Climate Posted July 30, 2019 Posted July 30, 2019 I have performed many memorable transactions on the Hub, both sales and purchases. But my most recent transaction has been completely different and am looking for advice on what action to take. All comms was via mail or WhatsApp, as I am in Cpt and the Seller in Jhb. I have a passion for slightly older bikes and have built up many over the years ... my most recent project being a classic. I have recently acquired a Colnago C40 frame in excellent condition, so when I saw an advert for a complete Campag Super Record groupset that had "never crashed" with approx 10 000km for R12000, I was immediately interested. But I noticed in the advert that the cassette was 14-25, which I wasn't aware Campag even offered ... and asked to exclude the cassette (since a 14 small sprocket wouldn't work for me) and the price was reduced by R1000, which seemed reasonable. But because I was not able to view the groupset personally, I asked to speak to the LBS that was dismantling the bike for the seller (well renowned shop btw). The shop informed me that the groupset was "shiny and new" and indicated that there were not even scuff marks on the cranks arms. Since the Campag Ultra-torque crank has ceramic BB bearings attached to the axles, I specifically asked about the conditions of the bearings, which the shop rep told me were "perfect". Based on that feedback, I went ahead with the EFT. The package arrived 3 days later ... and upon opening it that evening, found the following: - Both hoods were torn - The right brake lever housing was damaged so that the lever does not return under its own lightweight spring - The right hand shift lever (under the brake lever) has been replaced, but not with a carbon Super Record lever, so does not match the left lever. - The crank arms have got grooves worn into them from rubbing on cycling shoes, which are deep enough to have removed some of the Campagnolo logo (under the clearcoat) - The BB bearing on the drive side could be spun freely and heard from at least a meter away as it continued to spin. I contacted the seller (via WhatsApp) that same evening, to inform him of the issue with the lever, in the hope of returning the set of levers for a refund. I was disappointed, but prepared to live with the crank condition and hoped that servicing the BB bearing was all that was required. His response however was that the lever was "working okay" when he sent it to me. I then sent photos and a short video demonstrating the problem. The final response (he has subsequently failed to respond), was that the groupset was "sold at a very good price" and he is willing to "help with R1000 towards a replacement shifter". I have provided my bank details and followed up asking if any refund was made, but as mentioned above ... no response ... and no refund. It is 2 weeks now since I last attempted calling the seller directly as well as via WhatsApp and mail on the Hub, requesting simply to reverse the entire transaction. So all components are still in the box as received (since I don't yet have bars, stem or headset for the frame, so have not commenced with the build).
bikebloke Posted July 30, 2019 Posted July 30, 2019 if you believe you have been wronged and you want to go this route with this issue(public)then save yourself a lot of time and many many pointless commentsname names (seller + LBS) post more pics of items and find the ad in your browser history (and the ad pics) and post it
Climate Posted July 31, 2019 Author Posted July 31, 2019 I've notified the seller and shared the link, in the hope that this can be settled amicably before naming names. Thanks for the advice.
Long Wheel Base Posted August 1, 2019 Posted August 1, 2019 I think more pictures would be a good option. Also if the seller can come give his view it would also help. You going to have to name and shame though!!!!
Traveler Posted August 1, 2019 Posted August 1, 2019 Think it is time for naming and shaming, tomorrow is Friday. Please also name the bike shop that reported it as "perfect". Share all the pics.
tyboy0406 Posted August 1, 2019 Posted August 1, 2019 Just my 2 Cents worth, always get someone you trust to view something your buying over the internet as far as second hand goods go. request more pictures of a purchase especially when the value of goods exceeds 4k. Both bike shop and seller gain benefits by giving you misleading information. I hope your project continues and you enjoy riding the bike.
Patchelicious Posted August 1, 2019 Posted August 1, 2019 Unless you name the seller and LBS, they will have little incentive to respond.
RobertWhitehead Posted August 1, 2019 Posted August 1, 2019 That always sucks when a seller just "dumps" his crap onto someone else! You actually know, come to think of it, I actually believe that I've got a good solution for the Hub to resolve this issue once and for all: Why not use a volunteering system from the current Hubbers in the said area of the seller? Let's take the current situation - you now decide to inquire about the product and in the same breath you make contact with a volunteer in the area, said person then goes on your behalf and looks at the items. Ya there's some things I've not considered yet but the model could definitely work
m-squared Posted August 1, 2019 Posted August 1, 2019 That always sucks when a seller just "dumps" his crap onto someone else! You actually know, come to think of it, I actually believe that I've got a good solution for the Hub to resolve this issue once and for all: Why not use a volunteering system from the current Hubbers in the said area of the seller? Let's take the current situation - you now decide to inquire about the product and in the same breath you make contact with a volunteer in the area, said person then goes on your behalf and looks at the items. Ya there's some things I've not considered yet but the model could definitely work It's been mentioned before in numerous threads in passing but maybe what we need are dedicated threads per region/area where buyers can reach out to ask for assistance?
Patchelicious Posted August 1, 2019 Posted August 1, 2019 This witch hunt sure is off to a slow start.Why is this a “witch hunt”?
Dirkitech Posted August 1, 2019 Posted August 1, 2019 Why is this a “witch hunt”?Because someone hurt a pretty campy groupset and should answer for the injured cosmetics!
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