last year has a special water filter you can only buy from them, and it costs half as much as a new machine. Feels like companies design stuff to break or lock you into buying their parts forever.
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