Rhythm Thief
Veteran
I'm inclined to agree with Tim on this one, BFTB. I can't believe you're really struggling to source an average quality stem, not with two or three bike shops and the whole of the interweb at your disposal.
You really need to get a bit of perspective over this - you bought from a company that offers a product at a competitive price because it outsources all its production to the far east and is merely the 'front' trading on the illusion of a decent British brand that earned its reputation many years ago. They're quite upfront about this and it allows them to offer perceived value at point of sale. You chose them rather than the more personalised service of other brands but now seem upset that the 'value' they offered means they must economise on the after sales service they can afford to provide. Well, you pays your money - you takes your choice. You chose cheap.
Legally, your only beef is with the retailer if you think the stem was unfit for service. They are the only people with any obligation to help you. However I should think they will believe that it was your hamfistedness that has stripped the threads as that is the only way I have seen a stem become unusable. In that case no one is under any obligation to help - you just need to buy a new stem. If you can't find one that meets your aesthetic sensibilities, then tough. But try SJS Cycles as they usually have masses of out of date cheap tat.
it outsources all its production to the far east and is merely the 'front' trading on the illusion of a decent British brand that earned its reputation many years ago
Product recall
Dawes 2008 Discovery 601 and Giro 500
A possible defect has been detected in the stem fitted on the above bicycles. The casting around the stem mounting bolts may show signs of fatigue over time and crack, causing the stem to become loose from the steering column. As a precautionary measure, we are recalling the above bikes to allow new stems to be fitted. It is only these models affected in this recall as they share a common stem.
No other Dawes bikes are affected.
A new stem will be available week commencing 12th May 2008. You must stop using the bike immediately.
We sincerely apologise for any inconvenience caused and thank you for your co-operation.
The Dawes bicycle brand offers you the unique blend of British heritage and outstanding performance. Dawes has a limitless passion for quality and service. The 2008 range delivers cycling excellence from a bedrock of corporate strength which guarantees after sales support, reliable warranty and customer focussed brand values
My problem with that is that Dawes doesn't offer value. It wants to be something that it isn't. Fair enough if it's up-front about being cheap. But the Galaxy, for example, isn't any better value than anything else at that price point.
Maybe BFTB is sore because he bought one of their more expensive bikes.
I suppose Dawes have got themselves into a pickle by downgrading themselves but still retaining possibly their only worthy product.
I don't think it's overly harsh. I've had poor communication with them in the past. I've also spoken with several people in the business who say that Dawes are difficult to work with in terms of support. And like I said, my LBS has dropped them because they're not keeping up with other similar manufacturers. It's sad really.
I'm not saying the Galaxy is a bad bike. It was top of my list for next year. It's just nothing special for that price. And when spending that much money anyone with any sense will go for the brand he knows will support him. Which is why the Galaxy is not on my list any more.
Your last sentence says it all really.
Bigtallfatbloke said:Yes the stem broke because I tightened it too much and ripped the thread out, it happens. No I am not saying it isnt fit for purpose, yes I am willing to buy a new one and yes if you actually read this thread things will be clearer.
I am not complaining about the part. I am complaining about Dawes dealerships and dawes being unable to source me a new replacement stem of the type supplied on the new bike.