What's Up With Fikse?

[ItDoRun]

I know there are several dealers on this site, so I wanted to post this to see if anyone had any first hand knowledge of what is going on with Fikse right now. I ordered my wheels 8 weeks ago today. For the last 4 weeks, no one at their facility will return phone calls or emails. I had originally been dealing with Will Anthis on wheel fitment before actually purchasing my wheels through one of the Fikse dealers. Will's name is not even on the phone directory anymore.

Three weeks into the order (which we were told 4-5 weeks for delivery), I called Will to get an estimated ship date so that I could get my builder lined up to mock the wheels and tires and measure for the rear end. Will told me that it was "too soon" to give an estimated ship date. I said "No problem". He told me to call the following week and that's the last I've heard from him or anyone at Fikse.

It's not the 8 weeks that's starting to get to me. It's the fact that they won't return messages or emails. Several people are telling me to hang in there, but I'm really starting to feel uncomfortable and frustrated about this. I even checked on a plane ticket from Louisiana to Washington last night!!!

I could go on and on venting here, but I'll just leave it at what I wrote above. If there's any Fikse dealers out there who could shed some light on this, please do. I really just want to know if I've been taken to the cleaners here if they're truly out of business.

Thanks

[Speedster]

It took 13 weeks for one of the orders I had placed with Budnik before, so Fiske is not completely out there...

[camcojb]

I think you should be dealing with the dealer that you ordered them through. That's what they get paid for, and they should be able to contact Fikse for you . They are still in business.

Jody

[Vegas69]

Agreed....8 weeks isn't that out of line for a custom set of wheels. Call your dealer and have them update you. While I don't think it's great business practice to ignore a customer that is buying your product directly or indirectly, that seems to be what's happening.

[awr68]

The problem is that his dealer is being ignored as well....

[Steve68]

It took me almost 5 months......... seriously!

[elitecustombody]

I'd look into CCW or HRE wheels, last time I got a set from HRE was less than a month on custom 20x13,20x11 540R's.

5 months is rediculous, it takes couple of months to get custom built Work,Volk or Veilside,wheels from Japan

[camaro2nv]

It just depends on the company. My last set was five weeks. But Ive had other brands take three months. When its spring I can understand the wait. But with it being fall and with the economy I couldnt tell ya. Good luck.

[ItDoRun]

The problem is that his dealer is being ignored as well....

Yep. That's the main problem.

[GregWeld]

I'm not saying this is the problem -- but just adding some "business" issues that I've run into in my life...

When I was the Brown Jordan Rep -- first guy I cut off was a big dealer - that was ALWAYS on "Credit hold"... he'd blame BJ for the long shipping times - and tell his customer what morons we were.... Once I got confirmation that this was happening - he wasn't on credit hold any more - he just wasn't a dealer! End of story right there...

So if the dealer is having 'a problem' - and he put the order into the factory - the factory might not 'see you' as being a customer and can't figure out why you're calling them. NOW -- I'd call you back and see what's up -- but that's me.

[lil427z]

it took about 12 weeks to get mine.
rick k:lateral:

[Flash68]

Unfortunately 8 weeks is not even insanely long....

It's the mismanagement of communication and poor handling of setting expectations and following up that sucks. :(

[ItDoRun]

Yep. We're gonna hang in there and let it run it's course for a little while longer. While I would have loved to have them under the car with my rear suspension in by now, I completely understand the that things take longer than originally quoted sometimes. It's just a communication issue right now between Fikse and their dealers.

I even called DSE today to see if they're having the same problem. They've been out of contact with Fikse for 2-3 weeks now. Same story. No return calls, emails, or even faxes.

[Stuart Adams]

Yep. We're gonna hang in there and let it run it's course for a little while longer. While I would have loved to have them under the car with my rear suspension in by now, I completely understand the that things take longer than originally quoted sometimes. It's just a communication issue right now between Fikse and their dealers.

I even called DSE today to see if they're having the same problem. They've been out of contact with Fikse for 2-3 weeks now. Same story. No return calls, emails, or even faxes.

I hope they are ok, I love their stuff. It doesn't sound good. Even if all is well, poor communication and service is a death sentence.

[GregWeld]

Maybe I'll swing down there tomorrow and do a "look see"... I'll report my findings here tomorrow.

[ItDoRun]

I hope they are ok, I love their stuff. It doesn't sound good. Even if all is well, poor communication and service is a death sentence.

What bothers me the most is if I get the wheels and there's problem with them. With the lack of communication from them right now, that could be a disaster.

[ItDoRun]

Maybe I'll swing down there tomorrow and do a "look see"... I'll report my findings here tomorrow.

Awesome. :thumbsup:

[chr2002ca]

I completely understand your frustration. It took 13 weeks for me to get my wheels, and it wasn't the delay that bothered me, it was the lack of returned calls. I understand that things can happen with suppliers and employees, etc, etc, that can cause delays, but there is just no good excuse for not taking 2 minutes to return a phone call and provide an update, no matter what the update actually is. A lot of the people that own and work for these vendors are friendly and great people and the type of people we'd all love to hang out with and be friends with, but it's just a simple business mistake not to keep your customers updated, especially when you've gone past your original estimated shipping date by several weeks. Maybe they don't call and give you an update because they have bad news or no news and simply don't want to relay that information, so they feel it's not a good idea or not necessary to call. However, any sort of call is the whole point.

Fikse makes great wheels so I hope things are going okay for them and I hope everything works out for you in the end.

[Ummgawa]

Wow. Look how quickly things can go south when there is a lack of communication. Hello, FIKSE!! Can you hear us?

My Fikse's too almost 10 weeks to get delivered and thats when things were good.

[ironworks]

I have been a Fikse Dealer for a few years now. I have not sold a set in over a year. Anthony Rose PM'ed me last week to ask the same question, I'm not sure if these cases are the same. I pretty much stopped selling Fikse wheels due to the fact of being lied to and being under cut by the them as a dealer. I know of 3 instances in trying to push their wheels where I was drastically under cut by Fikse, not another dealer, the manufacturer. They told me I was wrong. They also would not drop ship, so the wheels had to be shipped to me and then again to the customer. That is waste of money, charge me a dang drop ship fee. Then I talked to a Kyle at DSE and he said that Fikse would drop ship for him. Will then told me again nobody gets anything dropped shipped , but I order 3 sets he would drop ship them. These issues were only discussed after weeks of me trying to get a hold of some one and time after time I would leave a message that never got returned. And I'm a dealer.

When you get to the point you under cut your dealers, to make a sale, things must be tight. I hope they are not gone, they have an awesome product. I just won't sell it anymore, there are too many nice wheels out there to have to deal with this drama.

[Bowtieracing]

I hope its not same with forgeline..:_paranoid Frank said something between 4-6 weeks...

[ItDoRun]

Well, I'm at least a little relieved over the shipping lead times. It sounds as if 10-12 weeks is pretty much the norm and I haven't reached that mark yet, so I'll continue to wait patiently. As far as if the communication problem goes, I hope it gets better in the future for Fikse's sake. I've never seen their wheels in person but have heard nothing but superb remarks about them.

[Steve1968LS2]

I have been a Fikse Dealer for a few years now. I have not sold a set in over a year. Anthony Rose PM'ed me last week to ask the same question, I'm not sure if these cases are the same. I pretty much stopped selling Fikse wheels due to the fact of being lied to and being under cut by the them as a dealer. I know of 3 instances in trying to push their wheels where I was drastically under cut by Fikse, not another dealer, the manufacturer. They told me I was wrong. They also would not drop ship, so the wheels had to be shipped to me and then again to the customer. That is waste of money, charge me a dang drop ship fee. Then I talked to a Kyle at DSE and he said that Fikse would drop ship for him. Will then told me again nobody gets anything dropped shipped , but I order 3 sets he would drop ship them. These issues were only discussed after weeks of me trying to get a hold of some one and time after time I would leave a message that never got returned. And I'm a dealer.

When you get to the point you under cut your dealers, to make a sale, things must be tight. I hope they are not gone, they have an awesome product. I just won't sell it anymore, there are too many nice wheels out there to have to deal with this drama.

Yikes.. not a good way to run a business.

My new Forgelines took 4 weeks, so 8 seems like forever. But custom wheels do take awhile. I think the worst part is the lack of the communication and the unfulfille promises. If someting is going to take 10 weeks then most guys are fine with that if they are told 10 weeks. If they are told 4 weeks then they are rightly pissed.

Hope ya'all get your wheels.

[Steve1968LS2]

I hope its not same with forgeline..:_paranoid Frank said something between 4-6 weeks...

Mine took four.. :shrug:

At least I know I can call Dave or Scott and they will answer or return my call. lol

I think Frank has all of thier home and cell phone numbers. ;)

[Vegas69]

I had mine in under 4 as well from Forgeline. I was always able to speak with Scott Main. Zak at Boze is just as easy to speak with. :thumbsup: I think Forgeline is pretty busy right now, probably because of Fikse's issues. That being said, I would've waited 8 weeks for them. I would be worried as well. You can't get them to call you back when they are making your wheels, what if you have an issue down the road. Is it possible to pull the plug and charge back a card???

[GregWeld]

I'm heading down there this AM -- will leave the house here around 9AM (after traffic -- when you're retired -- you get to pick and choose when you want to sit in stop and go!! LOL)

Will post as soon as I see what's up!

Figure 10:30 ish

[Steve1968LS2]

I'm heading down there this AM -- will leave the house here around 9AM (after traffic -- when you're retired -- you get to pick and choose when you want to sit in stop and go!! LOL)

Will post as soon as I see what's up!

Figure 10:30 ish

Cool.. we have our own recon squad... lol

[GregWeld]

Cool.. we have our own recon squad... lol

Steve,

I'm all over it buddy!

Since I'm a "squad" of one - that makes me a squid!

Leaving now.

:thumbsup:

[R67Chevelle]

I maybe be out of line, but 2-4 months for custom wheels:rolleyes: how can anyone make and excuse for this. I can see a reasonable time of maybe 3-4 weeks, and sometimes delays occur, thats understandable. But come on. Business today is much different then even 10 years ago. I was going to order some center line wheels and a guy I know of it took I think it was 13 weeks for wheels for his truck and they said they were "overstock"(they were not even a custome fit, but forged -polished 8 lug truck wheels same thing no communication or very little. Things are not booming like it was 2 or maybe 3 years ago. This is not rocket science here. There is no excuse for Fikse on this. Is this sign that they are on their way out of business? If it were me and its not, I would put a reverse on my credit card and tell them to have a nice bankruptcy....

Blessings,
AMS

[Swain]

I maybe be out of line, but 2-4 months for custom wheels:rolleyes: how can anyone make and excuse for this. I can see a reasonable time of maybe 3-4 weeks, and sometimes delays occur, thats understandable. But come on. Business today is much different then even 10 years ago. I was going to order some center line wheels and a guy I know of it took I think it was 13 weeks for wheels for his truck and they said they were "overstock"(they were not even a custome fit, but forged -polished 8 lug truck wheels same thing no communication or very little. Things are not booming like it was 2 or maybe 3 years ago. This is not rocket science here. There is no excuse for Fikse on this. Is this sign that they are on their way out of business? If it were me and its not, I would put a reverse on my credit card and tell them to have a nice bankruptcy....

Blessings,
AMS

I don't think you know much about custom wheels then. Most company's quote 6 weeks and up to build a set. We quote 8-10 weeks right now. It just depends on the company. Custom wheels are built to order and not mass produced that's why they take time. Ya a company could bust out a set in a day or so but they wouldn't be able to work on multiple sets at a time. There are a lot of different stages and sometimes material issues.

[ProdigyCustoms]

I cancelled my open Fikse orders today via e mail since they WILL NOT return my calls or emails for weeks now.

[Forgeline 1]

I hope its not same with forgeline..:_paranoid Frank said something between 4-6 weeks...

We are currently running 3 maybe 4 weeks on almost every order.

Scott Main
Forgeline Motorsports
800-886-0093 ext. 308
www.forgeline.com
[email protected]

[GregWeld]

I've been here since 9am. It's now 10:15 nobody here. Place is dark and the dumpster out back is mostly empty. No mail on the floor though. But it has that eery empty feeling.

I'd be looking for a new wheel supplier if it were me. This doesn't look right. No pallets out back. Nobody on the phones. Not good.

The recon squid.

[Stuart Adams]

Hope no one lost deposit money.

[ItDoRun]

I've been here since 9am. It's now 10:15 nobody here. Place is dark and the dumpster out back is mostly empty. No mail on the floor though. But it has that eery empty feeling.

I'd be looking for a new wheel supplier if it were me. This doesn't look right. No pallets out back. Nobody on the phones. Not good.

The recon squid.


Thanks for taking the time to drive over. That's not what I wanted to hear, but at least we know why they're not answering.

[monza]

I've been here since 9am. It's now 10:15 nobody here. Place is dark and the dumpster out back is mostly empty. No mail on the floor though. But it has that eery empty feeling.

I'd be looking for a new wheel supplier if it were me. This doesn't look right. No pallets out back. Nobody on the phones. Not good.

The recon squid.


Nice the lat-G recon... hopefully not much $$ lost on deposits!!!

[tones2SS]

What bothers me the most is if I get the wheels and there's problem with them. With the lack of communication from them right now, that could be a disaster.

I was thinking the same exact thing reading this thread.
You don't want to end up with what may have gotten damaged in the shipping process and then have no way of replacing them. **Kudos to Greg for checking up on them for you!!**:cheers:
GOOD LUCK!!:thumbsup:

[GregWeld]

Nobody that plans or wants to stay in business fails to contact their customers.


Run don't walk to the nearest exit the first time they don't respond to you.

[ProdigyCustoms]

I also heard it has been vacant for the last 2 weeks. No one that is a customer of ours will lose anything weather we get our money back from Fikse or not.

Chris, I talked to your dealer, I know your safe also.

In the meantime, one of my customers needed his wheels this week or was lossing his spot in the shop he is in. Forgeline steping up to bat and offering to push his order to the front of the line and we will have them by Halloween.

Those Forgeline guys are just the best.

[Rybar]

Damn, crappy news to hear. I spoke to Wil a few weeks ago when I was pricing out some wheels. My budget got blown up since I had to replace the roof on my house. I sent them an e-mail and he called back right away.

This really sucks, I really wanted these wheels for my car when I do a mini-tub down the road. Looks like it's not gonna happen. SW, James or Charley want to sell me your old sets? :unibrow:

[Stuart Adams]

Great opportunity for another manufacturer to gain market share. Survival of the fittest.

[cees67]

man this sux to hear ...fwiw My ccw's came in 2 weeks , i waited two weeks to mount tires and found out they were the wrong size called John sent them back on his dime, and had the right ones within a week ! i couldnt believe how efficient and easy to deal with he was . Oh yeah i put the order in late on a saturday and he called me back from his cell phone to confirm it . First time customer too:thumbsup:

[ItDoRun]

I also heard it has been vacant for the last 2 weeks. No one that is a customer of ours will lose anything weather we get our money back from Fikse or not.

Chris, I talked to your dealer, I know your safe also.

In the meantime, one of my customers needed his wheels this week or was lossing his spot in the shop he is in. Forgeline steping up to bat and offering to push his order to the front of the line and we will have them by Halloween.

Those Forgeline guys are just the best.

Thanks, Frank. I need to give him a call after reading all this.

Boy, talk about taking the wind out of your sails. I've been busting my rear to get my car ready for wheels and tires to be mocked up and rear suspension welded in and now this. My car has been on a body cart for a little over a year now and I was finally to the point to be able to pull it off the cart and put it on the set of Fikse's I've drooled over for almost 3 years.

First it was the metal replacement/body work portion of my car that I was shafted on 2-1/2 years ago, now the wheels. Oh well, you win some and you lose some. I'll just keep the ole' chin up and move forward.

[Steve1968LS2]

Damn, crappy news to hear. I spoke to Wil a few weeks ago when I was pricing out some wheels.

Nick spoke with Will.. he was laid off back in September. :(

Not looking good.

[Steve68]

Boy, if I guess if I need to change BS or anything else on my wheels, I'm now seriously F&%K ed, I'm glad Franks a Forgeline dealer!!!!

[Vegas69]

At least go out in style without ripping people off. You the man Greg.....

[Steve1968LS2]

Boy, if I guess if I need to change BS or anything else on my wheels, I'm now seriously F&%K ed, I'm glad Franks a Forgeline dealer!!!!

Actually, from what I understand, Forgeline can re-hoop Fikse wheels since they use the same bolt pattern.

Now if you junk up a center I think you're out of luck.

[Steve68]

Steve, Good to know,

Greg good job one the recon,

[Rybar]

I wonder if Forgeline would buy out thier designs?

[Lenie]

Nobody that plans or wants to stay in business fails to contact their customers.


Run don't walk to the nearest exit the first time they don't respond to you.

Greg, I had no idea you were so close. I live in Port Orchard.

[ItDoRun]

I wonder if Forgeline would buy out thier designs?

I was wondering the same thing.

[GregWeld]

Greg, I had no idea you were so close. I live in Port Orchard.


Lenie --

Says right on my posts -- top right hand side BELLEVUE, WA !!

Love your car by the way!

Poulsbo was our weekend home away from home many many years of weekends on the "da boat"!

[elitecustombody]

I don't think you know much about custom wheels then. Most company's quote 6 weeks and up to build a set. We quote 8-10 weeks right now. It just depends on the company. Custom wheels are built to order and not mass produced that's why they take time. Ya a company could bust out a set in a day or so but they wouldn't be able to work on multiple sets at a time. There are a lot of different stages and sometimes material issues.

Jay, do I get a family discount on your wheels? I'm also a Budnik:cheers:

[buickfunnycar.com]

I've been here since 9am. It's now 10:15 nobody here. Place is dark and the dumpster out back is mostly empty. No mail on the floor though. But it has that eery empty feeling.

I'd be looking for a new wheel supplier if it were me. This doesn't look right. No pallets out back. Nobody on the phones. Not good.

The recon squid.

That is NOT good news...:_paranoid

[tjbruning]

We're having a similar problem with another wheel manufacturer. :mad:

We ordered a set of Enkreuz wheels for a customer in April, yes April... and are still waiting. I paid the final balance at the end of August since the wheels were finally completed. Yes, the wheels took way way too long, but I talked to Scott at Forgeline (the actual manufacturer) and he verified that they shipped the wheel centers at the end of July. Enkreuz does the final assembly "in house."

We call, email, and text message on a daily basis and Enkreuz continues to come up with a new excuse every time. They told us yesterday that the wheels shipped last Thursday, but I can't get a tracking number from them (or a call back for that matter...) We'll see what happens.

Any recon squids live near Irvine California??? :rolleyes:

[Jr]

We're having a similar problem with another wheel manufacturer. :mad:

We ordered a set of Enkreuz wheels for a customer in April, yes April... and are still waiting. I paid the final balance at the end of August since the wheels were finally completed. Yes, the wheels took way way too long, but I talked to Scott at Forgeline (the actual manufacturer) and he verified that they shipped the wheel centers at the end of July. Enkreuz does the final assembly "in house."

We call, email, and text message on a daily basis and Enkreuz continues to come up with a new excuse every time. They told us yesterday that the wheels shipped last Thursday, but I can't get a tracking number from them (or a call back for that matter...) We'll see what happens.

Any recon squids live near Irvine California??? :rolleyes:

I live about 10-15 minutes from Irvine. Let me know if you really want me stop by.

[ItDoRun]

Well, I just got off the phone with my dealer and my money and his money is secure. Now, I've lost 8 weeks and am back at square one. :(

[buickfunnycar.com]

Now, I've lost 8 weeks and am back at square one. :(

So that means no wheels...?:_paranoid

[GregWeld]

Chris --

It's only "time" -- it could have been your MONEY and your time... be thankful for the little things.

I'm tellin' ya -- for me -- I hesitate to give ANYONE an advance on anything anymore (that's a lot of "anys"!).... there's so many stories of people being burned.

[camaro2nv]

When I ran the wheel shop EVERYTHING was COD, EVERYTHING! Nothing gets these guys to move faster the getting their money.

[elitecustombody]

Well, I just got off the phone with my dealer and my money and his money is secure. Now, I've lost 8 weeks and am back at square one. :(


Have you checked wth HRE or CCW? You'll probably save good half of $$ if you go with CCW, can't say that for HRE, but they have alot better selection of styles than Fikse or CCW

[speedjohnston]

I just ordered another pair of Forgelines through prodigy customs. Beautiful wheels, great price and the best customer service. I got my last 2 wheels in about 3 weeks and I think that was only because I added tires to my order last minute.

[ItDoRun]

So that means no wheels...?:_paranoid

No wheels.

[ItDoRun]

Have you checked wth HRE or CCW? You'll probably save good half of $$ if you go with CCW, can't say that for HRE, but they have alot better selection of styles than Fikse or CCW

I haven't even thought about it yet. Too bummed right now.

[buickfunnycar.com]

So then Fikse is no more...?:_paranoid

[Rybar]

So then Fikse is no more...?:_paranoid

That Royally Sucks :thmbsdwn:

[Lenie]

Lenie --

Says right on my posts -- top right hand side BELLEVUE, WA !!

Love your car by the way!

Poulsbo was our weekend home away from home many many years of weekends on the "da boat"!

I guess I just need to open my eyes a little wider:lol:
Maybe one day we'll run in to each other intentionally. Until then, I need to get this car done. Yeah, Poulsbo's right down the road as the crow flies.

[Lenie]

We're having a similar problem with another wheel manufacturer. :mad:

We ordered a set of Enkreuz wheels for a customer in April, yes April... and are still waiting. I paid the final balance at the end of August since the wheels were finally completed. Yes, the wheels took way way too long, but I talked to Scott at Forgeline (the actual manufacturer) and he verified that they shipped the wheel centers at the end of July. Enkreuz does the final assembly "in house."

We call, email, and text message on a daily basis and Enkreuz continues to come up with a new excuse every time. They told us yesterday that the wheels shipped last Thursday, but I can't get a tracking number from them (or a call back for that matter...) We'll see what happens.

Any recon squids live near Irvine California??? :rolleyes:

And I like those wheels, bummer. TJ, Tim, good to see you on the board again. Hope all is going well.

[whiplash911]

im not sure this is going to help - but i have a friend who is part of TRG (the racers group - factory supported porsche team involved in the Koni challenge and the Grand American Rolex GT Series) they are product development for and use Fikse wheels.

I placed a call to him after i read this and as soon as i hear back ill post his response

[BRIAN]

What I do not get with the wheel delay deal is the hoops are all bought from the same suppliers. They use the same centers no matter what wheel width. So the operations needed are drill lug pattern, finish and install in hoop. I am lost why this takes 4 months?

I Think the wheel Co's just do not want to outlay the money to stock inventory of centers? Honestly it is tolerated and became Industry norm but if there is demand bump up production and maybe stop trying to squeeze every penny out of every order.

If there is another reason don't bash just explain why? It really shouldn't be accepted policy. It can take less time to have a car painted. Compare the labor hours.

I hope all works out and there are plenty of other wheel Co's CCW delivers very fast and answers their phones.

[Steve1968LS2]

What I do not get with the wheel delay deal is the hoops are all bought from the same suppliers. They use the same centers no matter what wheel width. So the operations needed are drill lug pattern, finish and install in hoop. I am lost why this takes 4 months?

I Think the wheel Co's just do not want to outlay the money to stock inventory of centers? Honestly it is tolerated and became Industry norm but if there is demand bump up production and maybe stop trying to squeeze every penny out of every order.

If there is another reason don't bash just explain why? It really shouldn't be accepted policy. It can take less time to have a car painted. Compare the labor hours.

I hope all works out and there are plenty of other wheel Co's CCW delivers very fast and answers their phones.

No, the centers are different based on varrying pad thickness'

I think there are other issues as well. I would also think wheel companies would want to deliver as quickly as possible to get the final payment.

Maybe a wheel company can respond better though.

[buickfunnycar.com]

...calling Jason Rushforth to the stand.:lol:

[ItDoRun]

So then Fikse is no more...?:_paranoid

I'm not 100% sure on that, but it doesn't look good at this time. I hate to say it, but I'm moving on with another wheel. Not sure what wheel to go with now, but I'll find something that fits the car and that I'm happy with.

As for Fikse, I really hope they can get their act together. They make a beautiful wheel, but the product is only a portion of what business is about.

[R67Chevelle]

We are currently running 3 maybe 4 weeks on almost every order.

Scott Main
Forgeline Motorsports
800-886-0093 ext. 308
www.forgeline.com
[email protected]



Now this is a reasonable time frame. Things at times can go further and thats understandable...

Blessings,
AMS

[R67Chevelle]

I don't think you know much about custom wheels then. Most company's quote 6 weeks and up to build a set. We quote 8-10 weeks right now. It just depends on the company. Custom wheels are built to order and not mass produced that's why they take time. Ya a company could bust out a set in a day or so but they wouldn't be able to work on multiple sets at a time. There are a lot of different stages and sometimes material issues.


I don't claim to know it all, but I understand the process and the work and machining that is involved.... Yes you are right that material issues are a common situation.... I don't mind paying top $$ for true quality, and service either, but email is easy and takes only seconds... I don't make as many phone calls because its time consuming.... I am terrible at returning phone calls, but email I am almost always on top of... Also, when my chevelle is ready for wheels I will be placing my order with you.... Got them picked out....:unibrow: Now I understand about how long I would have to wait and I am fine with that...

Blessings,
AMS

[LateNight72]

I'm surprised that they up and died, considering how many racing venues they were involved with. Wonder where those Race Teams and Leagues will turn to for their wheels?






LOL. Atleast we know people are scouting Lat-G. :unibrow:

http://www.supraforums.com/forum/showthread.php?p=7142548

[Tom.A]

Wow. This is a bummer as they make a nice product. I think my Fikse's took 6-7 weeks through Frank. I hope somebody buys the the rights if they did go under.

Chris, I am glad you are getting your money back. Too many times it ends up the other way.

[awr68]

Greg, thanks for going over there today...that helps clear this up!!

Chris, I guess it's time to start all over again on picking out a wheel for your killer project...let the emails fly buddy, I'm ready to help!! :cheers:

Rupp, it's good the hear that I still can have my Fikse's re-hooped if need be!

[ItDoRun]

Chris, I am glad you are getting your money back. Too many times it ends up the other way.

You're right, it could be much worse, and I'm thankful it didn't end up that way.

[65 347]

Two thumbs up for Greg for taking the time and going to check.
I still can't believe how far some of the members on this board will go to help each other out. Very cool!:thumbsup:

[ItDoRun]

Chris, I guess it's time to start all over again on picking out a wheel for your killer project...let the emails fly buddy, I'm ready to help!! :cheers:

Oh, you know I'll be bouncing ideas off of you.

I was thinking last night that I may go a different route on the look of the car than before because of all this. I didn't remember until I got home and went in my little boy's room that I have an 18x24 rendering from Carter that's no good now! I may go a different color, different look, etc. Not sure yet, but you'll be one of the first to know.

[ItDoRun]

Two thumbs up for Greg for taking the time and going to check.
I still can't believe how far some of the members on this board will go to help each other out. Very cool!:thumbsup:

I know. I owe him lunch or dinner if I'm ever in that area. Thanks again, Greg. :thumbsup:

[XcYZ]

Two thumbs up for Greg for taking the time and going to check.
I still can't believe how far some of the members on this board will go to help each other out. Very cool!:thumbsup:

Agreed. Great work, Greg!

[awr68]

Two thumbs up for Greg for taking the time and going to check.
I still can't believe how far some of the members on this board will go to help each other out. Very cool!:thumbsup:

Yep Greg done good!! :thumbsup:

I don't want to take anything away from Greg...but Eric (70rs) offered last week and was set up to go down there Monday for us...but after hearing from many others that this was just the norm with Fikse right now I told him Monday morning not to make the trip to see what was going on at Fikse. I know he would have done the trip if I hadn't called him...so props to you to buddy! :thumbsup:

Thanks for making the trip over there Greg...that really helps Chris understand better what was going on and now is able to move on! :cheers:

[GregWeld]

Thanks for all the thanks...

Any of you would do the same. That's why we're all in this together! It's just the cars that get us together... but it's the people that KEEP us together.

BTW - Eric and I talked about this and YES he was heading to see about FIXSE until "they" decided just to wait. It's a long way for Eric to go - yet he was all over it. For me - it's 20 minutes... and there's a couple of metal stores down that way I love to shop at... It also lets me tell my wife what a "busy" day I had (she has no idea where these places are....). LOL

NOW -- I want to add a disclaimer here. I did not report that FIXSE is out of business.... I only reported what I saw... which was that it doesn't appear to be a robust, "normal" amount of business activity. Given that they're not returning phone calls... even to bonafide dealers... coupled with other anecdotal evidence - it appears that all is not "well" at this point. I would caution too much "chatter" about it though... you want to watch what you "put in words" if you know what I'm saying. So let's just leave it at that.

IF you have wheels on order with them... I would say - as I would advise any friend in a similar situation - that if I was getting NO RETURN PHONE CALLS or EMAILS or FAXES - that I would be MORE THAN a bit concerned about that particular supplier. Customer service is paramount - regardless of the quality of the product.

[Al Moreno]

I guess Mark Stielow got the last set. :_paranoid ''

That's to bad to hear, they made great looking wheels.

[GregWeld]

I guess Mark Stielow got the last set. :_paranoid ''

That's to bad to hear, they made great looking wheels.

Well.... let's not bury this supplier yet.... This might be a temporary 'issue' that gets straightened out. Give 'em a chance. Who knows what the issue(s) are... the owner could just have Swine Flu... It's not like there was a padlock on the door...

But then again... they might have fallen off a cliff too...

[ItDoRun]

Well.... let's not bury this supplier yet.... This might be a temporary 'issue' that gets straightened out. Give 'em a chance. Who knows what the issue(s) are... the owner could just have Swine Flu... It's not like there was a padlock on the door...

But then again... they might have fallen off a cliff too...

Agreed. I personally can't see them being out of business, but I have been known to be wrong once or twice. Time will tell. I hope they bounce back.

[CraigMorrison]

sorry to threadjack, but you should try building a gun! I put together my first AR15 for varmint hunting this year and the barreled upper took nearly 30 weeks to get to me! Some companies were quoting 12-18 months! Nothing custom, just a off the shelf upper. No info from the MFG, just a canned line of 25-30 weeks from date of order. Threadjack done.

I know it sucks to wait, but it could be worse. Hope it all ends well for you!

[tones2SS]

Well.... let's not bury this supplier yet.... This might be a temporary 'issue' that gets straightened out. Give 'em a chance. Who knows what the issue(s) are... the owner could just have Swine Flu... It's not like there was a padlock on the door...

But then again... they might have fallen off a cliff too...

Very true. They "may" have shut down the shop for a couple of weeks to save/conserve money for payroll or utilities??:_paranoid

[GregWeld]

Well -- Let's put it this way....

IF I was to order from them... it would be COD with NO cash up front. Maybe a small deposit using a credit card... and I do mean small.

I just won't "reward" a guy with business - when they've proven themselves to have crappy customer service... it just isn't going to happen that way. It's like rewarding a spoiled child having a temper tantrum in the grocery store - by promising them candy if they behave...

No service - no sale. Way too many GREAT suppliers out there that would LOVE TO HAVE YOUR BUSINESS... and will treat you like you just might be buying more in the future.

:lateral: :cheers: :woot:

[tones2SS]

Well -- Let's put it this way....

IF I was to order from them... it would be COD with NO cash up front. Maybe a small deposit using a credit card... and I do mean small.

I just won't "reward" a guy with business - when they've proven themselves to have crappy customer service... it just isn't going to happen that way. It's like rewarding a spoiled child having a temper tantrum in the grocery store - by promising them candy if they behave...

No service - no sale. Way too many GREAT suppliers out there that would LOVE TO HAVE YOUR BUSINESS... and will treat you like you just might be buying more in the future.

:lateral: :cheers: :woot:

Very true Greg and very well said.
COD or NO SALE!!! lol:thumbsup:

[1970judge]

This really bites! I wanted a set of FM/10's for my car, but I guess I will be looking else where now. Anybody else make a mesh style wheel that DONT have rivets on the outer? That really bothers me. So far, all i see is 360 forged wheels that are rivetless on the outer.

[Vegas69]

This really bites! I wanted a set of FM/10's for my car, but I guess I will be looking else where now. Anybody else make a mesh style wheel that DONT have rivets on the outer? That really bothers me. So far, all i see is 360 forged wheels that are rivetless on the outer.

Forgeline does for sure....and Boze may as well.

[1970judge]

I looked at Boze, they have their "pro touring" wheel that is close with no rivets. And forgeline appears to all have outside rivets too! Any chance if Fikse has gone away that someone will pick up their wheels?

[LateNight72]

I looked at Boze, they have their "pro touring" wheel that is close with no rivets. And forgeline appears to all have outside rivets too! Any chance if Fikse has gone away that someone will pick up their wheels?
You can order Forgelines with hidden hardware.

http://www.forgeline.com/products/accessories-finishes/hidden-bolt-option/hidden-bolt-option.html

[Vegas69]

Yeah...I didn't just pull that out of my ass..... Why ask if you aren't going to take the advice?

[1970judge]

Easy dude, I overlooked that on their website. Apologies for not digging deeper.

[Forgeline 1]

This is our newst design, the DE3P. Available 18" 19" and 20".
This shows the blind bolt option. It is available with standard hardware showing as well.

http://www.forgeline.com/product_images/product_photo-xlarge_image-301.jpg

[Steve1968LS2]

This is our newst design, the DE3P. Available 18" 19" and 20".
This shows the blind bolt option. It is available with standard hardware showing as well.


Do you offer other wheels with blind bolts as well? (like the WC3)

[Forgeline 1]

Any of the wheels in our Premiere Series can be built 18" 19" 20" using the blind bolt option.
I can also offer the 19" and 20" Performance series with the hidden or blind bolt option.

[Swain]

...calling Jason Rushforth to the stand.:lol:

Why do that?

[70rs]

Why do that?

Jason Rushforth also has a new mesh wheel just released. I am not sure about the hardware options. I really like it. It may be a good alternative to what has been on the market since it is a little different mesh design.
:cheers:

[buickfunnycar.com]

Why do that?

Steve Rupp asked for an clarification from a manufacturers standpoint and he's the only one I personally know...:yes:

[1970judge]

Awesome guys, that's what I am looking for!

[1970judge]

Do you offer other wheels with blind bolts as well? (like the WC3)

Just what I was wondering! WC3's looks sick on bad penny. I would like a set with blind bolts, black centers, and white lips.

[YancyJohns]

He's a pic of the DE3P's I'm putting on the Fastlane Fairlane. They're Sweeeeeet!!!
http://i252.photobucket.com/albums/hh26/yancyjohns/forgelinewheel.jpg

[ProdigyCustoms]

Just what I was wondering! WC3's looks sick on bad penny. I would like a set with blind bolts, black centers, and white lips.

Can't do the blind bolts on the WC3 though,

[Steve1968LS2]

Can't do the blind bolts on the WC3 though,

Can you do black bolts so they don't stand out?

Personally, I like the bolts.. adds a little more visual interest.

[1970judge]

Can't do the blind bolts on the WC3 though,

Don't take this the wrong way, I am certainly not wanting to offend anybody here, but what is it about certain wheels like the WC3 that can not utilize the hidden bolts as opposed to the other wheels? Just so I will have an understanding, I like to learn.

[tones2SS]

This is our newst design, the DE3P. Available 18" 19" and 20".
This shows the blind bolt option. It is available with standard hardware showing as well.

http://www.forgeline.com/product_images/product_photo-xlarge_image-301.jpg

That's a nice looking wheel.:thumbsup:
Reminds me of HRE's. (Which is a good thing.)

[Forgeline 1]

In order to use the hidden hardware or blind bolt option as we call it, there needs to be enough aluminum in the register or the point where the assembly bolts pass through. Because the assembly bolts have to be a certain length for strenght and integrity, I need to change the thickness of the register on all of my forgings to accept the blind bolts, otherwise they break through the face of the wheel. I have changed most of my programs to accept the blind bolt option, all of the Premiere Series and 19" 20" Performance Series is available blind bolt.

All of this comes down to customer demand and keeping up with the ever changing market. So......
What does everyone think? Do I need to make the 18" WC3, SP3 SO3 and ZX3 available with the stepped lip and blind bolt option?
Let me know what you think, is that option going to have a broad appeal?

[JayR]

This sucks to see a long-time quality company go away like that and hate to capitalize on a customer's misfortune but sine John and Eric brought me up, our new Night Train is available without hardware in 2 piece but not in 3 piece at this time.

http://i256.photobucket.com/albums/hh175/RushforthWheels/100_1012.jpg

[camcojb]

In order to use the hidden hardware or blind bolt option as we call it, there needs to be enough aluminum in the register or the point where the assembly bolts pass through. Because the assembly bolts have to be a certain length for strenght and integrity, I need to change the thickness of the register on all of my forgings to accept the blind bolts, otherwise they break through the face of the wheel. I have changed most of my programs to accept the blind bolt option, all of the Premiere Series and 19" 20" Performance Series is available blind bolt.

All of this comes down to customer demand and keeping up with the ever changing market. So......
What does everyone think? Do I need to make the 18" WC3, SP3 SO3 and ZX3 available with the stepped lip and blind bolt option?
Let me know what you think, is that option going to have a broad appeal?

I've always liked the clean look of no bolts/rivets.

Jody

[1970judge]

It appeals to me for sure, I prefer the clean look as opposed to the bolts showing. But I am only one person.

[overlap]

In order to use the hidden hardware or blind bolt option as we call it, there needs to be enough aluminum in the register or the point where the assembly bolts pass through. Because the assembly bolts have to be a certain length for strenght and integrity, I need to change the thickness of the register on all of my forgings to accept the blind bolts, otherwise they break through the face of the wheel. I have changed most of my programs to accept the blind bolt option, all of the Premiere Series and 19" 20" Performance Series is available blind bolt.

All of this comes down to customer demand and keeping up with the ever changing market. So......
What does everyone think? Do I need to make the 18" WC3, SP3 SO3 and ZX3 available with the stepped lip and blind bolt option?
Let me know what you think, is that option going to have a broad appeal?
I would consider your 18" stepped lip WC3's with the blind bolt option as I was headed toward Fikse wheels until this notice came about. I like the blind bolt option because they are easier to clean from a maintenance point of view ie.... easier to dry off from a major cleaning.
No water runs to catch right after the vehicle has been moved from washing as I will drive my ride rain or shine. So make some and they will sell. Thanks

[GregWeld]

I have a set of Vellano VSH with the bolts "showing" -- I HATE washing these wheels...

I'd buy a blind set over the hardware showing anyday after owning these.


Just my .02 worth!

[awr68]

There are a lot of wheels that could have worked for me, but in the end I chose Fikse Profil 10's due to their blind hardware. I prefer the clean look and I liked the quality so it was a win-win for me!

Put me on the 'blind hardware lover' list! :cheers:

[DOOM]

I'm a big fan of the blind option but for some reason the mesh looks better with the hardware showing..:cheers:

[XcYZ]

I'm a big fan of the blind option but for some reason the mesh looks better with the hardware showing..:cheers:

I agree, it depends on the style of wheel. Some looke better with exposed hardware, some look better with hidden. :thumbsup:

[DriverzInc]

No no no, wheel centers are not just off the shelf ready to be bolted into or welded into a wheel outer, and wheel manufacturers are certainly not sitting around holding their (----> wasting time and not putting together wheels to ship.

Wheel centers are available in countless numbers of raw forgings, in all different profiles (or cross sections). From that point, raw forgings are turned on a lathe to further alter their cross section, and to open up their center bores, and to turn down their overall diameters to the thousands. Sometimes, cross sections, and center bores, and pad length, and pad diameter can even vary by each individual wheel design, and even wheel order. (For example, I spec out wheel pad length by the order to cater to the individual customer's needs.) Now take those processes, and multiply them literally by the hundred for the amount of orders in at one time, and that is a small fraction as to why wheels take so long to manufacture. All of the preceding I just described has to happen before a wheel center is even put into a CNC and milled to a design.

To explain the entire process to someone not familiar with the terminology, or any concept of the manufacturing process can be cumbersome and confusing, but certainly everyone has to understand that "custom" wheels take TIME to manufacture. IF they could be done faster, certainly everyone would do so as every manufacturer's main concern is to be paid. So if custom wheels take 8 weeks or longer, it is because they JUST DO, and know that if it could be done faster it certainly would be.

There's a small bit of an answer to a much bigger question earlier asked in this thread. From someone who's worked at a manufacture, and now sells for several manufacturers, I've been around the block. Hope that helps a little. It may come across a bit condescending, and I apologize if it does, but it would be almost a novel to write to clearly explain the entire process, but believe me when I say, custom wheels take time... they just do. Some manufacturer's take more time as they may have a larger back log of orders, or just quite frankly their processes may take more time, and that is the one place where you would hope that said manufacturer would be honest with their customers about their lead times, but I think every manufacturer would agree, they would all like to turn wheels out faster if they could, and they are probably working hard every day to do just that.

I think I am going to get started on a book that explains the custom wheel manufacturing process, and how manufacturers do it, and why these processes take time and finally put this long time debate to rest.

Back to Fikse, its too bad if they are not around any longer, but until we hear official word, we should not assume anything just yet. There are countless reasons why their office may look like a ghost town...

[GregWeld]

Jon -- Thank you for a great explanation of the "biz". I think we all tend to forget that this isn't as much a wheel biz as it is a "machining" biz - and as you say... custom parts to the 1000th of an inch takes time.

NOW...

QUOTE: Back to Fikse, its too bad if they are not around any longer, but until we hear official word, we should not assume anything just yet. There are countless reasons why their office may look like a ghost town... END QUOTE

There are or could be many reasons for this - but in the end... regardless of the reason... you can't abandon the customer. When you fail to respond to a customer, you're as good as gone. If that's how you (not YOU personally) run a business, then you're a failed business regardless of how desirable your product is "right now".

[Forgeline 1]

Very well written Jon,
Another point to keep in mind is that a lot of "wheel manufactures" are not manufactures at all. They simply assemble wheels. They rely on other companies to supply them with parts. Any time you have to count on a seperate company to supply you with parts, you are relying on their schedule, their inventory, their quality. If any of these do not come through you could be waiting for weeks maybe months to get your wheel order complete.
We consistantly run 3-4 weeks on most orders. If Forgeline takes longer than that, there is an issue with a part or in quality control. I also do my best to keep the buyer informed if we run long on a build. As it was stated here before, most everyone will understand as long as you comunicate with the customer.

[Steve1968LS2]

I think I am going to get started on a book that explains the custom wheel manufacturing process, and how manufacturers do it, and why these processes take time and finally put this long time debate to rest.

Hey, that would make a good story.. hmmm


Back to Fikse, its too bad if they are not around any longer, but until we hear official word, we should not assume anything just yet. There are countless reasons why their office may look like a ghost town...

There might be good reasons why the building is dark, why they laid off one of thier key staffers and all the other "indicators".. but there is NO good reason why they haven't called back anyone for weeks on thier orders, especially those who have paid them thousands of dollars in deposits. For that I can think of no good reason at all.

[camcojb]

It appears that Fikse may not be out of business. They are aware of this thread, maybe someone from there will post up as to what is happening.

Jody

[z4me69]

even if there not out of biz they will be soon.with customer support like this. i was going to order next month but i will go with another wheel now after this. i dont care how nice there wheels are most people would understand if they were just told there were problems instead of silence. and i bet they have known about the thread since day 1

[BRIAN]

Not to argue but then explain how some are delivering in 3-4 weeks and some take 6 month with almost identical designs.

It does not matter what you are mfg or how complicated it is there can be an investment made to shorten mfg times. The wheel industry knows everybody will wait and simply does not feel the investment is worth the money or small loss of business.

Sorry but just because you are in the wheel business and are a good guy does not make a good answer to me. If we had to wait that long for every part could you imagine how long it would take to build a car.?

There are tons of highly complicated and technical parts that are delivered on time and in a reasonable amount of time. You can't tell me it takes 6 months to mfg a wheel set. If it does you wouldn't be in business. They can invest in additional staff and machine to speed up production but when you have the consumer by the balls why bother it just means more profit.

Now I know the Rushford crowd is going to jump down my throat so before that happens if you can deliver in 4 weeks you are simply supporting my opinion. It can be done.

Hey if everybody is ok with waiting 6 months for wheels I guess I am in the minority. But these threads are a weekly occurrence in regards to "Where are my Wheels"??

In regards to Fikse if anybody is stupid enough to order wheels from a Co that would just abandon their business for weeks you deserve what you get. I could care less what their well thought out excuse is going o be. There are way too many wheel Co's with almost identical designs and a lot lower cost.

[buickfunnycar.com]

Thanks for the info Jon,alot of people (me included) have no clue what goes on behind the scenes so yeah...when you writing the book?:rolleyes:

There is a reason why wheels take the time they do to machine/build,if this process could be sped up,you know it would.
As Jon said,it's all about getting paid and I'm pretty sure wheel companies want to be paid ASAP too.:yes:

[GregWeld]

It appears that Fikse may not be out of business. They are aware of this thread, maybe someone from there will post up as to what is happening.

Jody

Jody --

I tried to point this out earlier -- lets not have a GOB sale quite yet...because that will just compound any problems there might be... and you have to give a good manufacturer a chance.. but there is a but..

we've all said it a 1000 times - and we've had this discussion about another supplier of killer products on Lat G.... < Eh Hem - clearing throat here > That you just can't put your head in the sand - and not RESPOND to customers!! You want to get buried - that's the fastest way to start your own funeral as a business.

[Steve1968LS2]

It appears that Fikse may not be out of business. They are aware of this thread, maybe someone from there will post up as to what is happening.

Jody

Well, it would be interesting to hear. But, I know of one high-end build thats was left swinging in the wind over the wheels they needed, and were promised, for SEMA.

They had to go buy off the shelf wheels. That's not the customer service I expect from any company. And no matter what happened there's no excuse for failing to at least give calls out to your customers to let them know there's a delay or a problem.

Just sayin'

[DFRESH]

We're having a similar problem with another wheel manufacturer. :mad:

We ordered a set of Enkreuz wheels for a customer in April, yes April... and are still waiting. I paid the final balance at the end of August since the wheels were finally completed. Yes, the wheels took way way too long, but I talked to Scott at Forgeline (the actual manufacturer) and he verified that they shipped the wheel centers at the end of July. Enkreuz does the final assembly "in house."

We call, email, and text message on a daily basis and Enkreuz continues to come up with a new excuse every time. They told us yesterday that the wheels shipped last Thursday, but I can't get a tracking number from them (or a call back for that matter...) We'll see what happens.

Any recon squids live near Irvine California??? :rolleyes:

Recon Squid reporting for duty.

Called and left you a message with my phone #-I'm off work today and would be happy to drive over and do what I can for you. Just let me know--if I were in your situation, I would hope someone would do the same for me---at least we know Greg would----Greg, did you go over there armed?

Doug:thumbsup:

[ItDoRun]

It appears that Fikse may not be out of business. They are aware of this thread, maybe someone from there will post up as to what is happening.

Jody

I had sent them a PM earlier this week about my wheels, but no response yet. There's obviously something wrong there, but I think we should just let them tell their side of the story, and I'm sure they will. I had no intentions of bashing Fikse with this thread. I was just curious if any of the Fikse dealers knew something that I didn't.

No hard feelings towards Fikse on my end. I would have loved to own a set of their wheels, but it just wasn't in the cards for me, I guess.

[camcojb]

Well, it would be interesting to hear. But, I know of one high-end build thats was left swinging in the wind over the wheels they needed, and were promised, for SEMA.

They had to go buy off the shelf wheels. That's not the customer service I expect from any company. And no matter what happened there's no excuse for failing to at least give calls out to your customers to let them know there's a delay or a problem.

Just sayin'
I know exactly of which you speak.............. :D

[Steve68]

My experience,

in the first page I bellyached about my wheels taking 5 months, Yes this is true, and Frank did have communication with them, he called and asked what the deal was, there response was they got caught up making/repairing wheels for the Grand American series cars and LeMan series cars,

Since my car is not ready to roll I wasn't really worried about it, they were ordered, I'd get them one day,

When I got them, I went to Prodigy and picked them up, I opened one front and one rear, I must admit the wheels are gorgeous, Micheal, Bob and I went damn!!!!! they are very close to works of art, my father just shakes his head, he can't belive what they look like!

My wife shows them off to people more than I do, it's funny to watch her in the garage,

When I went to get the tire mounted, they told me one was bent, Bent how could that be, they showed me on there machine it had a hump to the inside hoop, I called and talked to Will, he told me to leave a message on Jim Fikse personall voice mail and he'll call back, he did and gave me measurement of the runout of each hoop of the fronts, took the wheel to a friends shop that has a brand new tire machine its not bent, nothing wrong at all.

Now, I called Will back and got no response, I thought that was wierd, i was just thinking maybe there just busy but that was in August,

I'm sure they will come back with a response, may take a little....

[Swain]

Steve Rupp asked for an clarification from a manufacturers standpoint and he's the only one I personally know...:yes:

Not a manufacture though

[buickfunnycar.com]

Not a manufacture though

Damn,I get that...let it go already.:rolleyes:

[The Informant]

I had sent them a PM earlier this week about my wheels, but no response yet. There's obviously something wrong there, but I think we should just let them tell their side of the story, and I'm sure they will. I had no intentions of bashing Fikse with this thread. I was just curious if any of the Fikse dealers knew something that I didn't.

No hard feelings towards Fikse on my end. I would have loved to own a set of their wheels, but it just wasn't in the cards for me, I guess.

So, I happened to stumble along this thread in doing some research about a rumor I heard. It just so happens that I'm a former employee of Fikse USA and know Will personally, as we worked together for quite some time. So, anyways, here's the skinny guys/gals...

Fikse is no longer in business as of right now. This is something that has been coming for quite some time as a result of them not having the capacity to handle what was being thrown at them. The level of quality in the product should never be questioned, as they are very well built; however, in order to sustain thier practice, there needed to be more funding than was available. This, at least, was the case when I left the company. That being said, I can't speak for what's been happening recently, but I want to assure you all that none of it had anything to do with Will, if that ever crossed anyone's mind. He is, and always has been, a very stand up person.

Anyways, I just had to pipe up and put all of the uncertainty to rest. Fikse was a great company that built an outstanding product, but being the high priced niche product it was without having the financial backing required to remain competitive, as with any company experiencing such circumstances, it met its demise.

On a side note, I'm very sorry to hear about all of the issues people have been having. It's a shame, an extreme inconvenience to the consumer, and there's really no excuse for it. However, for what it's worth, I can almost assure you it was not the intention of the company to leave you in that position - I guarantee they were just trying to tread water.

:cheers:

PS - Sorry about the corny name... I couldn't help myself :D

[gearheads78]

Not a manufacture though

As a manufacture that was a pretty stupid post IMO. It adds to this conversation how? :rolleyes:

[ItDoRun]

So, I happened to stumble along this thread in doing some research about a rumor I heard. It just so happens that I'm a former employee of Fikse USA and know Will personally, as we worked together for quite some time. So, anyways, here's the skinny guys/gals...

Fikse is no longer in business as of right now. This is something that has been coming for quite some time as a result of them not having the capacity to handle what was being thrown at them. The level of quality in the product should never be questioned, as they are very well built; however, in order to sustain thier practice, there needed to be more funding than was available. This, at least, was the case when I left the company. That being said, I can't speak for what's been happening recently, but I want to assure you all that none of it had anything to do with Will, if that ever crossed anyone's mind. He is, and always has been, a very stand up person.

Anyways, I just had to pipe up and put all of the uncertainty to rest. Fikse was a great company that built an outstanding product, but being the high priced niche product it was without having the financial backing required to remain competitive, as with any company experiencing such circumstances, it met its demise.

On a side note, I'm very sorry to hear about all of the issues people have been having. It's a shame, an extreme inconvenience to the consumer, and there's really no excuse for it. However, for what it's worth, I can almost assure you it was not the intention of the company to leave you in that position - I guarantee they were just trying to tread water.

:cheers:

PS - Sorry about the corny name... I couldn't help myself :D

Thanks for clearing things up. Hopefully they can bounce back again.

[Steve1968LS2]

That being said, I can't speak for what's been happening recently, but I want to assure you all that none of it had anything to do with Will, if that ever crossed anyone's mind. He is, and always has been, a very stand up person.

PS - Sorry about the corny name... I couldn't help myself :D

That's true about Will, he's a stand up guy.. Thanks for the input!

[69MyWay]

I have bought only a few different custom wheels.

I bought some TSW Stealth Wheels in 1999 for my V8 Fiero (17") I waited a month in a half for those.

I bought some AZEV type A in 1994 - waited two months for those

I bought several sets now of Intro wheels from hvydeez.

My first set in 2001 took forever because I went with a 12" hoop. At that time they were having to weld two hoops together to get 12" in a 18" rim...and it took about three months.

My last set turned around in about four weeks (bought them earlier this year).

I did hear something disturbing...

FOOSE wheels made in China. That surprised me he would sell his name out like that.

Too bad on Fiske - they made some sweeeet wheels - Always just out of my price range though.

[Rhino]

I did hear something disturbing...

FOOSE wheels made in China. That surprised me he would sell his name out like that.


Foose wheels are made by MHT. They do everything from high bling forged 26's to budget castings. Technically it's MHT that's offshoring them, but he surely knows about it.

[Thomo5150]

Love this forum, lucky I didn't order the wheels I liked. Looks like I've saved some money and wasted time. I live in the most isolated city in the world, Perth / Western Australia. I am use to waiting for parts, unless there from Summit. They take 7 to 10 days:)

cheers Tim

[1970judge]

Sad to hear. Hope they recover!

[cmraman]

Sad to hear. Hope they recover!

I heard from a good source that Fiske went out of business. If this is not true, hopefully someone could shed some light, but I know my source used them exclusively and I heard this when they tried to order wheels this week.

[WSSix]

Well, add me to the list as a fan who couldn't afford their product. I know that doesn't mean much now that they seem to be gone but I did like their product. The name is still there and could be revived potentially. I'd love to see more manufacturing within this country so here's hoping they come back some how.

So let's see. This week alone we have lost Buell and now Fiske. This crap always happens in threes so who's next?

[The Informant]

I heard from a good source that Fiske went out of business. If this is not true, hopefully someone could shed some light, but I know my source used them exclusively and I heard this when they tried to order wheels this week.

See my previous post.

[GregWeld]

Recon Squid reporting for duty.

Called and left you a message with my phone #-I'm off work today and would be happy to drive over and do what I can for you. Just let me know--if I were in your situation, I would hope someone would do the same for me---at least we know Greg would----Greg, did you go over there armed?

Doug:thumbsup:

Doug --

No need for "arms" -- a SQUID has plenty of them!! :>)

I was "unhappy" to see what I saw though... I would have far preferred to find a running entity... lights on... people WORKING. But I guess that was just wishful thinking.

I feel sorry for the business and the customers. They made nice products.

So... contrary to what most people think... businesses go out of business more often because they can not capitalize their growth... rather than fail due to a lack of business. Amazing isn't it? It costs a lot of money to GROW a business...

A new shop might have customers lined up at the door - but he can't cough up the dough for the new welders he needs - and the two rotisseries in order to do two cars at once - and the person to answer the phones... and the new paint booth they need to turn out higher quality work. SO they failed not from a lack of business - but a lack of capital. This is compounded if you're "successful" rather than grow slowly. Funny how that works...

I hope Jim lands on his feet somewhere and hasn't burned all his bridges.

[Young Gun]

So... can we expect a bailout?

JK, but it sucks to hear this... always loved their wheels

[GregWeld]

Collin --

From the looks of it... he's already "bailed out".

[214Chevy]

I'd look into CCW or HRE wheels, last time I got a set from HRE was less than a month on custom 20x13,20x11 540R's

Agreed, I'm partial to HRE. Just me though. They been around forever and they were some of the first to make multipiece wheels if I'm not mistaken. Got them on my Chevelle and a set will be going on the 68 C10. The only drawback to HRE is they are some of the most expensive wheels on the market. HRE quoted me 6-8 weeks I guess just to cover the spread and they called me in like 4 weeks and my wheels were ready.

[svp]

Just giving my input FWIW....but Zak at Boze has been fantastic to deal with on our latest project. He told me 4-6 weeks and they arrived within that time. Nothing but good things to say here about them.

Sad to see Fikse go under...I always liked some of their wheel designs.

[214Chevy]

Fikse is no longer in business as of right now. This is something that has been coming for quite some time as a result of them not having the capacity to handle what was being thrown at them. The level of quality in the product should never be questioned, as they are very well built; however, in order to sustain thier practice, there needed to be more funding than was available. This, at least, was the case when I left the company. That being said, I can't speak for what's been happening recently, but I want to assure you all that none of it had anything to do with Will, if that ever crossed anyone's mind. He is, and always has been, a very stand up person.
:D


After reading all of the posts, I already had come down to that conclusion long before you clarified it. Just didn't want to say anything in fear of all the big names on here that are well known that would have verbally kicked my ass and I'm just this one unknown guy. Also in reference to your part about "it had been coming for quite sometime" is what erks me. I say this because all the while the company may have known about their current situation, they continued to take money and deposits on new orders from potential customers knowing it could not/was not going to produce the customers wheels. And that, IMO is just plain thievery. I can almost assure you that the guy who started this thread is not the only one. Moving forward, not to offend anyone, I personally didn't like Fikse wheels from a design standpoint. Just a preference guys. But, say Fikse bounces back in 2010 or 2011. Who will be trustworthy of the company knowing how they left their customers hanging? I know I wouldn't be beating down their door to shove $4000-$5000 in their face. Lastly, I conclude I'm not bashing Fikse Wheels, because from hearing you guys talk it was a quality and well reputable product. And I think that was never the issue. So I don't know why that was said 5 million times. It was the lack of customer service. Just like how they didn't want to dropship for one dealer unless he bought three sets of wheels, but would for another. So, Mr. Fikse can go and obtain all the financial backing he wants in the future to prepare for a Sylvester S******e type comeback. I'll end this thread on this note.... FOOL ME ONCE, SHAME ON YOU-FOOL ME TWICE, SHAME ON ME!!! I know it didn't happen to me personally, but if you totally neglected a customer(s) once.........(I'll let ya'll finish that sentence.)

Sorry for the long thread.:soapbox:

[Thomo5150]

Reading the posts I think the Global economic climate has claimed another. The business was trying to expand to keep up with demand. Problem is Banks are not lending money for business to do this. I run a trucking business in Australia 2 years ago you would see your truck dealer place an order ring the bank and within a week you had your $300,000 dollar Kenworth. Now banks want your home as garantee, your 2 children and a kidney. Hope they can trade out of their problems, the economy here is picking up again.

[GregWeld]

Hey! There's a bright side to everything... right?

Now.... everyone with Fixse wheels has collectors items!!

:>)

[awr68]

Now.... everyone with Fixse wheels has collectors items!!

:>)

Does that mean I have to raise my insurance once again? LOL :)

[jst8a5.0]

Hey! There's a bright side to everything... right?

Now.... everyone with Fixse wheels has collectors items!!

:>)

You made me and the wife LOL!

[GregWeld]

You made me and the wife LOL!


Great!! That makes me happy. :thumbsup:

Might as well laugh at the situation - we can't change it or fixse it.

[Thatcher]

This whole thing is very sad but it's been a long time coming. I've known about this for months.

If you guys ever need replacement Fikse parts, I can still get them.

[email protected]

[rogue]

I did hear something disturbing...

FOOSE wheels made in China. That surprised me he would sell his name out like that.

Too bad on Fiske - they made some sweeeet wheels - Always just out of my price range though.


If you think thats disturbing, you're in for a surprise. The majority of 'forged wheel companies' out there are using the same suppliers of wheel faces, hoops etc from China.... The wheels are assembled in the US, the components made in China.

Thats why so many of the same designs are passed around from company to company. They use the same suppliers overseas.

[Forgeline 1]

Forgeline only uses parts manufactured in the USA.
All of my centers, rim shells and assemby parts are 100% american.
The only exception is the plastic center cap. We have our own powder coating line in house & finish and assemble all of our wheels in my Dayton , Ohio manufacturing plant.
Rogue you are correct, there are a lot of " wheel companies" out there that are simply assembly houses that source all parts and finish options from over seas.
You can view how our wheels are made from my websight under Forgeline TV.

http://www.forgelinetv.com/featured_landing.php?reset=true

As always we appreciate your support and welcome your comments.

[214Chevy]

If you think thats disturbing, you're in for a surprise. The majority of 'forged wheel companies' out there are using the same suppliers of wheel faces, hoops etc from China.... The wheels are assembled in the US, the components made in China.

Thats why so many of the same designs are passed around from company to company. They use the same suppliers overseas.


'Tis true. There are alot of no name wheel stores/companies out there with there so-called "own line" of wheels, because as you stated they order the wheel hoops and faces and assemble the wheels themsleves. They also offer a cheaper price which attracts guys who normally are not willing to spend the money or can't afford a quality set of HRE's, Forgeline's, Boze, etc. A person then buys these wheels because they have the look of the leading brand of 3-piece/forged wheel companies but lack the quality. The cheaper wheels leak from improper hoop assembly, peeling chrome, cheap grades of bolts used for the hoops that break and become missing and cheap grades of forged aluminum also. Not to upset anyone who has these, because hey...to each his own. But to name a few of the cheaper wheels are Sevas (which is no longer in business), Auto Monde and C3. Google them and see what I'm talking about.

[Sales@Dutchboys]

Well Im glad I got my wheels when I did. this sucks. I really like the style of all Fikse wheels.

Paul

[sixtnine]

Scott is THE MAN. Frank at Prodigy hooked me up with him and he has been GREAT to work with. Thanks again Frank and Scott.

[bonspeedbrad]

If you think thats disturbing, you're in for a surprise. The majority of 'forged wheel companies' out there are using the same suppliers of wheel faces, hoops etc from China.... The wheels are assembled in the US, the components made in China.

Thats why so many of the same designs are passed around from company to company. They use the same suppliers overseas.

bonspeed is now 14 years strong and we have always machined and assembled our wheels in the USA. Even our forgings are manufactured in the USA. We hope that everyone will continue to support the made in usa brands.

With years manufacturing our bonspeed brand and in the early 90's as an owner of Boyds Wheels we have the experience. We also just launched a new website at bonspeedWheels.com