From Marlin to Madabout

[Ex-Biker]

Below is an email sent to John from Marlin basically in answer to the question of how the forum was going:

Hi John

I have to say I was very sceptical about it when I was first approached and when the GTM crowd put some info on there this was quite damaging I stopped having a link and recommending it. Since then I have found that we are lucky to have a wonderful lot of customers who do stick up for us if need arise.

I have also found that they chat to each other by email & phone a lot and have been extremely helpful to new lookers and new builders a like. I have a link from my site and do recommended would be buyers to write to ask the opinions of the customers. You are always at risk as you can't keep every one happy but overall I would say it has worked extremely well.

I am very grateful to Mark that he bothered to set it up in the first place and the only thing to bear in mind is exactly that. You really do need a person to 'man' the site. I very rarely look at the site as I do not want to interfere. However I do know that if there is a problem that they can not sort out between them one of the guys will email us for an answer and then put up on site.

Yes I am now happy to recommended to other manufacturers.

Kind Regards

Terry

[tomboysexi]

John,

Following on from Terrys comments I can understand any manufacturer having reservations about a forum such as this.

It is the ideal format for just listing complaints and basicly moaning about anything or anyone.

You have been fortunate that a 'certain type' of person appears to buy the 5EXi, I know I have the support of many people up and down the country and we do try to help each other with tips and pointers.

I feel I am part of a very unique club and consider many of the Forum members to be close friends.

Now my project is nearing completion it's refreshing to see new posts from those awaiting collection of their chassis, I recall the anticipation really gets hold of you.

These new members will be able to go back through this forum and see what possible pitfalls lay ahead and hopefully prepare for a smooth build.

We all chose the 5EXi as it looks outstanding and from all reports dives as well as it looks.

We have all spoken with Mark and Terry at one time or another and the enthusiasm shown towards us builders is very strong, they do want us all to realise our own particular dream machines.

With regard to Madabout. John you have done and continue to do an excellent Job. I hope you are able to promote yourself with many different manufacturers. From reading the letters pages in the magazines other builders could do with some mutual support.

Regards to you John and to all other builders.

Trev