Bikewinds II
03-16-05 | 11:46 AM
#1
Thread Starter
Senior Member
Joined: Feb 2005
Posts: 504
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From: OC, California
Bikes: '04 Specialized Stumpy FSR Pro (Frame and Shock Only)
Bikewinds II
A couple of weeks ago a poster on these boards asked about a company called "Bikewinds" that supposedly sells "quality" bikes for bargain basement prices due to the fact that they don't spend money on marketing and promotions. I read their "about" page in an effort to find out more about them and was somewhat surprised to find that the text of their "about" page was rife with major spelling and grammatical errors; a death knell when a company is trying to sell to consumers who are even moderately educated.
Considering my profession (marketing executive with a very well established ad agency) I emailed them to let them know that they might want to take a look at their text in an effort to - perhaps - retain sales that they might otherwise be losing due to the fact that someone didn't pay attention to detail.
The first correspondence was cordial - actually grateful - and asked if I would point out specifics. Given the fact that I have absolutely zero reason to do anything for them I explained that, while I don't really have the time (or the desire) to proofread their copy, they could easily call around and find a proofreader who would do the work for them for a small fee. In addition, I let them know that if they wanted to discuss some kind of arrangement I would consider re-writing their copy for them on a freelance basis. No sell, just a thought that popped into my head.
Anyway, the knob who answers the emails, "Henry," came back at me with a pretty unbelievable response that I figured I'd post here...enjoy and let me know what you think:
Considering my profession (marketing executive with a very well established ad agency) I emailed them to let them know that they might want to take a look at their text in an effort to - perhaps - retain sales that they might otherwise be losing due to the fact that someone didn't pay attention to detail.
The first correspondence was cordial - actually grateful - and asked if I would point out specifics. Given the fact that I have absolutely zero reason to do anything for them I explained that, while I don't really have the time (or the desire) to proofread their copy, they could easily call around and find a proofreader who would do the work for them for a small fee. In addition, I let them know that if they wanted to discuss some kind of arrangement I would consider re-writing their copy for them on a freelance basis. No sell, just a thought that popped into my head.
Anyway, the knob who answers the emails, "Henry," came back at me with a pretty unbelievable response that I figured I'd post here...enjoy and let me know what you think:
I see! To be honest with you, I have received better marketing emails from your Nigerian friends. This is a new low! Why wasting your and others' time doing obvious tricks like this?! With your liberal arts degree,you have a better chance making a few bucks pouring coffee for customers at your local restaurants.
Wow, "marketing executive", I am very impressed indeed - just wondering how successful are you marketing yourself to European tourists?
Final advice: go eat sh*t! That's what your kinds are really good for.
Do I spell "sh*t" wrong? Should it be a plural?
HAHA
----- Original Message -----
To: bikewind
Sent: Monday, March 14, 2005 6:56 PM
Subject: Re: Why?
I don't really have the time to go through and make the corrections but the errors are numerous. I would suggest sending your copy to a proofreading service; they will be able to provide you with a specific list of errors and they can give you suggestions as to how to correct them while still maintaining your core messaging. Most services are relatively inexpensive but, regardless of cost, you're likely going to make up the difference as you gain sales that, otherwise, would have been lost.
I'm a marketing executive for an ad agency here in Newport Beach, CA and would be happy to discuss rewriting the copy for your site. My services would not be free but I'd be willing to do it on a freelance basis in order to save you some money. If that's something that interests you, let me know and we can make arrangements to speak.
Sincerely,
Chris Messina
bikewind <bikewind@bikewind.com> wrote:
Thanks for pointing out our spelling errors. Could you be more specific?
Best regards,
Henry
----- Original Message -----
To: info@bikewind.com
Sent: Monday, March 14, 2005 3:36 PM
Subject: Why?
Someone on a MB was asking about your bikes and offered a link to your website. Upon review of the site there's one thing that stands out above and beyond all else: your sites horrendous spelling/grammar.
Whether this is the case or not, this lack of attention to detail reflects upon the your company as a whole and tells me, and virtually every other reader who's commented on the site, that, if you can't ensure that a small thing, such as a website, is put together in a manner that is - at the very least - readable, then you're probably skimping on quality in other areas and therefore driving sales right out the door.
This was just a piece of free advice, take it for what you will.
Wow, "marketing executive", I am very impressed indeed - just wondering how successful are you marketing yourself to European tourists?
Final advice: go eat sh*t! That's what your kinds are really good for.
Do I spell "sh*t" wrong? Should it be a plural?
HAHA
----- Original Message -----
To: bikewind
Sent: Monday, March 14, 2005 6:56 PM
Subject: Re: Why?
I don't really have the time to go through and make the corrections but the errors are numerous. I would suggest sending your copy to a proofreading service; they will be able to provide you with a specific list of errors and they can give you suggestions as to how to correct them while still maintaining your core messaging. Most services are relatively inexpensive but, regardless of cost, you're likely going to make up the difference as you gain sales that, otherwise, would have been lost.
I'm a marketing executive for an ad agency here in Newport Beach, CA and would be happy to discuss rewriting the copy for your site. My services would not be free but I'd be willing to do it on a freelance basis in order to save you some money. If that's something that interests you, let me know and we can make arrangements to speak.
Sincerely,
Chris Messina
bikewind <bikewind@bikewind.com> wrote:
Thanks for pointing out our spelling errors. Could you be more specific?
Best regards,
Henry
----- Original Message -----
To: info@bikewind.com
Sent: Monday, March 14, 2005 3:36 PM
Subject: Why?
Someone on a MB was asking about your bikes and offered a link to your website. Upon review of the site there's one thing that stands out above and beyond all else: your sites horrendous spelling/grammar.
Whether this is the case or not, this lack of attention to detail reflects upon the your company as a whole and tells me, and virtually every other reader who's commented on the site, that, if you can't ensure that a small thing, such as a website, is put together in a manner that is - at the very least - readable, then you're probably skimping on quality in other areas and therefore driving sales right out the door.
This was just a piece of free advice, take it for what you will.
03-16-05 | 12:08 PM
#2
Wood Licker
Joined: Apr 2002
Posts: 16,966
Likes: 2
From: Whistler,BC
Bikes: Trek Fuel EX 8 27.5 +, 2002 Transition Dirtbag, Kona Roast 2002
Classic response. Its amazing how little most people know about marketting in any way. Considering how cordial you were I don't see why he needed to respond in such an ignorant way.
03-16-05 | 12:16 PM
#3
Thread Starter
Senior Member
Joined: Feb 2005
Posts: 504
Likes: 0
From: OC, California
Bikes: '04 Specialized Stumpy FSR Pro (Frame and Shock Only)
Originally Posted by Maelstrom
Classic response. Its amazing how little most people know about marketting in any way. Considering how cordial you were I don't see why he needed to respond in such an ignorant way.
03-16-05 | 12:51 PM
#4
Colorado Trail Rider
Joined: Nov 2004
Posts: 194
Likes: 0
wow, what a response, very professional.
I checked out the site, the bikes are not what I would consider quality bike, suspect frame design and marginal components and only one size available per model (?).
with the 'bargin" prices, they are still probably making 40% or so margin on those heaps.
I checked out the site, the bikes are not what I would consider quality bike, suspect frame design and marginal components and only one size available per model (?).
with the 'bargin" prices, they are still probably making 40% or so margin on those heaps.
03-16-05 | 01:24 PM
#5
Too Much Crazy
Joined: Feb 2005
Posts: 3,660
Likes: 3
From: NY
Bikes: Eriksen 29er, Gunnar Roadie, Niner RLT, Niner RIP 9
Originally Posted by btadlock
and only one size available per model (?).
.
.
The 'Lance' Model fits ''Most people between 5'6'' and 6'3'' "
Wow !
What a custom fitting program they have established.
03-16-05 | 02:05 PM
#7
What?
Joined: Oct 2003
Posts: 1,650
Likes: 0
From: N. Tx
Bikes: Bianchi Brava(retired), Surly Instigator(retired)
What a complete moron, I could see how he could see as a scam but he didn't have to respond so rudely. It complete blows my mind how a person, who works for a company and thus speaks for that company when responding to an email or any other type of communication, could have total disreguard my respect. WOW! This is one company thats going to tank.
03-16-05 | 02:05 PM
#8
Thread Starter
Senior Member
Joined: Feb 2005
Posts: 504
Likes: 0
From: OC, California
Bikes: '04 Specialized Stumpy FSR Pro (Frame and Shock Only)
Originally Posted by mmerner
I could see how he would mistake your emails for spam or scam.
Regardless, his response was totally unprofessional and, given the totality of the evidence here, it would appear as though this company is not someone anyone looking for a legitimate MTB should ever do business with.
03-16-05 | 08:35 PM
#9
Thread Starter
Senior Member
Joined: Feb 2005
Posts: 504
Likes: 0
From: OC, California
Bikes: '04 Specialized Stumpy FSR Pro (Frame and Shock Only)
...and the crap continues. I just received this email from Bikewinds. Nice company they're running...
An AIDS-ridden hooligan tried to libel us after his failed extortion
attempt. The harder he tries, the better off we will be. We welcome all
the publicity we can get for free. Please tell your friend that another way
to get us is to buy adwords in places such as google and yahoo, etc. and
link the click-through to our spelling errors. That will really hurt us!
They should have outlawed marriage between blood relatives long time ago.
Now we all have to live in a world with all idiots running amok!
----- Original Message -----
From: "John Huber" <>
To: <info@bikewind.com>
Sent: Wednesday, March 16, 2005 4:17 PM
Subject: Bike forum discussion of your company
> You might find this of some interest.
> https://www.bikeforums.net/showthread.php?t=93337
>
attempt. The harder he tries, the better off we will be. We welcome all
the publicity we can get for free. Please tell your friend that another way
to get us is to buy adwords in places such as google and yahoo, etc. and
link the click-through to our spelling errors. That will really hurt us!
They should have outlawed marriage between blood relatives long time ago.
Now we all have to live in a world with all idiots running amok!
----- Original Message -----
From: "John Huber" <>
To: <info@bikewind.com>
Sent: Wednesday, March 16, 2005 4:17 PM
Subject: Bike forum discussion of your company
> You might find this of some interest.
> https://www.bikeforums.net/showthread.php?t=93337
>
Last edited by CranxOC; 03-16-05 at 08:44 PM.
03-16-05 | 08:43 PM
#10
it sounds like a kid running the operation, any expirienced business person would not reply like that. Good luck to them, they need it
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03-16-05 | 11:53 PM
#13
I couldn't car less.
Joined: Nov 2003
Posts: 4,397
Likes: 0
Bikes: Ritchey P-series prototype, Diamondback, Nishiki Triathelon Pro.
3'rd hit if Googled. Says forget it in soo many ways. Dig your own hole I say.
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03-17-05 | 07:01 PM
#14
Thread Starter
Senior Member
Joined: Feb 2005
Posts: 504
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From: OC, California
Bikes: '04 Specialized Stumpy FSR Pro (Frame and Shock Only)
Originally Posted by jeff williams
3'rd hit if Googled. Says forget it in soo many ways. Dig your own hole I say.[/COLOR]
That's even better than the fact that they don't even show up on "Eurekster" (great search engine BTW) or Yahoo!
03-21-05 | 09:15 AM
#15
Newbie
Joined: Mar 2005
Posts: 1
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I read their About US page and I didn't detect any spelling errors. Am I missing something or there is more to your story?
I live in the DC area. Several months ago I read a piece of news on the local newspaper about the owner of this company. The gist of the story was about him donating a large sum of his personal money to the Fisher Houses serving Brooke Army Medical Center where they treat wounded soldiers came back from Iraq. As a desert-storm veteran, the story touched me deeply. I just cannot see a man of his virtue writing the trash you posted.
We don’t know your true identity nor do we know your agenda. However, I will contact this company and find out if they know anything about this. Stay tuned.
I live in the DC area. Several months ago I read a piece of news on the local newspaper about the owner of this company. The gist of the story was about him donating a large sum of his personal money to the Fisher Houses serving Brooke Army Medical Center where they treat wounded soldiers came back from Iraq. As a desert-storm veteran, the story touched me deeply. I just cannot see a man of his virtue writing the trash you posted.
We don’t know your true identity nor do we know your agenda. However, I will contact this company and find out if they know anything about this. Stay tuned.
03-21-05 | 12:33 PM
#16
Thread Starter
Senior Member
Joined: Feb 2005
Posts: 504
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From: OC, California
Bikes: '04 Specialized Stumpy FSR Pro (Frame and Shock Only)
Originally Posted by wolfhh
I read their About US page and I didn't detect any spelling errors. Am I missing something or there is more to your story?
I live in the DC area. Several months ago I read a piece of news on the local newspaper about the owner of this company. The gist of the story was about him donating a large sum of his personal money to the Fisher Houses serving Brooke Army Medical Center where they treat wounded soldiers came back from Iraq. As a desert-storm veteran, the story touched me deeply. I just cannot see a man of his virtue writing the trash you posted.
We don’t know your true identity nor do we know your agenda. However, I will contact this company and find out if they know anything about this. Stay tuned.
I live in the DC area. Several months ago I read a piece of news on the local newspaper about the owner of this company. The gist of the story was about him donating a large sum of his personal money to the Fisher Houses serving Brooke Army Medical Center where they treat wounded soldiers came back from Iraq. As a desert-storm veteran, the story touched me deeply. I just cannot see a man of his virtue writing the trash you posted.
We don’t know your true identity nor do we know your agenda. However, I will contact this company and find out if they know anything about this. Stay tuned.
I even went so far as to call the company after I received the initial email in order to find out why I had received such a response and, after speaking with a "Henry" (he advised me that there were two "Henry's" at the company) he advised me that he did not write the letter and would call me back once he found out who had done so and why. Instead of calling me back however, I received another email calling me "AIDS" ridden, etc.
That's great that someone would donate money to a worthy cause however, that does not change the fact that they were completely and utterly out of line in their dealings with me, nor does it change the fact that the lack of attention to detail paid to a small thing such as an "about" page simply leads one to believe that they will lack the necessary attention to detail to build a bike that will not fall apart underneath you.
Finally, you are more than willing to interject yourself into this situation but take note of the last guy who did so; he message is posted above and, instead of thanking him for pointing out the fact that their name was being tarnished on a message board (something I had already pointed out to them), they insulted the guy and personally attacked him as well.
Good luck though, I can't wait to hear what you have to say.
P.S. My entire correspondence with them, to date, is posted on this thread. There is no "hidden agenda" here; what you see is what you get.
