Splash Motorcycles in St. Ives

In 30 years of motorcycle ownership (having bought 16 bikes) I've never experienced such appalling customer service nor met such a grumpy individual as the owner of Splash motorcycles. The unique and very seller unfriendly Splash policy is not to allow test rides (when I said to the sales lady would you buy a used bike without test riding it, she shrugged her shoulders as if to say she agreed). The very rude and incredibly grumpy owner reluctantly jump started the very rattly Ducati 749 engine, after I requested to hear it running. His sour chops and hand dog expression betrayed he was not happy to take the fairing off to access (you guessed it) the flat battery When I queried the rattly engine noise, the owner barked, with some vitreol, 'they all sound like that, Youtube it' Now I'm certainly no mechanic, but I wasn't convinced all was as it should be. So, although I had some reservations about the mechanics I asked if anything would need doing to it to get it into top condition, again, I received a 'nothing at all' response. OK I thought, you are clearly reluctant to open up, so I'll cut straight to the money chat. When negotiating a price 'it's what its up for on the windscreen, it's up to you to come up with the money' isn't exactly a great way to talk to a customer. All in all, Splash is a backstreet garage to avoid in my opinion. Good luck to anyone who wants to part with their cash without a test ride, and although they offer a 3 month warranty with very bike, I doubt you'd get anything out of the owner who will argue that black is white all day long. However, if you enjoy being bullied into buying a bike, pay them a visit, you won't be disappointed. I'm glad I walked away with my £4000 still in my wallet, I have no hesitation in saying this is the worst 'dealership' I have ever wandered into. Splash do not appear to want to sell their bikes or take my money. At the end of the day, that's their choice, as it was my choice to leave without giving them a single penny. I'd award zero stars, but This site insists I award at least one.

Barry is a first Class engineer mechanic with a decency to discuss the workings of motorbikes, the mechanic and a thorough MOT. All servicing is spot on whilst using his shop for about 3 years friendly let's you study browse and check out his stock including safety gear. The staff have always looked after me and allowed me to hang around until job done. Recommend his stock because of the way he's serviced etc my Bonneyville. Don't understand any negative vibes posts Man ?

Do not buy a bike from this dealer, or accessories, or go there for any service work. If you do, you'll be subjected to extremely poor customer service from owner Barry, who does things entirely on his own terms and when convenient for him. I know of several people who have bought bikes from here in the past, only to discover various faults - blown light bulbs (for a bike with a supposed fresh MOT), filthy chains and more serious faults. The warranty he offers through a third party company is, in his own words, useless. I need say no more.