So we had our final night and dinner and awards. We had one couple who got their 500,000 miles award. I have over 360K so I know how many miles that is and how much fuel that takes.
We had 37 years as the longest tenure of the club who was there to receive it.
We had lots of 100K and 200K miles and many five, ten and twenty years awards as well. The North Atlantic chapter won the traveling award for the most people and I think if the mid atlantic had one more coach, we could have won. We came in second place.
It was a great dinner and I love the people and friends, new and old who are there. It is nice to spend a few days and sit and talk with them about life, kids, grands, cameras and coaches.
Now some observations on the motorcade club. I think it is very interesting that I just came from fantasy tours a week ago for a rally there to the Motorcade rally here. It is like night and day. We have a very special group of people who are in the motorcade club and if we do not have it, we as owners will be worse for it. I think Foretravel is at a crossroads as a company and you could read that between the lines. I think the club is at a crossroads as well. They are going to have to change some of the policies allowing non Foretravel Owners to join in more things in order to help the company sell coaches as well as help the club. In the old days they used to sell 300 coaches and now they are selling double digits and I heard they have sold 36 IHs over its whole run not just this year. I know Lyle said last year they were at less then 20 coaches. The club does not have new blood coming in and we at the forum seem to be more vibrant then the club. We all like the 10 percent discount but the friendships you can form in person is very important. I met a number of forum members who were here and attending their first event. It is great to have them on the forum as well as in the club. I hope they had a great time and started making long lasting friendships. I think it is time for the Motorcade club to embrace those of us on the forum and become relevant to us as well as to the old members. The age of the people here at the GV is pretty old for an average and we will be losing a number of them as they hang up the keys. The upshot is that the board of directors has to figure out what they want to do. They have to change as the status quo or it is not going to thrive so, i think i would like to start a thread on what you would like to see from the motorcade club as Forum members and what would be valuable to you.
I heard that FT is going to poll the membership of the club to find out what kind of coaches they want them to build and if we should adjust membership rules. I guess it is finally dawning on the management of FT that the number of coaches they are building for others this year will surpass the number of coaches they will sell. They see the benefits in reduction of overhead and there has been a hue and cry for an entry level coach and a smaller one too. So watch for it.
That's great that MC Club might be interested in what Foreforums members think, but they really should join the forum and ask for themselves. They are a commercial business and should do their research as a commercial member, not through a regular forum member.
I do not think I posted it properly. I did not mean to say that I would post it for the club but was more interested in what benefits the club could offer our members. We get 10 percent discount on parts and service at the club but I wonder if we could see what benefit the forum members would like to see and see if we could get it for us. Kind of like the fuel discount was done for the Prevost group and we got to tag along with it to make it stronger. In this case there might be something that we could use or need that the synergies of the Motorcade Club and the Forum would make for a better experience owning our coaches.
I do feel that after being here for a few days and hearing the information that FT is at a major crossroads and that is important to all of us as owners.
It is funny how people perceive things. I got the impression that the Motorcader group did not want subgroups such as ForeForums showing a presence at their meetings. And, to the best of my knowledge, we accommodated them because we never had a group meeting before, during, or after any of the events at this Motorcader event. At least none that I was invited to attend.
Larry
Larry, you are right. They do not want to know about the forum it seems. There are some who were hostile to it in fact but we are a large owners block and for that reason alone, I would think that the club or corporate would want to cater to us in some way. We are very vibrant and growing while they are talking of declining membership. That is why I think that the club is at a crossroads and the idea that Lyle floated that he wanted to poll what kind of coaches that the owners want them to build. I would think they would want the forum members input and we all have a vested interest in seeing FT thrive.
John, you rock
Will post my observations latter.
Well said John.
Raymond
A house together is better than divided. Foretravel needs all owners not just Forum members to push its products. Lots of competition out there. All have new tech. I have been looking for a hide-a-way bed up front not a jack bed. Larger refrigerator and a larger shower with larger door for handicapp person plus tag. Not found in Foretravel line in a medium priced coach. DAN
FT (corporate) and FOT (service) have both been supportive and appreciative of what Foreforums is and does, and they've helped a couple of members out with coach information directly on the forum (look for member "Foretravel"), which we greatly appreciate. We haven't ever talked with Lyle, just Greg and Cory, but definitely welcome their "forum brain picking" to find out what folks are looking for in their next coach.
I wish we could better reassure those MC members who aren't currently fans of the forum that we aren't here to replace, compete with, or do anything else that might be perceived as negative towards the club. A number of the chapter rallies have been highlighted here and of course every "I just bought my first FT" post gets responded to with "call Beverly and get your Motorcade membership started".
What i want to make sure is when they poll the members of the MC club that we have a voice in there as well. If it are just 900 MC members and do not include the members here who are not members of the MC, then they are not getting a true result from owners. They are planning on polling to see what kind of coaches we want but also what price point. I think it may be a discussion in a way that is long overdue.
I agree, plus the forum includes people who are interested in a Foretravel as well, we're not just limited to existing Foretravel owners. That would be good info to have if you were trying to come up with a coach that meets the needs of the marketplace. It would help determine what it would take to entice someone into buying a new Foretravel at this point, not just what does someone want as their next FT (given I suspect a portion of the MC membership may be on their last coach). Of course there are some folks who would be buyers primarily looking at used coaches, but there need to be enough NEW coaches sold to provide inventory of used units in the future.
As a 10 year Foretravel owner and first timer at the Motorcade, I want to say "ditto" to the previous comments. We have paid our membership dues all these years because it just seemed wise to support the brand. Our only personal experience with the club was the Ladies Driving School last year and we had a wonderful time.
As for the discussions about the forum and the club, we wouldn't be Foretravel owners (now on our 4th coach) were it not for the old Yahoo group. After looking at a Grandvilla about a dozen years ago I searched the web looking for information. The more I read the Yahoo group the more I was convinced we should only look at Foretravel. Our kids just bought Imogene Fronk's 2003 U320 and are currently on their first long trip as new Foretravel owners. They have been reading the comments on the forum for a while now. To say there is competition between the Forum and the club IMHO is just silly. They need each other. The club is stronger because of the forum. Most of us first timers were there because of the forum, not the club communication.
As a side note, I got home minus an AC cover. I went online and ordered two new ones that I would have ordered from FOT if they had a web presence. It's so easy to click and order them from one of a dozen suppliers online and be done with it. The FOT parts page is a picture of the parts guys and a phone number. That doesn't work in 2014. I know my $200 purchase isn't enough for them to invest in that but if common parts like the covers were marketed via a web presence many of us would be more loyal to them for parts.
I just want to thank all the club members who welcomed us as newbies. We look forward to the next time we can get away with you good people.
This post is out of pure curiosity. How many ForeForum members purchased their Foretravel from Foretravel. How many ForeForum members have had their Foretravel serviced at Foretravel. How many ForeForum members are members of the Motorcader club. How many ForeForum members have attended a Motorcader event.
Is the answer to those questions a large percentage of ForeForum members or is it a very small percentage. There are over 2,000 ForeForum members. But how many are actually a customer of Foretravel.
The larger percentage that supports Foretravel, the more recognition ForeForums will receive.
Larry
Purchased at MOT (2 actually), have had remodel work done at FOT, am member of MC club and attended 1 Granvention
Purchased my first coach from FOT in Nac when they were just Foretravel. I purchased my second coach from a Yahoo forum member and the last one and current one from MOT so I have purchased from all three.
Purchased privately, MC member, attended 0 MC functions, have used FT service and will use their remodel shop.
First Foretravel was a private purchase, but found it on the Foreforums.
Had service on that coach at FOT couple of times. And have visited a couple as well to see friends.
Found the second Foretravel on a trip, it was sold to me, thru FOT, who handled it as a trade in on a newer coach. I had a buyer for my first one, and FOT worked the deal as another trade in, saving me tax on the difference. My buyer bought my old coach from FOT, as the timing worked out perfectly, (very lucky for me).
We are Motorcade members from day one.
Timing has kept us from yet attending a Motorcade event. We were still trying to work, motorcycle and RV, just too little time to do all. And the regional and Granvention have conflicted with a major fun fall club ride to NW AR. Solution was to sell the bike, and we almost got to go this year.
And Mike now has Michelle and Steve's old rock guard, that I salvaged and modified to fit the U225 Mike bought.
Purchased locally in CA, 11 years MC member, attended several Motorcades, Chapter Rallys & grandventions, have used FT service and their remodel shop
Bought ours from a private source (thank to Dave Cobb). We have used MOT for some work and FOT for remodel. Went to our first and only event at the 2014 Grandvention. Looking forward for more. MC member only a couple of months now.
Purchased locally in CA, 7 years MC member, attended a bunch of Motorcades, Chapter Rallys & grandventions, have used FT service and their remodel shop.
Bought our first one private, second one at Transwest, MC member from the start, have attended chapter rallys and now two grandventions and have had work done at FOT.
Bought my coach at FOT, have used FOT for remodel and service, attended several chapter rallies, Â three motorcades and two GrandVentions. Been a MC member for 8 years.
Bought our coach used through MOT during the 2004-era when FT was no longer taking consignments. Have been MC members since buying the coach. Have attended 2 Grandventions but no other MC events or chapter rallies (the former because they're not our travel style/cost, the latter because of timing/schedule conflicts). We have used FT/now FOT and a number of other shops including MOT, Xtreme, and some local ones depending on what needs to be done that we can't do ourselves, where we can get a timely appointment, and who is running the best pricing at the time.
I was a longtime FT wannabe from 1993 till 2007 when I finally was able purchase my coach,"Clyde", from a private seller in AZ. I have used MOT for a small punch list in '08, FT for some work and interior modification, a plus private engine shop.
I totally agree with the Johnson's quote I inserted above about FT parts department lack of a web presence, I think they hold on believing in the personal service concept but they should update to a commercial website for those who just know what they want to buy and those who need help can use the telephone for assistance and to ordering.
I agree with John S. that FT should listen to our foreforum ideas and I certainly would like to be a part/voice in that process, however, I am having trouble understanding how we can do that on an organized basis? I want the Mother Ship and Foretravel legacy to continue so much and these are some of the things swirling around in my head on how to we can help.
Please help me on this: I am listing some of my thoughts below on what I am thinking. Please let me know your thoughts or if I am off base here and it is not necessary.
1-Is there a way to create a forum questionnaire/survey or possibly multiple ones that contain questions on particular build features which can be checked off or preference rated and include write in areas for participants to list features wanted not identified. This should be created by the forum moderators possibly by offering multiple surveys of feature for particular coach areas; Chassis, number of slides, interior features, etc., then creating one final online questionnaire for all to answer and submit to FT.
I believe this would help in focusing all participants and give a coordinated preference from the forum to the company. Suggestions solicited
2-We submit all of the participants recommendations either anonymously or identify MC #'s, as a current FT owner non MC member and Wannabee. Suggestions solicited
3-Just tally up the suggestions and submit as a total noting responses by percentages. Suggestions solicited
Tony
Bought ours privately and then spent a crap load of money at FOT fixing it. At FOT have used the fiberglass shop (new half roof), paint (FBP), service (you name it) and have attended one MC event (Ladies Driving School). Became a MC member as soon as we found out about it. Have used several other shops for engine work.
see ya
ken
I bought my Foretravel from Foretravel. Have been a motorcade member since I purchased it. Have been to one Grandvention and at least two local chapter events. Have had service at Foretravel and had interior updated from David Flanagan at Foretravel. Have also bought parts from Foretravel, personally and through service locations when I was a long way off from Nacadoches.
Bought mine from a tip/find/link on Foreforums almost a year ago, (dealer in FL) joined MC club right away, spent a ton of cash fixing her up inside & out locally, with help from several very knowledgable (& wonderful) FT friends....have done 3 separate chapter rallies, hope to do a motorcade next year + the Grandvention (would have made it this year but been gone too long already!). Headed to FOT soon for the ladies' driving school & a good taste of Nac + FOT + MOT + whatever else gets in the way! Anxious to see where it all began, dream about a FT upgrade one of these days...right now it's "cheaper to keep her" as they say! :D
Tony,
This is key not just if FT were to ask the forum, but also as they are asking the existing owner base. A challenge is getting data representative of what would someone be serious about buying
new.
So... ideas on how to do that? Anyone good at market research?
We bought our first and only '89 from the PO who bought it as a "new" demo model from FT in Knoxville TN. I couldn't agree more with the Johnson's post on FT service. FT making such great coaches means they last. Why not have a user friendly web site and cater to us owners of older FT. If it was easy to log on and order stuff quickly and directly from FT I would make more improvements I'm sure. Being that we live in Michigan and still working full time we have never traveled to Texas but it is on the "to do list". We are hoping to attend the next GV in 2015 and want to meet up during the "Michigan Tour" at some point when that group tours our state. The DW and I really look forward to meeting other FT owners. Still looking for our first!
I also don't see the MC and Foreforums in competition with each other....I think it's a great complement to each other. As a newbie I see the MC club geared toward that new coach buyer and the Foreforums for the used buyers. As for us we look at the Foreforums as a MUST follow for any FT owner and the MC as nice to have option. Just my humble opinion.
Jeff
Didn't take an accurate count, but there were way more 90s coaches than 2000s!
There were a number of coaches 2006 and newer. As far as I have been able to to determine, only one of those newer coaches was a ForeForums member.
Also, of the 35 or so ih45's built, two were at the Grandvention. One was a 2012 on consignment for sale at FOT and the other was a 2015 model owned by a Motorcader member.
Well, need to make a statement for Foretravel of Tennessee, yes there was such a place, now an abandoned, weeded, scarred, trashed, hilltop on I 40 at exit 407. Bought my first three Foretravels there, a 94, U 240, a 95, U 240 and a 99, U 320. Bought my current 03, U 320 at MOT, a similar one in Tennessee had a faulty rear end. Hated to see that place closed.
I have had service at MOT, FOT, Foretravel of Florida, as well as Foretravel of California and Parliament and still do a lot of business with Tennessee RV. (never had service in Coeur d'Alene).
Personally think Foretravel would be well advised to, as others have suggested, embrace new communications and sales technologies. From parts and service sales, service scheduling, to building brand enthusiasm through social media including Foreforums, the ways and means to accomplish this are readily available.
I've used Foretravel service and parts for all service and vast majority of parts I've purchased, but private purchase of coach. Often wondered how Foretravel regards the older coaches...necessary evil, their major competition, service profit center, or a visible emissary of quality and brand loyalty. I've never called Foretravel for tech help on a problem I didn't expect to have fixed at Foretravel, as a long time business owner I've got issues with doing so. Would, however, be happy to pay a yearly fee for available tech help, kind of like Coach Net, for my older coach and if it were possible to schedule service, buy parts and communicate online I would be far more inclined to utilize these services more fully. I expect other purchasers would find this a major plus, add the Foreforums asset and you've got a powerful inducement to ownership.
As to motorcade attendance, this primarily is an option for retired folks, this skews the age demographic.
Some few years ago, while I was at Camp Foretravel for service, I had occasion to speak with a group of people who were very involved with the Motorcade Club. One lady had just been elected President and I wanted to offer my congratulations, as we were acquainted previously from our Mid-Atlantic Chapter. I mentioned how thrilled I was with the "new" Foreforum and the wonderful help and information I was getting ... and all the super people I was meeting. Icicles. I was INDIGNANTLY informed that "those Forum people do nothing but BASH Foretravel, and hurt the company". I shut up and left after putting out the information that I could not disagree more, and that the enmity may have been more prevalent on the "old" Forum, but that it simply was no longer in evidence and certainly not encouraged. FWIW ... I haven't had opportunity to speak with her again. There may still be Motorcade Club members with the same mindset.... but that attitude of "exclusivity" sort of turned me off of the Motorcade Club, to tell the truth. There is no need for an "Us or Them" mentality ... it's all good.
We bought our u300 form a private party in Montana. Have never been to MOT and do all my own work and service. I use the forums as a resource and have met a lot of very helpful and nice members. I called FT and got my MC # and after reading the rules and regs decided not to take part in the club. I was a member of the Eagles International when we owned our Eagle and we hosted a rally and attended other rally's. Most of the membership were Eagles but as long as you were a FMCA member in good standing you could come to a Eagle rally with a SOB and were welcome.
So my question after reading these post, Can we go to any chapter rally that is held not being a MC member ?
I think if it's advertised as a buddy rally you can. Otherwise, no. There is a long history, but Motorcade isn't an official FMCA chapter so it's not like in FMCA where if you're a member of FMCA you can often attend any chapter's events.
There was discussion a couple of years ago about trying to form a Foreforums FMCA chapter, but it ended with a woeful lack of people willing to be officers (as in only 1 or two out of the entire membership), and without committed, involved leadership there is no point in forming an FMCA chapter.
Thanks Michelle for the heads up. That is disapointing When I looked in the FMCA chapter section it shows the Foretravel International and I wondered if that was Chapter that we could join. Guess not.
You may not attend a Motorcade rally as a "Friend" in a Foretravel motorhome. Attend in your SOB motorhome, join the club, or stay in a member's coach.
From the MC rules: ' "Friends" who attend must be invited by a Club member in standing (see Article V), must attend in a non-Foretravel motorhome, and be in compliance with all Club policies. '
I've not seen any "MC police" at any Foretravel events. However, compliance with the spirit of the rules is in order. I have enjoyed the Motorcade events. I've not felt tension between Motorcade and Foreforums. (I am sometimes considered "insensitive" to subtle issues, a.k.a. "clueless." ;) ) I consider support of the brand, FOT, and MC to be of value to me. I consider the dues to be insignificant as a part of the cost of ownership. I generally get more in discounts than I pay for membership.
Here's Barry's post with links to the FMCA chapter discussions Foreforum rally discussion (split from 2015 Grandvention) (http://www.foreforums.com/index.php?topic=19381.msg136341#msg136341)
I bought my coach used locally.
I can't see any possibility that I would ever drive all the way to Texas for repairs.
I have purchased a few small parts from Foretravel. I find the phone system almost unbearable tp deal with.
I do all my own remodeling (extensive) and mechanical work. If I need engine or trans work I will probably go to Cummins or Alison direct or search out local talent.
I can see that in the future I may not want to tackle some of the work I have done. I may sell my sticks and bricks and relocate when I retire in a few years. I that case I would consider purchasing a newer model and giving my current Coach to my Son.
I would welcome more members here that own NEWER Foretravels. There input about the newer models would be very interesting to read and learn. The good and the bad.
I was a MC member for the 1 year free membership. I didn't see anything that made me want to continue as a member.
I find this Forum to be all I need. GREAT advice, friendly people, NO SNOBS, no time for that!
We bought our FT off the classified on the forum in Jan 2013.
We are MC members and feel that the cost is worth it.
Have used FOT for both parts and service and will use them in the future. Have not used MOT or Extreme but will probably use Extreme in the future.
Could not afford a new FT and the newer designs are more for luxury travel than RVing. We tend to go to smaller, remote campgrounds and spend time in the great outdoors.
Have most engine work done at Cummins and body/interior work (that I don't do myself) at FOT.
Attended Ladies Driving School last year and plan on attending the Grandvention next year. We're experienced and independent RV'ers. Group travel is not our style but did visit with the Alaska Motorcade folks this summer in Whitehorse.
Foreforums is one of the best things about owning a FT.
Rich
We purchased our coach a year ago from a lovely CA couple who upgraded to a newer coach. They are very active in the Motorcade Club and recommended it highly. We joined and have attended one rally where we were warmly welcomed. We've not yet had service done at FOT -- they were our 1st choice to replace our fuel lines but they were booked until Jan 20th when we called in Sept. We are looking forward to the upcoming Ladies Driving School, and to spending those days at Camp Foretravel. My sincere hope is that FOT will continue to appreciate the customer feedback that ForeForums provides, and to see that we members are among the brand's most active ambassadors.
If FOT is booked to Jan call MOT and see if they can fix your fuel lines. That is silly they are booked out that far. There is no real excuse for it. I can understand a few weeks but a few months is not acceptable.
John, we did have the fuel lines replaced last week at MOT. We were afraid to wait until Jan. Thanks.
Anne and I bought our "perfect" coach privately in Georgia, but had a 30 item punch list by the time we got home. Our first FT service visit cost $5,600 and we haven't looked back. Flanagan's group has done extensive interior mods over time, while Xtreme has done our exterior mods. Most of our parts and service have been through FT. Just joined the MC immediately(we were long term Airstreamers and were Wally Byam Club members for many years) and have been to a number of Grandventions, chapter rallies and MC events over seven years-whenever they fit into our full-timing schedule.
If FOT is booked to Jan call MOT and see if they can fix your fuel lines. That is silly they are booked out that far. There is no real excuse for it. I can understand a few weeks but a few months is not acceptable.
THis morning Lyle Reed was talking and was shocked when people were complaining that the wait for service was 6 weeks when they called. So he asked how many had been told that and lots of hands went up. He said he would look into it. It is not a surprise to any of us who have been there for service that their times are stretching out and they are not full up in the bays and it loos like they have less techs in the service department too.
Some of the discussion on our forum about service times. We were also told 3 months. Hopefully, Lyle were take some action.
I talked with Lyle today and he said he started looking into wait times at service when he got back to Nac last weds from the GV.
Thanks for update, John
Bought ours at MOT, have had work done both at FT and MOT. We've been MC member for 10 years and have attended one MC event (Ladies Driving School). Still working so it's tough to attend most of the events.
Jimmy
1998 U295 36'
Appears to this feller, Having been there, have had a steering gear leak repaired, yes I was scheduled for all new FSD shocks and was worked in, a very fine job was done and very acceptable price.
Also been there with no appointment, got the same 6 week story, and from Dave F, 2-3 months at best, I am still running a business so my free time is limited.
IF FOT was active in keeping up with reasonable service appointments, acting like they were appreciating the business, there would be much less need / demand for MOT and Xtreme at the table, but they seem to be doing very well, any wonder why ?
JDAO
I know a bit about running service operations and Foretravel needs to get it's act a little tighter. A good shop runs it's major service and minor item bookings differently. It's never a good idea to turn away smaller things by booking everything serially. Who want's to wait for a one day job for three months while they remodel coaches? That's why MOT does so well. If your demand goes up then expand your workforce and capacity. If you are having trouble selling new then you should do two things urgently. First determine why you can't sell your coaches. Secondly expand the service dept. if you can. During the turn-downs in the trucking industry service kept many dealers afloat.
The new way of doing business is no longer make 'em, put 'em on the lot and get Cashflash Bob to sell 'em. Worked well in the past. Now selling high end is a art form. You have to cultivate the customer. Listen and understand his needs. Work with him on realizing them and above all fulfill them with quality, service and support for the long run. Make him your friend, which is what Bob understands.
The high end real estate industry around here got it a while ago. Good agents make money by fitting the house to the customer not selling what they have - hence buyers agent. We have a friend who makes a lot more money as one than just as a realtor selling what she has.
How many times do you read comments that the newer coaches "look like a tart's boudoir inside"? See "Understand his needs above"!
Use all avenues from social media to this forum. It supports Foretravel far more that they seem to realize. How many people here would have purchased one if it was not for it's existence? A strong resale market sells new coaches.
It is nice to see that Foretravel is making a simpler coach but one wonders if it's Foretravel quality.
Just some random thoughts. Maybe not as coherent as I would like.
Keith
Well put, Keith.
These statistics are not an accurate sample of ForeForums members. But, this thread has had 52 posts and 579 reads. Of the members that answered the thread question of who purchased at FOT, had service at FOT, and have been to a Motorcader event: 8 purchased their Foretravel from FOT, 23 members have had service at FOT, 23 members have been on one or more Motorcader events, and 41 are Motorcader members.
"How many people here would have purchased one if it was not for it's existence?" I'm one of those. Back when we were beginning the research process we decided that we would consider only brands that had active owners' forums. We weren't interested in brands whose owners just used their cell phones to call for help and their credit cards to pay for someone else taking care of problems. We wanted a brand whose owners actually got their own hands dirty fixing and upgrading their own coaches. We found what we were looking for with a Foretravel.
I'll keep the count going. We bought our U280 through a private sale from a long time MC'er. We have been MC members since then and, have attended a number of chapter rallies but not a GV. We've purchased parts and used FOT for service and tech support on the road.
This forum is a "must have" for me.
Hi All,
We bought our coach from an online add eleven years ago. Searched for two years, then negotiated with owner for about a year. Previous owner stopped in our area heading to Florida. We were able to check it out.
We have serviced at FOT, old Foretravel Tennessee, and old Foretravel Florida. Were members of the club for years. No longer members.
Never have attended a club event. Between working and health issues no time. Sure hope to do an event one day. Have met a many owners over the years. All have been great people.
I couldn't do it without this forum, and it's members. Thanks again, Steve and Michelle!
Raymond
Purchased our coach privately. MC member from the start. Support but have not been on a motorcade for various reasons thus far. (3 years). Will do so next year. Not sure if that is our idea for using our coach. Life is hectic and like a lot of folks, we are pulled in many directions with limited chances.
Have not been to the factory but have purchased a lot of parts. Distance is the main obstacle for service visits.
Enjoy the forum and it's members the best.
David
We purchased our Foretravel from FOT.
Motorcade members -no events attended
Had remodeling work done by Dave Flanagan--Excellent Job!!
Service work done by FOT
Bought parts from FOT while in Nac.
Haven't bought or used MOT or Extreme ---yet
When looking for our motorhome the choice came down to Foretravel or Wanderlodge.
Both have very active member groups to help/answer questions-which I appreciate.
The deciding factor for us was the factory support of Foretravel if/when needed.
This Forum in my opinion is a major plus for Foretravel and I hope FOT realizes that.
We purchased our coach from FOT in May of 2013. Have purchased parts, had service work performed and remodel work done. Have been very satisfied with sales, scheduling and service. So far have not encountered scheduling more than 4 weeks out.
You are right about how I went about selling Foretravels. It's an art not a science. Texas had little "feel" for the art.
We talked among ourselves after every customer left the lot. What did I say wrong?What did the salesman say wrong? What went well?
Surely was not the beautiful modern motorhome in the late 80's.
Painted the entire lot with green deck epoxy paint and added glued down green astro turf sculpted to match the coaches lengths.
Added potted plants on rollers next to the coaches. Added solar panels to every coach as they would run down quickly otherwise.
Fixed every mechanical issue prior to displaying. Filled all tanks for better rides.
Scaled every coach and posted the weight slips in the coach to prove the lighter weight.
Video taped rides up the passes in the area to show the better power to weight ratios.
Used the Foretravel produced 12 minute video showing cm's grand dads wagon picture that he used to build.
Dressed to match the customer. Tie loose or open. Sleeves rolled up or fastened.
Identify customers personality type and use the correct words to match them.
Put a camera on a pole to view the parking area and painted the spaces too small. Helped identify the personality if after exiting the car they would get back in to reposition the car better in the space.
Moved my customers chairs back from my desk and would turn around my pitch book and offer to share info with the couple. The one who moved their chair up closest was in charge.
Cost me $1,100 per customer to get them on the lot. Could not afford to miss any deals.
Walk them through service.
Cm mentioned allowing a lot of demo rides so I did.
Fully optionized every coach versus show stripped models.
Custom order non sold coaches tailored to a possible customers wants.
Custom build 50-70% of the coaches. Counter depths. Exact drawer layouts. Everything.
"Built especially for you" worked well.
Made friends with the other stores guys. Send them back their shopping customers nicely.
Never answer the phones on the first ring. Not busy if you do.
Mention busy and ask for a call back number.
Do walk arounds together and go over the presentations. Product knowledge.
Finally sold 59 new in 1988. 41 used. Factory sold less.
Profits way higher. Store stopped losing money at $500k a year.
Cm had the money then to build the unihome he later told me and shook my hand.
Miss my old friends like the wells, and Cleo Dunlap and the johns and many others.
Spent $
Purchased ours at Lazy Days Florida in May 2010. Have had service at FOT but not MOT yet. Have used FOT for parts when necessary. Motorcade club since purchased. Went to one fmca pre-rally in Brooksville. We felt a little out of place since we are so young compared to the others. Still had a great time. Have not attended any more due to the cost and type of functions were not appealing. I would like a club more focused on the coaches. Kind of like a car club. Used to be a member of the Mercedes Benz club of America but it turned into more of a dinner club instead of a car club. My thoughts anyways.
Mark
A big advantage for customers in the old days were the motorcades with a service vehicle along to help.
Borrowed a 1979 35' ftx from our lot and was in Oregon traveling north and the alternator died on the dodge chassis. Hmmmm.
Looked up and saw a Foretravel sign on a tree and an arrow. Followed it to a rally.
Service guys had a alternator on the trailer and installed it then.
Hard for the customers to wander off to other brands if you took care of them.
Hence the beaver ambassadors, country coach club and the monaco club.
They served drinks. Foretravel would not as the church of the Nazarene was against it.
Purchased our 2007 Nimbus from MOT in May. This followed an attempt to purchase a 38 footer from FOT. Deal fell through due to seller's illness--no one's fault.
Have had a lot of service done at MOT. Planning on remods through them in near future. Those folks are fantastic. Have not had any work done at FOT.
Joined MC right away. Have attended no events. Missed out on our first Grandvention due to scheduling. Will next be looking for local chapter rallys, events.
Have not noticed any friction between MC and ForeForum. If so, I am apt to address such short sightedness aggressively with MC. Someone would have to explain to me why you would antagonize, versus mine, such and ideal source of critical information. Can't think of another company that has such an informed, experienced, and motivated group of customers (both potential and current) available for reference.
OK, rant is over. Cut short, but over.
Everyone else is selling pretty coaches cheaper.
"There all the same" was many uneducated customers opinions about coaches design and build quality.
Floorplans, fabrics and paint sells well to the newby's
Love, love, love MOT for everything, but Flanigan will get my $$$$ (FOT) at remodeling time
Wow Bob, not only were your sales methods an art form, they were a science & practically a spiritual experience! Wish I'd bought my coach from you. :D
As for cosmetics, that was all very appealing back in the beginning but quality & mechanics are the factors most appealing after all the paper work is done. I was boggled by all that in SOB's but thankfully sobered up & decided mechanical aspects were much more important. I still think the late 90's coaches are the most beautiful & classic around, I just wish FOT or MOT or someone would offer women a way to learn more about the inner workings of these fabulous critters.
Miz Dani - As a side note - When we bought our coach I knew nothing about the mechanics or systems. The forum and it's members have taught me what I know. I have a long way to go yet. But the overwhelmed feeling has mostly passed. The search button is your friend as well as Beamalarm - when you have a few minutes, open and pick a topic - read and ask questions. That's what I do. ;D
Miz,
There are a ton of how-to videos on YouTube. Just go there and search for the item i.e. RV water pump.
Keith
"Wow Bob, not only were your sales methods an art form, they were a science & practically a spiritual experience! "
I'll say, FlashBob!! You are a salesman, for sure ... and one that respected the customer and his ability to see the value in the product. FOT could hire you to teach their guys the art ... and it IS an art!!
Scott, all good ideas I've taken advantage of, tho' most of my school housin' comes informally sitting at the foot of (& picking the brain of) my favorite FT guru....he's got a little "chip" buried somewhere in the back of his head for just about anything & everything! Have learned a ton already, was just pondering one day perhaps a class room type setting starting with the basics. Of course these coaches are such unique creatures, it'd have to be specific to FT. Maybe some day FOT will come up with a technical crash course for women? Wonder how many women would be interested? I sure would.
We have the Grandvention and had two technical talks. One with Jack Bradshaw and one with James Triana. It is open to women and they cover a range of things and each year it is a bit different.
Thank you. Tried the training thing and I was laughed at. They used to look over every managers shoulder and micromanage every decision.
Floyd Wilcox got paid on profits and carol white got paid on units. I gave away a few gas coaches to help carol out and the profits made Floyd smile. They left me alone after a few months. Until I stepped on political toes.
I was stupid enough to give the salesman most of the credit for the sales. I made more money than all of them but cm fore. Hurt their east Texas feelings.
A year later after I was gone carol came up to me at a FMCA rally and shook my hand and said he had made a mistake. Like Jesus coming down off the cross.
"Why didn't you tell me(us) that you personally sold 50% of the coaches?"
Not my style. Build up your salesman who were my friends also.
First thing out of my mouth when I was let go was "this will cost Foretravel a lot of money"
Real company guy. I knew I could go to the next lot in Traveland and do perfectly well but Foretravel would go right back to their old results. Which they did.
First year I spent $75k of Foretravel's money which cost me personally $10k fixing every old coaches never fixed correctly coaches sold by my store.
Repainted orange skirts.....
Every single customer bought a new coach in the next three years. All had the money just wanted the company to keep their word.
Triana knows this stuff maybe. So does grimes.
Old partners in crime as it were.
We had to plot behind some backs to sell more coaches.
Especially McKensie and the club with the texas aggie brown jackets. Ugly.
So we made up our own Foretravel club with white Martin jackets with an embroidered GVF logo on the chest for those who bought from California.
Talk about upset.
Results paid the bills and basically warren had to go along finally and change the club jackets and we put the california crest club on the back burner.
I think I still have the old Foretravel Orange jackets with the white stripe down the front and a couple of our white ones in a box somewhere.
Days of long ago. 1986-1989.
Had 115 coaches at a dodger show parking lot dry camp show rally.
I beat up Triana in a nice way about the rolocks at the unihome intro in 1987. Reminded him about that this year. He remembered just like I thought he would.
I said you would add doublers someday and use huck fasteners. Which they did.
He was correct as the rolocks work great. Except for the rust jacking.....
Fun to tell the 25 year old stories...
Open, but the "women's" craft session (bring your Bedazzler and your glue gun, gals ::) ) is held opposite JT's; as if to be a subliminal suggestion that the "womenfolk" should not worry their pretty little heads about technical things ;) I jest, but that's usually how it works out.
I still think there should be a men's crafts and a women's technical session at a future Grandvention :)
Michelle, amen to that! Last rally I went to, I was the only female to show up for tech talk....really didn't fancy sitting around the table with all the other ladies' husbands all afternoon, so decided if no more showed up after a few minutes, I'd go have a nap...(nap was lovely, thank you.)
I never delivered a coach without teaching the girls how to drive it safely. Too dangerous with only an older guy around.
They did hold a session with Bobbi Bradshaw who went over a lot of things about the running of the coach. Like how to tell the amps you are plugged into and the AC draws and most of the house systems. That was during Jacks seminar and we had a number of women in James Triana seminar and have had more each year.
+1 ^.^d
At the five MC rallies I have attended, there seemed to be a lot of entrenched attitudes about the separate roles and interests of men and women. I think some "boundary crossing" may be in order, if done with appropriate confidence, style, taste, and discretion. Marilyn and I both participated in parts of the men's and women's "special sessions" at one rally. We have been invited to participate in rallies since then. :D
Just bought our first Foretravel at MOT, joined Motorcade Club last week. So no MC events yet.
Bama Fan, these are the nicest people you will ever meet. Rhonda and I just went to our first Grandvention. I told Beverly that if our churches were as welcoming to new people as this Grandvention the churches would all be full.
Of course it's nice being new in an organization and not involved in the politics of it.
Did you buy the 42' at MOT? Our kids were looking at that one as well.
We purchased our coach from PPL, have purchased many parts from FOT, would like to have used their service department but too far to travel so have done most myself. Have been on one Motorcade event and had a great time. Would like to do more, but still working.
John, I am returning to your start of this thread. From that, I offer
We, the owners and buyers, are the customers. We are customers of FOT, MOT, Xtreme, Foreforums, Motorcade, other dealers and shops. As customers, it is beneficial when there is peace and cooperation and happiness among these. We need affordable quality coaches. Without that, our small group could dwindle and at some point become not so revelant, competitor coaches would take over. As you or someone noted, an aging population and new coach costs going higher and higher could get us to too small a population to be what we enjoy now.
In part we manage through this by really enjoying the older or vinatage coaches. Remodeling helps sustain our customer and services relationship, provides critical businesses. We may not either afford or want to spend in the Real, Newell, IH45 range.
So, if Foretravel does a survey, if it were me, I would put it out via Motorcade and foreforums, even to the point of those two helping them....and perhaps some others...design the survey.
Just for me and Jackie, we would like a new coach which I think could be much below the IH or Realm price, much below. Build it this way....no aqua hot, a slide but not with the bladder, air leveling, keep outside air bags, not sure if retarder so much better than jake brakes so another area to question cost, keep the chassis, structural integrity of our 2001, maybe raise the ceiling a couple of inches. I do not think that describes a coach built by SOB already?
With engineering costs lower on a per unit basis versus the present production, and produce maybe only one, maybe max of two, models, would we get that FT coach at say $450k?
Just thinking, as John began, how to benefit us as customers and those that provide services and coaches that we all value, highly. Keep it going. Keep that crucial mass by good relationships, affordable new coaches.
Mike
In 2009 a Foretravel Nimbus 36' with two slides had a MSRP of $470,000. That coach had a retarder, Hydronic heating, and air bladders in the slides. Maybe without those things, and considering inflation costs for six years, $500,000 may be feasible for a 36' coach. But at that price, it would not have a lot of the features that the 295 and 320 models have had in the past.
Larry, please do not think I am arguing for or against the price, value, quality, etc. just trying to explore an idea of a revised 295. What could be options for manufacturing?
But I checked prices of some new SOBs after you posted, just curious. If all say it cannot be done, okay. Maybe other options besides phenix and IH45. I just playing around with what was said at the beginning of the thread....if FOT really is asking, what would I want?
I think if asked, with our budget, for a new, I hoped a refreshed and revised 295 might be an option, guess not from what I hearing here.
Been meaning to get my two cents in here, just haven't had the time. Been too busy on the post GV Oklahoma MC event.
My coach came from a dealer in California in 2009. I get service at FT, Xtreme, or Bernd depending on schedule and what I need done.
Here are some of my thoughts on the motorcades. I'm throwing this in because I think there are some misperceptions out there as well as new folks that just don't know much about them.
Had a Lazy Daze for some years, never joined the owners club because group gatherings weren't my thing. Did a couple rallies and a GV after getting the FT, but not much else. Finally went on a 3-week motorcade in 2012 at the urging of a friend (Highway 93) and was astonished at how much I enjoyed it. Went on another in 2013 (Appalachian Trial) and did the Alaska MC this year.
They have all been great events. The tour directors spend a lot of time scouting and setting up the itinerary. They find things for us to do that I never knew existed and get us into places that would not normally be available to individuals. Where I thought it would be burdensome and annoying to have so many other people around, I've found it has added a lot of enjoyment to share the adventures with new friends. I've encountered no snobs, just a bunch of really nice people who made me feel very welcome. The length, usually around 3-4 weeks, gives enough time to see and do a lot and really get to know the other folks. Alaska, at 7 weeks, is really special. The scenery is so awesome and after 50 days of shared adventures many of the people that you do that trip with become lifelong friends.
I've heard some comments that they are too regimented but I've not found that to be true. They are very well run and you can participate in activities or not, as you choose. It's a great way to get introduced to an area with all the logistics taken care of. You can always go back later and spend more time in your favorite places after you know what's there.
I'm sure motorcades are not for everyone, especially if you are still working. But I would encourage anyone who has never been on a club motorcade to give it a try. I'm really glad I did that first one and found out what it was all about. I'm signed up for more next year and am looking forward to seeing lots of places I've never been, and reconnecting with the many friends I've made on past motorcades. I have a lot of other things I want to see and do in the world (e.g. I love bicycle tours), but the motorcades will keep me traveling around the country in my Foretravel much longer than I originally thought I would.
Mike, I did not think that you were arguing. My post may have been ill worded. I was actually agreeing that a $500,000 may be feasible.
The $500,000 coach came up as a question to Mr. Reed at the Oklahoma Grandvention. He said that if enough customers were interested in such a coach, and were ready to commit to a purchase, they would consider the planning and investigation it would take to get it done. But, they would have to be preordered. That is my take on what he said. Maybe other Fofums in attendance at the Grandvention can expand on what I have said.
Larry
More importantly regarding the preorders, was the design and molds that would have to be constructed to make the coach. At least that was my take on what he said.
Trent
Lyle said they would need about five firm orders for a smaller coach to do the engineering and molds. Smaller engine and transmission package and less slides. I think that would be a winner personally.
Bought my only GV (91 U280) from a local consignment lot.
Never joined MC.
Had roof repaired & coated at FT.
I don't know if I'm a hermit or a curmudgeon.
Bought parts from PPL mostly and did the work myself.
I get so irritated when I hear management say things like that. If the customers will come to me I will sell them something. It's like saying to a Fireplace,"If you give me heat I will give you wood". That is not how America's markets work. The manufacturer needs to do the research on what the market wants and then make the investment to give the prospects what they want. I love what Foretravel has historically represented and the caring personality of their service staff but if they are to flourish they need to start marketing and improve their sales approach. I have 45 years experience in sales and marketing management. I'm sure there are many other Foretravel owners as or more experienced in different disciplines of upper management than me. What a resource for the management of Foretravel of Texas. Wake up guys. We can and would be happy to help keep Foretravel successful.
Kent, I agree with you but I was just repeating the message that was said at the GV. You think they would be all over this idea. There has to be more people who will buy a smaller unit then the IH right now.
Ditto what Kent said :)
Larry, sorry late replying.
It would be really difficult to give up our 2001. Folks that led me to it did us one great derived, thanks again Forum and friends.
I am probably dreaming but I would be a serious looker at what I suggested but by the time they get around to,it may just be too long for us. And as Kent said, that a strange way to market, but even if they wanted a commitment before building, I would think on it.
As an aside, I looked at web for Fleetwoods and Tiffin and prices on new were in the $250k range, and these very nice appearing coaches. I know some major differences, but thought that for another large number of coach bucks FOT could build what I would like, want. Probably too comple. For my post I am trying to keep brief.
Thanks Larry and Kent and John for thoughts,
Mike