OzVMX Forum
Clubroom => General Discussion => Topic started by: walshy on July 25, 2011, 04:21:55 pm
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Anyone looking at buying parts from BACK IN THE DAY MX I would strongly recommend you don't. He will take your money and piss about for weeks then send you half of your order. Then he doesn't respond to emails and phone calls. I tried to get Paypal to sort this out and their official line is MOTOR VEHICLE PARTS ARE CUSTOM MADE AND THEREFORE DO NOT HAVE BUYER PROTECTION!!.So, as far as Paypal is concerned All bike parts are custom made.
YOU HAVE BEEN WARNED!!
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Screw paypal I had a problem with parts that never arrived from the US by the time I realized something was wrong to much time had gone by and paypal told me to sort it out with the seller (paypal speak for piss off). So I rang Visa who said they don't cover purchases thru paypal (Visa speak for piss off) but talking to my wife's Aunty who just happens to be well placed in a major bank there is a way around it if you have you're credit card linked to paypal account ring them up and tell them it was an unortherised transaction. Visa will back charge paypal straight away but be warned paypal will be pissed and open case between you and the seller ( funny how they can do it after 45 days) also they will suspend your account and make you set it up again (prove your idenity). It's a big hassle but if reasonable sums of money are involved it's worth it and you will get a fast reply when his account is backcharged. In my case it was a genuine postage stuffup combined with the guy not checking his email but it's nice to know you can get your money back if it all goes bad.
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I have gotten my money back from paypal but it was long jump thou hoops procedure. Shame that this company operates in VMX and dosen't appear to be honest.
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Eventually the chooks come home to roost for those who do not do the right thing.
Does anyone know if it possible to do a transaction reversal through your bank if you have used a credit card linked to your Paypal account? :-\
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but you are only allowed a certain number of transactions through Paypal with a credit card before they demand you align a bank account don't they?
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I have been refunded by Paypal twice. Once from the USA for an expansion chamber that I did not receive..US $330 and another for clothing from Korea $150...Both times there was little or no correspondance from the seller . I filed a claim for a refund after 3 weeks and was immediatly reimbursed, so don,t mess around... just file a claim for a refund and READ the claim form carefully so that you go about it the correct way...good luck .lyle.
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Claims go thou easy if the seller dose nothing if the seller contests the refund it gets ugly.
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Thanks for the replies everyone. I might give Visa a go but frankly I just had a gutfull. It isn't a large sum of money involved, it is more the principle. This wa#!ker at back in the day seems to be supported in his less than legal behaviour by Paypal.I find it hard to believe that when someone admits to short changing an order he still has full backing from the people who say they will protect the paying customer!!
Anyway, time to build a bridge!
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Looking through Marks swap meet last night and found a warning about back in the day a late for myself and others but if we can stop other people being burnt and maybe put him out of business thats got to be a good thing. Curly
http://ozvmx.com/community/index.php?topic=19129.msg190215#msg190215
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Hi Guys
Walshie is a mate of mine and is as honest as the day is long. This "Twit" from the USA is an absolute "forkwit". Nobody should put up with the crap this imbecile has dished out to one of the "good" guys that is just getting into VMX . Walshie's motivation for getting involved was because of the great people you meet just being involved with old bikes and has been stung early and hard by this idiot.
The "Shonk's" website for your reference is www.backinthedaymx.com (http://www.backinthedaymx.com) and email is [email protected] according to his website.
I have just sent him the following email message and would encourage anybody that has feels the same way I do to send him the same or similar.
"Dear Don
You have recently transacted with several members of a very tight Knit community of VMX in Australia who are less than happy with your service. Or lack of it.
Please be very aware unlike the USA, the whole of Australia's VMX community is very small and do talk regularly on forums in regard to shonky and undesirable operators of which you are branded as one.
I do not expect you to realise that "word" does get around in regard to operators like yourself in other countries, but it does.
I have asked other members to send this email message to you, just so you know that we are a strong and united group. Many will not because they will not like to buy into someone else's "shit fight" but rest assured your name is out there and hopefully people will be warned and informed before dealing with you again.
Life is full of the consequences for someone's actions, lets hope you get your consequences sooner rather than later.
Regards
"insert Name Here"
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Email just sent, interesting to see what the response will be.....
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I just got an head of ol mate a Mr scard, sold as in good conditon blah blah. never mentioned the fact that when it finally turns up ( usual over priced postage) that both spark plug threads are rooted and eaten away. YOu cant tell me you cant see that even if you dont know bikes. GRRRRR
they all do it. be it here or over there, new to the sport or old.
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Email sent.P
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Well Done paco, the more the merrier....
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Love your work Lawesy
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Love your work Lawesy
He's your mate too Paul. Give that asshole a shot over the bow as well... ;D
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Just posted a small one on Marks. :)
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Well Done Mike
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mmmmm, the old Derren Slawesy Hinch eh......can you get rid of our PM by any chance?
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All Good Tatey, my liver is fine... ;D
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Love your work Lawesy
He's your mate too Paul. Give that asshole a shot over the bow as well... ;D
Oh, I've set him an email ;) don't worry about that.
I'm more at odds with your description of Walshy. You have him up there with Mother Theresa, when you and I both know he's a complete and utter bastard.
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Thanks Paul. (feel the love!) Well, I just got of the phone to Don at back in the day!! He apologized for all the stuffing around and assures me that this time he has sent the parts.I couldn't help but feel sorry for him! To everyone who has been short changed, I think you should email him or phone him now while he appears to be listening.
To everyone who has supported this, Well done. I'll let you all know when, If I get my parts.
Cheers!
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Together we will stand....Divided we shall fall.....Up the revolution.P
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I'm more at odds with your description of Walshy. You have him up there with Mother Theresa, when you and I both know he's a complete and utter bastard.
Yeah, your right Paul.... sorry about that guys Walshie is a prick... ;D
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Another win for the little man........all thanks to our Derren "Slawesy" Hinch.......dont you go celebrating now will you.
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Another win for the little man........all thanks to our Derren "Slawesy" Hinch.......dont you go celebrating now will you.
Not at all John, a phone call does not mean his parts will turn up, or anybody else's that has had drama's with this goose. I believe he is quite good at appearing genuine.. "watch this space"
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Thanks Paul. (feel the love!) Well, I just got of the phone to Don at back in the day!! He apologized for all the stuffing around and assures me that this time he has sent the parts.I couldn't help but feel sorry for him! To everyone who has been short changed, I think you should email him or phone him now while he appears to be listening.
To everyone who has supported this, Well done. I'll let you all know when, If I get my parts.
Cheers!
I`m gonna call you " BACKFLIP WALSHY "
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Re: Ted Brack
Don Mendenhall
Very good. Also Ted, I want top be upfront with you. I have had some difficulties staying on top of by game. I have fallen behind a bit on full-filling a couple of orders over seas in your parts of the woods. I have stayed in contact with these guys & am doing the best I can to see that everyone gets what they paid for, & then some...
I am just one guy & I am legally blind & have a short term memory issue - Shit you not mate. When I broke my neck racing in the Pro class in December of 2000 - I later succumbed to stem cell issues & lost the sight in my left eye 100% - The a year or two later I was checked out at the "Neurologist & they came to the conclusion that all of the concussions I suffered while racing Motocross has caused memory damage.
fork me... Anyways, I just want to let you know personally, all though I am a bit slow, I put out the best work. I now have Shocks / Engines & Forks over in Australia, not to mention a shit load of my Billet Mods I designed & machined myself. & I know my stuff rocks! When you get your lid, that will speak volumes on my behalf.
That's it dude. Just want to be honest & upfront with you.
Thanks Ted.
Also in the future - All Aussies placing order for Parts & or Service - Can pay me "If they want" when the item lands on thier doorstep. All I want is for the individual to pay for teh shipping, by contacting my personal shipping service & requesting a "Signature" when the items show up. That way I know they got the goods - & at that point... you can pay or not pay. If the individual elect not to pay - Fine... No worries. However I wont do business with them anymore - But no harsh feeelings. I believe this will be an awesome way of approaching good business practice for over seas racers.
Regards
Don Mendenhall
[email protected]
http://www.backinthedaymx.com
PH: 925.337.6898
So OK he is a bit slow but when you get his stuff i think you will be happy.
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Well Ted, Maybey you guys will get a good result after all... certainly seems that we have made him take notice, whilst he still remembers what he has promised.
Hopefully every one will end up happy and get what they should have with out all this BS.
Still like I have said, lets "watch this space" and you guys keep us all informed how you go with your orders.
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he,s a snake in the grass ,watch out
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I trust him...hence the reason i didn`t join this witch hunt ;)
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If people are not capable of running a business in a professional, honest and efficient manner then they should not be in business. These days there should be no excuse for poor customer service. This is increasingly becoming a promblem with many companies in USA and not just vintage specialsits either. One off mistakes are ok but when it gets to the point where threads like this have to be started out of desperation from customers to get some action, that is not exceptable. Why do these business's continue to operate like that is beyond comprehension, when many others offer outstanding service and are willing to bend over backwards everytime to make the customer happy so they pass on the good word to others. Word of mouth is the best form of advertising.
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Exactly how many customers are not satisfied.......one, maybe two...Are you one of them
Like he says " I am just one guy with a few health issues " maybe he thought his business would not grow to this level.
How many people would you employ dealing solely in `79 to 81 YZ yamahas in what i believe to be the most tight fisted sport ever
Just because someone calls out Witch is no reason to collect wood for the fire. Leave the poor bastard alone and he will deliver
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I trust him...hence the reason i didn`t join this witch hunt
Good on you Ted, Looking forward to you letting us all know when you have experienced your positive experience, I truly hope he does do the right thing by you....
FYI: I do not trust him. I do not have any parts on order from him so I could care less...
I do however care about my mates that have been screwed over by this guy, whatever the reason..
Just a thought, maybey you could be his agent in Australia and the guys could deal with you instead of him seeing that he is battling many personal problems and he has your confidence.
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Hey Ted, You reckon I'm doing a back flip!!
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Exactly how many customers are not satisfied.......one, maybe two...Are you one of them
Like he says " I am just one guy with a few health issues " maybe he thought his business would not grow to this level.
How many people would you employ dealing solely in `79 to 81 YZ yamahas in what i believe to be the most tight fisted sport ever
Just because someone calls out Witch is no reason to collect wood for the fire. Leave the poor bastard alone and he will deliver
Ted whilst I agree with most of what you say here , there is no doubt that this guy gives some customers the mushroom treatment, I not that hard to write an email. You can use the same one and copy and paste. Sorry Im sick and parts will be late etc.
I never meet a really pissed off customer that was communicated with ASAP.
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Just a positive note, in the last four months I have made multiple purchases from AMS racing and DC plastics and have had excellent service from both with DC plastics sending me a inlet manifold with free freight as they didnt have it in stock at the time they sent the rest of my order. Hope all ends well and its not just more BS. Its hard enough getting the ok from the missus to spend money for our hobbies without getting scammed.
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Maybe some very interesting news heading our way.... Stay tuned
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Just to let everyone know that I have received my gear from Don today. All looks good.
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How long did that take? Maybe I'll get mine in the same year that I ordered it.
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Steve thats good to hear I might get lucky and receive mine. Here's hoping.
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Don's a bit slow but he gets there in end .... but I might be more patient than most and have lower expectations.
The one I got severely ripped by was C&J Racing Frames, it sticks in my throat that my frame was never delivered and yet frames are still being delivered to the UK in batches.
Seems like you have to order them in bulk to get any love..... so deal with C&J at your own peril/
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Good to hear Steve, now bolt them on and roost Paul...he deserves it!
If you think that we are getting the raw pineapple from US guys, try and get any response from our Aussie suppliers. Our supposed biggest ( now ) advertised aftermarket supplier
( name withheld ) doesn`t have the decency to answer email requests RE : purchasing products , even after spending shitloads with him on another occasion. You`ve lost me fella
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Ted,
It seems you may be talking about Les at VMX Unlimited. I have recently had a problem getting through to Les whilst exchanging info about the organisation of MR VMX and it seems that he has some email problems. He has been experiencing instances where Outlook informs him that he has received an email but it doesn't make his inbox. He has asked his IT bloke to look into it and he reckons there is nothing wrong???!! Clearly there is, and he was going to contact the IT bloke again in an effort to sort it.
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I have dealt with Les and have found him to be more than helpfull.
I ordered a part which he had listed as in stock ,when it wasn't , and he RANG me to tell me of the problem.
Got my part a week later.
Brilliant.
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Ted,
It seems you may be talking about Les at VMX Unlimited. I have recently had a problem getting through to Les whilst exchanging info about the organisation of MR VMX and it seems that he has some email problems. He has been experiencing instances where Outlook informs him that he has received an email but it doesn't make his inbox. He has asked his IT bloke to look into it and he reckons there is nothing wrong???!! Clearly there is, and he was going to contact the IT bloke again in an effort to sort it.
Outlook express can be a pain in the butt. I had to disable mine. It sucked all the emails out of my account and I couldn't access emails from other computers. My IT bloke said piss it off.
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you maybe correct in your assumptions but Ted didn't name anybody?
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Not sure if Ted was talking about VMX Unlimited or not but I just want to add my support for Les and his business.
I just received my first order today after placing the order on Saturday. 1 business day for delivery is pretty good I reckon. In addition to email updates on the progress of my order.
VMX Unlimited not only provides a good service to our niche industry but also is supporting NSW VMX in sponsoring the upcoming Mr VMX meeting at Barleigh Ranch.
Cheers
Shaun
Cheers
Shaun
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Surely Ted wasn't talking about Les? I doubt you'd find a more abliging business operator than Les and VMX Unlimited. He's always very busy but he's always returned my calls. I've been up there and have seen first hand just how hard Les works to make sure his customers are looked after.
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here here and say so all of us, i gota get him an expresso machine for xmas he's allways had crap coffee, dont tell him he thinks its good??? ;D :o ::)
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I have got to agree. Les doesn't know me from a bar of soap. I emailed and rang him last year to ask if he knew of anyone with a 495 that may be for sale. He emailed me a few days later apologising for being busy and tossed a few names and contact details my way. That's what is so good with all the ridgy didge people that enjoy motorcycles; they will always see you right. ;)
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You shouldn’t judge the attitude of any business based on e-mail replies.
I know I have had a few over the years that when I have hit the reply button which should go to the where the e-mail came from, but they bounce back a few days later. I usually try 3 times and then give up.
Also a lot of ISP’s use spam filters so every now and then I go to the onsite spam box in the g-mail sites and I occasionally find a real e-mail in there, so it’s possible that your e-mail didn’t get through.
Also had the odd message on the answering machine that has poor reception / static and the return number is indecipherable.
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Also a lot of ISP’s use spam filters so every now and then I go to the onsite spam box in the g-mail sites and I occasionally find a real e-mail in there, so it’s possible that your e-mail didn’t get through.
Usually I like to invest the price of a call at the start of doing business with someone regularly... the service level goes up.
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Just like to add my two bobs worth.Spoke to Les last week and as others will testify he has had computer problems.I have found Les to be highly ethical prompt and helpful,also price competitive.I'm sure he would not like to see himself on a buyer beware thread. ???
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Hide details Don MendenhallTo [email protected]
From: Don Mendenhall ([email protected])
Sent: Friday, 21 October 2011 8:07:33 AM
To: [email protected]
Ted,
I will be shipping your helmet today. I missed your last event.......
It took us forever to locate the SCOTT Goggle Model ( 83X ) Old School ( Red Main Face Frame / White & Red Lettering on Band - Say's SCOTT on both sides. This goggle has the pre drilled holes ( 3 per side ) To accept the Old School Mask.
As explained, we had to paint the Mask & Visor, as certain colors are simply to hard & rare. The paint was applied with sufficient "Hardener's / Chemicals" in order to withstand typical MOTO Abuse & Roost.
I have set you up with several Ols School MX Decals from the Day. Also set you up with 80 Series SCOTT Tear Off's & Lens as we
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I trust him...hence the reason i didn`t join this witch hunt
Good on you Ted, Looking forward to you letting us all know when you have experienced your positive experience, I truly hope he does do the right thing by you....
FYI: I do not trust him. I do not have any parts on order from him so I could care less...
I do however care about my mates that have been screwed over by this guy, whatever the reason..
Just a thought, maybey you could be his agent in Australia and the guys could deal with you instead of him seeing that he is battling many personal problems and he has your confidence.
Just letting you know
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Recieved today .I ordered the spring last summer, got a email asking how it worked out to which I repied that I hadn't recieved it yet. Was told that it was sent some months ago ,now told that it was sent today.The hubs are only a few months waiting........
Your Spring / Hubs & other Parts will be at your doorstep within 3 - 5 days, as per Post Office visit yesterday while mailing other items.
It takes a while.
I know it blows. I put something extra in thier as I do for most.
It will be their before next Wednesday.
You've been very patient, & I appreciate that more than my email can express.
Don Mendenhall
[email protected]
http://www.backinthedaymx.com
PH: 925.337.6898
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I trust him...hence the reason i didn`t join this witch hunt
Good on you Ted, Looking forward to you letting us all know when you have experienced your positive experience, I truly hope he does do the right thing by you....
FYI: I do not trust him. I do not have any parts on order from him so I could care less...
I do however care about my mates that have been screwed over by this guy, whatever the reason..
Just a thought, maybey you could be his agent in Australia and the guys could deal with you instead of him seeing that he is battling many personal problems and he has your confidence.
Just letting you know
Make sure you get a helmet Ted, not a painted icecream container.
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damn how did i miss this thread :(
I too am waiting on parts.. well one part, but its not a cheap one.
He has been good to me in the past from a small order, and has kept me up to date with this one. hopefully it arrives.
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Good luck with that Steveo. I had to rebuild my " Rebuilt" motor. found old seals in there amongst other things. Fairdinkum, not worth a pinch of s*&t!!!!!
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Looks like ive been ripped off.
And stupid stupid me miscounted the 45 day paypal dispute timing and missed it by 2 days.
Hva emailed paypal with sob story but have no doubt i will be told bad luck thanks for your money.
Dont ever ever give any money Don Mendanhall or backinthedaymx.com
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Steve sorry to hear that... Maybey his agent in Australia that is convincing every one that this turd is a good bloke can help you out... Over to you Ted!
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Recieved today .I ordered the spring last summer, got a email asking how it worked out to which I repied that I hadn't recieved it yet. Was told that it was sent some months ago ,now told that it was sent today.The hubs are only a few months waiting........
Your Spring / Hubs & other Parts will be at your doorstep within 3 - 5 days, as per Post Office visit yesterday while mailing other items.
Wednesday has come and gone , nothing yet.
It takes a while.
I know it blows. I put something extra in thier as I do for most.
It will be their before next Wednesday.
You've been very patient, & I appreciate that more than my email can express.
Don Mendenhall
[email protected]
http://www.backinthedaymx.com
PH: 925.337.6898
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Paypal will not do anything about retrieving your money or product. I tried to get them to act within the 45 day period and was told several times that motorcycle parts are not covered by paypal as they are CUSTOMIZED!!
Bottom line is they support these kinds of people in their less than legal behavior.Like I said at the start, BUYER BEWARE!!!
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Paypal will not do anything about retrieving your money or product. I tried to get them to act within the 45 day period and was told several times that motorcycle parts are not covered by paypal as they are CUSTOMIZED!!
Bottom line is they support these kinds of people in their less than legal behavior.Like I said at the start, BUYER BEWARE!!!
What a load of BS!
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Paypal will not do anything about retrieving your money or product. I tried to get them to act within the 45 day period and was told several times that motorcycle parts are not covered by paypal as they are CUSTOMIZED!!
Bottom line is they support these kinds of people in their less than legal behavior.Like I said at the start, BUYER BEWARE!!!
What a load of BS!
How exactly is that BS? It's what actually happened
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I sent him an email letting him know that my fathers birthday has now gone by and the parts i paid for 9 weeks ago are no longer needed as they were supposed to be a gift for the day.
That must have struck a nerve with him as i got quite an email back. Lots of swearing and big sob story, about this and that very similar to one previously posted in this thread.
He asked me to delete the email once i had read it? LOL.
He did say that if the swingarm isint here by friday he will refund my money. I dont believe him but getting my money back would be really nice!
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Paypal will not do anything about retrieving your money or product. I tried to get them to act within the 45 day period and was told several times that motorcycle parts are not covered by paypal as they are CUSTOMIZED!!
Bottom line is they support these kinds of people in their less than legal behavior.Like I said at the start, BUYER BEWARE!!!
What a load of BS!
How exactly is that BS? It's what actually happened
I've had paypal refund money for a bike part that never arrived. It was a few years ago for a road bike fuel tank. Might have changed their policies since then?
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I've had Paypal refund me for bike parts within the last year or two.
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I,ve had paypal tell me that they will refund , except for the first $28.
The purchase price was $32.
Gave it a miss :o
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probally depends on which indian call centre picks up the phone ?
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Dead right freakshow!!. I tried 4 times to get someone to do something and 4 times I was told that parts are not covered. If you manage to get a refund more power to you!
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Got my swingarm!!
Its not quite as described but still a good unit also packaged incredibly well.
So as the topic says, deal with the guy at your own risk. He just craps on telling you what you want to hear, and has terrible customer service / postage times.
Customer service is the basis of any business, this is something he obviously does not understand.
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looks like ted finally got his helmet, so if nothing else this might give those who have given this guy money some hope that they'll eventually get something in return
(http://i582.photobucket.com/albums/ss270/ted84photos/Untitled-1.jpg)
(http://i582.photobucket.com/albums/ss270/ted84photos/Untitled-3.jpg)
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Nice looking lid homy
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Nice looking lid homy
Yeah, I suppose so but I'd rather my $25 Corona lid. I'm not stupid enough to think I can race with it but it's hip and happenin' for cruising the pits on the trials bike ;D
(http://i1112.photobucket.com/albums/k495/firko2/200px-Corona_helmet_2.jpg)
(http://i1112.photobucket.com/albums/k495/firko2/200px-Corona_helmet_1.jpg)
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Steve sorry to hear that... Maybey his agent in Australia that is convincing every one that this turd is a good bloke can help you out... Over to you Ted!
Steve got his gear...I got mine
Over to you Slawesy!
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Gee Ted,
It has been so long I had forgotten what you were waiting for.. If you like waiting months for things you order more power to you.. Obviousely you have heaps of time on you hands.... The bloke is a fork wit.. and I'm guessing your one of his mates so maybey you should find new a new freind that is not full of shit.
BTW Steve had to rebuild his rebuilt motor just ask 090 and Rusty. Steve just got sick of the crap.
If your going to support this guy do it with facts especially when you support him so strongly and lead other poor unsuspectinig guys that are impressed with web site and his claims.
BUYER BEWARE!!
Over to you Agent to the shonk in Australia..
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Nice looking lid homy
Yeah, I suppose so but I'd rather my $25 Corona lid. I'm not stupid enough to think I can race with it but it's hip and happenin' for cruising the pits on the trials bike ;D
(http://i1112.photobucket.com/albums/k495/firko2/200px-Corona_helmet_2.jpg)
(http://i1112.photobucket.com/albums/k495/firko2/200px-Corona_helmet_1.jpg)
I`m with you Mark....for $100 anybody can have one of these....and you can go on the other side of the fence with it
(http://i582.photobucket.com/albums/ss270/ted84photos/001-6.jpg)
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Whatever floats your boat Ted but I don't like it. I wouldn't go "on the other side of the fence'' in an open face helmet as I treasure my George Clooney like looks too much 8). There's also a few too many stickers on it for my taste....way too busy ::). What brand is that mouthguard Ted? It doesn't look like any I've seen before, and I've got a few different types....not a criticism, just curious.
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A gentlemans protective device maybe?
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Remember - NOTHING spells bad workmanship like wrinkles in duct tape! ;D
JT mouthguard? I seem to remember they were popular just prior to fullface helmets taking over.
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JT mouthguard is correct. $ 4.95 from a BMX shop in VIC this year. Not bad for an original period bit of gear. As useless as it is.
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They were cool in the mid 80's, JT called them the Mouthtrap ;),I recall Jeff Leisk & Ray Vandenberg using them in the 83 Mr MX series,oh yeah & me too in the back of bumf**k club champs :D
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FWIW the swingarm i got does not fit the bike he advertised it for.
which doesnt actually bother me as i want to butcher the mount for use on a different bike anyway. But if i had have purchased it for the bike he said it suited, id be pissed..!
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Surprise, surprise, surprise!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
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FWIW the swingarm i got does not fit the bike he advertised it for.
Sorry to hear that Steveo, I wonder how many guys have just put up with the crap this bloke continually delivers?? I think he is just lucky we are so easy going over here, just as well for him most guys just get on with it and keep quite..
Ted, I really do not know why you defend this bloke, from all accounts you are a good fella.. How many more guys do you need to comment on this bloke before you realise that he is not worth your time?
SLAWESY
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FWIW the swingarm i got does not fit the bike he advertised it for.
Sorry to hear that Steveo, I wonder how many guys have just put up with the crap this bloke continually delivers?? I think he is just lucky we are so easy going over here, just as well for him most guys just get on with it and keep quite..
Ted, I really do not know why you defend this bloke, from all accounts you are a good fella.. How many more guys do you need to comment on this bloke before you realise that he is not worth your time?
SLAWESY
I defend him because he has always delivered exactly what i have ordered. Quite often he chucks other stuff in as he has done this time to cover the inconvenience.
I feel for the other guys that have had a bad experience. Ask Walshy who sent him a kickstarter free of charge when i found out it wasn`t in his purchase.Do you think I am responsible for all these guys getting shafted? You listing me as his agent in Australia sure sounds like it!
Don`t worry yourself with whom i defend....It`s not worth your time
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Don`t worry yourself with whom i defend....It`s not worth your time
Sure is worth my time, If I can stop one person getting shafted by this asshole then its worth it..
BTW Ted, ever heard the expression "if you lie down with dogs you get up with fleas" there has been enough interest in this post for people to form their own opinion about him and you.
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Well for now I am going to add my own caution out there on this business "Back in the Day MX". (Owner Don Mendenhall). ::)
If he does the right thing I'll update this thread.
- Order took 3 months to arrive. ???
- Order missing 1 part costing $110 USD. ???
- Order contains brake torque arm that doesn't fit the bike specified; YZ465G. ($165 USD) ???
- Order contains wheel spacers that have been poorly polished off to try and remove red anodising, leaving red behind in the creases and waves in the surface. (I ordered natural aluminium finish). Very amateurish and unattractive, I wont be fitting them. ($80) ???
So far he hasn't replied to my emails over this matter, which were polite and positive about a resolution.
Web search shows he has done this before. Hence why I am happy to add my experiences to the pile.
One of those forum's posters had to pass the matter to a business improvement body in California to get any action. (BBB?)
If only I had done my homework before I gave him my order and $$$. I guess I trusted in his ritzy website and fast emailing at the start, etc.
It is a real shame as he is a VMX enthusiast like us, and he can do beautiful work when he wants; (brake adjuster, clutch arm extender and brake torque arm are very nicely made). Plus he was friendly and helpful in his pre shipping emails.
I can machine down the torque arm end to fit my G, but the spacers and missing part (TLS alloy adjuster) are just a write off as far as I can see. So I am now $190 USD out of pocket and highly pi**ed off. >:(
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Welcome to the pissed off with Don club !
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Well many unanswered emails and SMS's later I took the advice of others over on the IT forum and raised a complaint through the San Fran BBB office.
Interestingly they have quite a file on our friend Don Mendenhall; ;D
http://www.bbb.org/greater-san-francisco/business-reviews/bicycles-repair/back-in-the-day-mx-in-livermore-ca-389927/complaints
The BBB want 10 business days to attempt a resolution. I'm not holding my breath... :-\
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Where is our old mate Ted?? Thought he might of "chimed in" to defend this arsehole by now. ..
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Where is our old mate Ted?? Thought he might of "chimed in" to defend this arsehole by now. ..
Well if you read his BBB profile I don't think you'd want your name passed around as a supporter! :)
Don't get me wrong, perhaps he isn't all bad and he may yet fix this mess up.
Why not? After all he has my money so he's not losing anything by refunding me for parts he never sent or junk he shouldn't have tried to send... I have even offered to save him sending a correct YZ465G brake torque arm by machining the front end down to the correct thickness. But like every other email and SMS I've sent (all polite), its received no reply.
I would be more than happy to report back to this thread saying he's done the right thing. :)
Meantime he has been advertising items for sale on his website, taking money from customers and sending emails stating that he has sent parts that he hasn't. I note others got exactly the same BS story re postage that I got too. That being that the USPS international parcel he sent mysteriously had no tracking number (not possible according to USPS), and could take forever. Funny that mine came with a tracking number...
Theft by deception rings a bell. The total order was $565 USD, so that's a felony isn't it? ;D
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Where is our old mate Ted?? Thought he might of "chimed in" to defend this arsehole by now. ..
Can i interest you in a Tee or cap
(http://i582.photobucket.com/albums/ss270/ted84photos/006-3.jpg) (http://s582.photobucket.com/user/ted84photos/media/006-3.jpg.html)
Or maybe some billet
(http://i582.photobucket.com/albums/ss270/ted84photos/005-4.jpg) (http://s582.photobucket.com/user/ted84photos/media/005-4.jpg.html)
What about a lid
(http://i582.photobucket.com/albums/ss270/ted84photos/001-7.jpg) (http://s582.photobucket.com/user/ted84photos/media/001-7.jpg.html)
All ( and more ) delivered as ordered
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That's nice that YOU got what you ordered, however 1 satisfied customer does not make up for others wronged. ???
Its akin to saying that Hitler was probably nice to Eva Braun so we can just forget about WW2...
If he is really such a good guy why not use your influence to get him to behave properly?
3 months of excuses and delays to receive anything, 2 weeks with no responses to emails, 1 week with no responses to SMS's.
Need I repeat, this guy;
Took $110 of my money for goods he failed to deliver, and
Took $175 of my money for an incorrect part, and
Took $ 80 for substandard goods.
(Not including postage)
Well the BBB is onto him now, so if still you think hes so great you might want to check out their rating of him (F) and his recent track record of non responses to their attempts to resolve customer complaints.
Defend him all you like, but if the BBB get no joy then the FBI's internet fraud department will be notified. Feel free to pass that message on...
All I have asked him to do is reply to polite emails, and refund the missing and defective parts. It seems he adopts the Ostrich policy of pretending the emails don't exist and that if he ignores them, dissatisfied customers will just go away. Well this one won't...
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You say the BBB is onto him. They have an unresolved case against him from 13/6/2012. That's nearly two years. How much longer are you going to give them to get the joy you desire. Forget them!
The FBI. Are you serious. They can't find a plane that disappeared, let alone a few bike parts. Forget them also.
I suggest that anyone who is waiting for stuff to be delivered do exactly as I did. Get up at 4am Saturday morning and ring him. Worked every time.
I received everything I ordered and then some. The quality of his work far outweighed the waiting time. Like he has said on numerous occasions he is having health issues.
As a matter of fact back on July 30 2011 ( over two and a half years ago ) he stated in this thread that he would deliver parts to your door and then you pay him for the goods when satisfied. The only stipulation was you pay the shipping first. Why didn't you take that option?
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Its akin to saying that Hitler was probably nice to Eva Braun so we can just forget about WW2...
That's a crack up ;D.
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You say the BBB is onto him. They have an unresolved case against him from 13/6/2012. That's nearly two years. How much longer are you going to give them to get the joy you desire. Forget them!
The FBI. Are you serious. They can't find a plane that disappeared, let alone a few bike parts. Forget them also.
I suggest that anyone who is waiting for stuff to be delivered do exactly as I did. Get up at 4am Saturday morning and ring him. Worked every time.
I received everything I ordered and then some. The quality of his work far outweighed the waiting time. Like he has said on numerous occasions he is having health issues.
As a matter of fact back on July 30 2011 ( over two and a half years ago ) he stated in this thread that he would deliver parts to your door and then you pay him for the goods when satisfied. The only stipulation was you pay the shipping first. Why didn't you take that option?
What are you his mother now? Weird how it's now the customers fault that he takes money for things he never sends or for incorrect or substandard parts. Stranger still considering you yourself had to chase the guy to get your stuff. I am restoring 3 bikes right now and finished another VMX restoration last year (check out the IT forum for my IT200L), so I have been buying a sh*t load of VMX parts from within OZ and overseas, from dozens of traders. No one else has been this bad. We know he has a wife, can't she check his emails? And if he really is sick, she can simply send out a proforma response saying so. It's not rocket science...
For what it's worth I never saw that 2.5 yo post, I learnt about him from a google search for YZ465 billet parts that showed his website. Or perhaps I should have asked a psychic about him? Some of us don't have time to waste pre-researching every single trader we buy from.
Remember he was very communicative up until he "completed" my order, since then nada. That tells a story in itself.
As for quality of work? Well that's debatable; some bits were very nicely made for sure, but the wheel spacers he sent are just ugly junk, with bits of red anodising left behind and polishing waves in the alloy. And the $175 USD brake torque arm he sent has one end machined to the wrong size. i.e. not fit for purpose. High quality? Not always it seems.
Health problems? Then say so on his business's website, even suspending sales for a time if need be, OR get help with communications or orders etc, but remember - this is a web based parts business that takes your money, not UNICEF.
Whilst from the outset I have had little faith in the BBB as they have no real legal powers, I do try to step these things up gradually, so giving the offender a chance to see the error of their ways. Plus one guy posted that the BBB worked for him so why not give it a try? And yes I have been sending him multiple SMS's at very early US west coast hours for several days now, and calling too, alas he's not answering his mobile. I have left messages on his smooth sounding voicemail, but Nada! Its been 9 days since my first email complaint, with no responses to anything... is that how one runs a business?
The FBI tip off page simply puts him in their database etc., and I too seriously doubt they care. However with still no response from him I moved on to filing a tip to the Feds a few hours ago. Given his continued non communication and his demonstrated disregard for the BBB's attempts to resolve complaints made against him I felt I had to go that next step.
Not living in the US let alone CA I can't just rock up to his place with a bat in hand, and of course that's what he trades on. Do what he likes because who's gonna come calling, etc...
SMS phone and email activity will continue while I wait for the BBB and maybe even the FBI's înternet fraud division to reply. (Highly Unlikely I know, but ya never know ).
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No mate, I am not his mother. I'm just a guy who ordered some parts and got them delivered. Sure I had to wait a bit to get one item, but I also didn't threaten to send Elliot Ness around to his place.
I'll tell you what I will do. You PM me your name you supplied when you ordered the parts, what parts are missing and any other grievances you have with him and I will contact him this week for you.
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Thanks for the offer Ted, but do you have any more channels of communication with him than I?
I have his email address, physical address and phone number. I've tried multiple emails, SMS's and phone calls. Nada so far.
Do you live near Livermore CA? Great if so, I would really appreciate you dropping by his place if convenient. Otherwise if you have another number or something please PM me and I'll take care of it. I will be polite when contacting him as I have been throughout this process.
If you feel like chatting to him over it you wouldn't need my name anyway. He has got a bunch of emails and SMS's there so he knows the deal;
- Refund my YZ465 TLS linkage (missing from the undamaged parcel) $110 USD.
- Refund my YZ465G wheel spacers (I ordered natural alloy but he sent red ones that had been polished to try and remove the colour. They look like crap. $80 USD.
- Partial refund of the $175 USD for the YZ465G brake torque arm which doesn't fit and requires one end to be machined down from 23mm to 14mm thick. (i.e. part not fit for purpose / doesn't fit). This will save him sending the correct one if he at least offers to compensate me for the hassle and disappointment.
As for Elliot Ness, well what other options are there from over here in OZ? Thus far he has seemingly ignored a paying customer's concerns and is non-communicative, and appears to have snubbed the BBB. I am not interested in throwing away basically $200+ without trying to at least prevent others suffering the same fate. At least they will be forewarned and thus have a better chance at achieving satisfaction.
I am hopeful he will still do the right thing here, and will happily advise the forum if he does... :)
Everyone deserves a chance to redeem themselves, but its fair to say he's had a few chances already.
There are mixed messages here for sure; he can do nice work when he wants to, and he can communicate when he wants to, he sounds friendly on the phone and folks say his wife seems nice, so I feel he's probably not all bad. But actions speak louder than words...
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I just have his number from his site. I will call him this week anyway.
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Well done Ted for putting your hand up once again as the Aussie agent/spin doctor for this "dipshit".
Why don't you give every on who has had a drama with this moron your OZ number seeing as you get on so well with him and can sort out the dramas so easily.
Hoping you might get a result for "mugus" with your obvious long distance love affair with him by shaming him into some action. God knows why you would even need to do that if he was an upright and honest guy.
Sure that "mungus" as a relatively new member of the VMX forum community is so glad to have a guy like you with your standing in the forum referring business to this knob. Way to go ...doing the right thing by the VMX community. NOT!! :o
SLAWESY
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Well it looks like the BBB and my repetitive Comms have done the trick. Well partially at least.
A day after the BBB told me they have contacted him, he has sent me $30 via PayPal to get the torque arm machined. :)
He's also promised to send the missing TLS adjuster and replace the wheel spacers. :o
Still no reply to my emails or SMSs though (this was via PayPal).
Given the history I'll wait until I see the promised parts to call game over, but it's definitely progress.
Perhaps it's as some say, he's just poorly organised and needs a kick occasionally.
A shame given his VMX passions and machining abilities. Checking off orders before posting and checking emails is all it takes.
So there ya go! Worth standing up for your consumer rights...
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Well a week has gone by with no more word from Don.
He has also failed to reply to emails and Skype SMS's asking when he plans on sending the promised missing TLS linkage or replacing the ugly wheel spacers he sent. Now of course I don't expect them to arrive that fast but given his supposed willingness to put this right a reply might have been advisable. Or perhaps he thinks palming me $30 USD is enough to make this all go away?
Well I've news for him if so. On top of the BBB I've now discovered another agency with more teeth that deals with this sort of thing in the US motor trade. As far as I'm concerned he still owes me $190 USD + postage for those missing and bodged parts.
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An update for you all. 8)
Today I received $111 USD from Don for the missing TLS linkage. He sent a note saying that's then end of it! :o
Funny but I could swear he still owes me $80 plus post for a set of bodged wheel spacers, which he already stated he would replace...
Its progress I suppose, but the jerk still owes me money and has once again gone back on his word.
One other thing in his note made me laugh a bit. He claimed he had refunded the $30 so I could correct a part to "my satisfaction". Implying I was a fussy bugger or something... The rear brake torque arm he sent was unusable as sent. Both end plates were WAY too big to fit and the swivel joint was the wrong ID. Took over an hour to fix it, using a fly cutter to trim down both ends and then I had to reuse my OEM swivel joint. Luckily its OD was the same otherwise I would have to buy a new one. To my "satisfaction" eh? Apart from using it as "garage art" I cant imagine anyone being satisfied with it. It was simply not fit for the advertised purpose. IMHO he was lucky I had the skills to fix it and offered to do so, otherwise he'd would be up for a refund on that too. Thanks from him for fixing his mess? What do you think? ;D
My recommendation; DO NOT deal with this man. He is not only very slow (3 months) to make your order, but once paid becomes uncommunicative, sends unusable or substandard products and / or fails to even send the paid for items at all.
IME he also goes back on his word and attempts to short change you on refunds. He also charged me double the postage he paid, on the original order...
Just a total jerk in my view. But hopefully the lessons I've learnt can be avoided by other readers here.