I do feel sorry for traditional retailers with shop fronts at the moment, however a lot of them don't do what is needed to ensure people keep coming back.
There are certain advantages to shops which online businesses, particularly from overseas, will never be able to match.
That is what they have to emphasise.
The "service" component is the main point of difference, and as many bike owners don't know a lot, the more informed shop owners are in terms of spares, products, servicving etc, the more likely people are to buy parts from them.
One big issue seems to be shops that don't carry a decent range of spares. Being able to waltz in and pick up a part the day you visit a shop is a huge advantage, one which I am willing to pay a 20% + premium for, without a doubt.
Many shop owners don't want the hassle of sitting on excess stock, so order on demand, but with that perspective why worth going to a shop?
After all, it will probably be cheaper online and will arrive faster.
What I would really like to see in the motorbike industry is the creation of some Australian brands. While they don't have to be Aus made (which would be great but not practical), we all know after all that the U.S stuff is made in China, but having brands which aren't filtered through the U.S would mean Aussie suppliers can supply goods at competitive prices.
Probably a bit too much to ask at this stage as the industry is in a bit of a lull, but it's not out of the question, one that it would be great if someone looked at eventually.