[A great HD shop] RAM - Real American Motorcycle San Jose

My front tire is about 8 years old, and my rear tire is totally worn. Tires on motorcycles, especially Harleys, don't last long. On average, a Harley's rear tire is worn in about 8k to 10k miles. Front tire usually lasts longer like 2x of rear tire. However, once it gets old, you start to see cracks and stuff. It's always a good idea to get some new rubbers on.

After I did some survey on the Internet, I decided to go to RAM (Real American Motorcycle) in San Jose.

This is Bernard.  He is the owner of the shop, and he is also the master mechanic in the shop.  40 years of mechanic experience on motorcycles mainly on Harleys.  I am sure he can tighten things like a torque wrench.  An experienced mechanic is always the first sign of a great shop.

This is Mark.  He usually stays at the front desk, so you will most likely talk to him first when you need services.  He is also an experienced mechanic (and he runs a bar too).  Super friendly and easygoing dude.  Another good sign of a great shop.

Shop from the street:

They even have a dyne room.  Third good sign of a professional mechanic shop.

Garage looks super clean and everything is organized.  Fourth good sign of a good mechanic shop.

Front wheel off:

Rear wheel off:

New front tire:

New rear tire:

Cost: 

From DennisKirk.com:

Front tire: Front Commander II 130/90HB-16 Blackwall Tire $109.88

Rear tire: Rear Commander II 140/90HB-16 Blackwall Tire $137.88

16 in. x 2.25 in. Rim Strip $2.95 x 2

Inner Tube $22.88 x 2

Shop labor: 2 hours $171.03 including lube on the axels.  They even replaced the rear brake pads for me... for free (PS: I brought in the new brake pads).

Total: $470.45 (it's about enough to get my rear tire changed in a HD dealer)

Conclusion: 

1. people: super friendly and honest.  answer any question and no sugar coating and craps.

2. place: nice and clean in a convenient location.

3. equipments: very clean garage with great tools.

4. work quality: high quality as what people claimed on the Internet.  

5. convenience: did I mention they are open 7 days a week?

More details of the shop can be found at: http://www.yelp.com/biz/ram-products-real-american-motorcycle-repair-san-jose

Last but not least, supporting my local business just makes me feel gooood!!