Christhonie

In a modern world where we shop from all over the globe we sometimes face different problems than shopping from the LBS. My recent online purchase of a bike from Planet-X's online store in the UK is one good example; when the goods go missing and you have to deal with a support team hiding behind an email system; things can become frustrating. My email is merely an example of what can go wrong and to also single out a vendor who I do not recommend you ever use based on personal experience. Planet-X have great products that are priced competitively, but you need to offset that against a disorganized company with really bad service. I placed an order 68 days ago; a bike, some wheels and odds-and-ends. The wheels have arrived, but the rest is still missing with no end in sight. The support team takes at least 24 hours to respond to your emails. The support team commits to follow up, but does not respond, repeatedly! Support tickets remain unanswered for 18 days and when you follow up they have closed it, even though the next action is a follow up from them. They told me; "...the issue you have had with the couriers unfortunately it is beyond our control once it leaves us." I have no contract with the courier, I have no recourse with them, nor did I even have a say in who they should use, although I had to pay quite a bit for the shipping. One moment they agree the items are missing, the next moment they confuse it with a separate order and tell me the goods have been deliverd. They fail to escalate issues, even when requested to do so. An email to Bary Dunn, the COO, remains unanswered. The issue was forwarded to David Hanney, the CEO, who have not taken any action yet. I am well aware that they are a small company, that they have good products and I cam imagine that some of you are quite happy with their service. I can unfortunately not relate to such an experience; mine being one from hell. This is merely a warning to potential buyers when ordering online or speficially when dealing with Planet-X; please take this into consideration when buying from them - vote with your wallets. Support the LBS. Chris

Hi 'Dale, you can count me in too, thanks. Weather report: Partly cloudy, maybe a few drops (do not be scared!), light breeze, 2 m/s from north-northwest.

Hi all, thanks for a great ride. Sorry to have returned a bit earlier. Just made my appointment. I was rewarded with 2 punctures, but with just one tube. One of our riders that also took "the shorter route" helped out with a patch, thanks buddy! I guess I was back minutes before you arrived in any way. Thanks Andre and our marshal for your efforts in making this possible.

Sunday, 25 Nov starting at the Total service station at the foot of Helshoogte. Burger route, 92km, 7h00 sharp!

Good thing I checked the thread before arriving there on Sat. See, my crystal ball was not lying about the rain.... I will join, but I need to catch a plane at 12h20, so expect me to ride fastest and dissappear even faster afterwards. ALL IN FAVOUR OF CHANGING RIDE TO SUNDAY 1) Wannabe 2) SyncSa 3) Nathan 4) Seabee 5) JGR maybe 6) DisyLizzy 7) Cadenceblur plus 3 8) Catgirl 9) Hellocolour 10) Berry 11) Mickey Mouse 12) alsoran 13) Christhonie 14) ReCycle-D

Confirmed riders for the 24th. JUST ADD YOUR NAMES. 1) Wannabe 2) DisyLizzy 3) cajohnston 4) SyncSA +2 5) Berry 6) Many Lemons 7) Seabee 8) Christhonie And, my crystal ball tells me it will rain!

Thanks, the ride was great! Looking forward to the 24th! Also thanks to marshal Stanley from Think Bike for supporting us.

Is daar nog 'n plekkie? Ek sal ook graag wil join.

Thanks for the advice. In Europe for the week; will visit Eddie on Sat, planning to visit the shops on Monday. There are 32 2nd hand shops in Helderberg according to the police. Where do they hide them all? Christhonie2009-09-15 14:46:36

Scott Speedster, Grey and Black, stolen in Somerset West on Saturday, 16 September 2009. Size: XL, Colour: Grey/Black with white decal Dura Ace groupsetZipp SL415 carbon stem FSA Carbon crank Powertap Pro hub (black cover secured with 2 screws)DT Swiss 32 hole wheelsPowertap Computer and wire harnessSelle Italia SLR 139g saddleContinental Gator Skin tires I would appreciate if people can keep an eye out for the bike.

I recently bought a pair of lg's (with a large velcro cuff) and a pair of Ryder's (with an elastic cuff). I found the latter much warmer, ideal for 5 degrees and below. The lg is better for around 10 degrees and up - for me, that is.