Fikse wheels- never again

[NOPANTS68]

Well after 28 weeks, I still don't have a complete set of wheels. A couple of members here have asked me to throw up the story as to help other folks avoid what some of us have gone through. I have resisted doing so, but after today I'm over it all. Below are the facts- folks can draw their own conclusions from them.

Timeline

May 19th- I call Jon at Driverz and place the order for a set of FM5s for my wife's Chevelle as to take advantage of the wheel sale from Fikse. He offers a great deal on tires and insight on backspacing- I take advantage. He quotes me 6-8 weeks delivery time which has been the norm for the last 13 sets I have ordered for my cars in the past. I pay the 50% deposit and he emails me the invoice. Jon spent an hour of his time at the April GG Del Mar show with my wife so I felt my money was spent with the right vendor.

July 15th- I inquire about the wheels at 8 weeks just to try and plan my mock up stage. Jon contacts Fikse and finds them done and ready to ship. He charges me the balance and we agree that the travel time from Canada to him for tires to me will take an additional 2 weeks or so. I wait patiently.

July 26th- no tracking number, no wheels. I contact Jon at Driverz to find out he had not seen them yet. He follows up with Fikse.

August 5th- after several days of back and forth BS, the wheels still don't arrive at Driverz. I hear excuses like Canadian customs, shipping delays etc. I'm assured they will arrive any day. I wait patiently.

August 15th- after another week and a half of tennis with Jon, I call Fikse with limited succes. At this point I have missed my window for mock up and surrender my spot in the bodyshop to a 57 Chevy (who recieved his HREs in 5 weeks). I understand that Fikse can't disclose much about the situation and keeps refering me to my selling vendor for follow up. I do coerce out of the salesman that my wheels are still sitting there and have not been shipped. Fuming, I call Jon to see if infact they have been paid for by Driverz. Jon calls Fikse only to find out that the check he sent to Fikse for my wheels was incorrectly placed against someone else's order and shipped them out instead of my FM5s. Im assured Fikse will send them out immediately to Jon for tires and then routed to me asap. I wait patiently.

August 25th- no wheels still. No word from anyone. I call Jon to find out he has still not seen them. I wait patiently.

August 30th- I get tracking numbers from Jon.

August 31st- I open the last box only to find that the mounted wheel has flaws in the anodization and looks terrible. I decide to keep them after what it took to get them here, but the warden says otherwise. It's her car and it's my highest budget build yet (go figure). She correctly proclaims that for $1100 a corner, the finish needs to be consistent. She of course was right. I call Jon- he eats the freight-dismounts the tire-and sends it back to Fikse. At this point I own 3 wheels and feel like the fourth has been sent back into an abyss.

October 14th- I follow up from Jon to see where the fourth wheel is. He gets a quote from Fikse that it'll be here in 2 weeks. I wait patiently and wish I had ordered something else.

Today- no wheel- Jon had no answers from Fikse- I still only have 3 wheels and can't get the car out of the mock up stage.

I'm not willing to move the car to paint without seeing it on its wheels/tires and suspension loaded. A couple friends think I'm nuts, but that's the way I've built every one of my cars and have managed to avoid fitment troubles with radical combinations while others struggle with wheels on painted cars. Combining a 60s era car with Z06 brakes, custom wheels, and a lowered stance is too far of a risk to assume that this symphony of parts from dozens of vendors will work in harmony without actually seeing it happen.

At this point I totally regret my order. I have them up for sale not because I don't like the wheels, but rather that I don't want to run their product after all of the BS. I feel Driverz has been trapped in the middle and while I could blame them as the vendor, it would be foolish as that's not where the problem lies according to Jon. For those with millions, $4400 wheels isn't an issue. But for someone who works hard for his money I can tell you first hand that above timeline is not acceptable. The above can be supported by the 54 emails I have captured. For those in the market for wheels- be careful and avoid my situation. I have no idea when my fourth wheel will arrive and I don't think Jon does either. Guess we will see. I'll update when it arrives. Thanks for the space.

Dave

[camcojb]

I'm very sorry to hear this. I have an email into Fikse now, will post back.

[realcoray]

I had a similar experience although slightly shorter timeframe. I ordered mine late May, paid 100% up front and did not check on them until after around 11 weeks and they were supposed to ship that week

Two weeks later another call and they were supposed to be shipping again. I contacted Fikse directly and Danny was responsive but told Jon at Driverz that I had contacted him and he bristled at me contacting them directly. When thousands of dollars are on the line I'm going to contact whoever I please. The communication from Driverz was less than stellar and at the time I blamed them because I wasn't aware that so many people were having similar experiences with Fikse.

Eventually after like 15-16 weeks (read: 4 months) my wheels arrived and it was only then that I saw people, yourself included reporting having similar issues that I pinned it on Fikse.

I haven't really been delayed because of it but your post does make me want to double check the finishes on my wheels, as I have not even opened every box.

[JustinB]

Guys we completely understand the frustration with the Fikse orders. We are doing everything we can to get the orders out the door. If anyone has any questions, PLEASE call us. We are doing are best to keep everyone in the loop and are on the phone everyday with Fikse getting updates. We received another two sets today for Abdul Mulla and Sandra Duran and customers will be receiving tracking info shortly.

[DriverzInc]

Today's pallet included two sets. The set for a "Sandra Duran" in Texas, which did not need tires, and they shipped today. The second set on that pallet for "Abdul Mulla", will be getting tires mounted and balanced, and packaged and shipped. That will happen in the next two days.

Also a set for "Wesley Nemitz", Nitto tires (275's and 335's) will be mounted and balanced and shipped tomorrow (we talked to you on the phone today, and thanks for being so cool.)

As you can tell, we're doing everything we can to ship these things as quickly as they are received. And as Justin said, we've been in constant contact with Fikse as to when the next pallet of wheels will be arriving from their facility in Canada.

Yes, they are running late. Yes, they know it. And they are doing everything they can to get caught up. The main question is, are they delivering... and yes they are, but obviously tardy.

Fikse also has been in contact with some of our customer's direct, to try and ease concern, so that everyone understands, they will be getting their wheels, and to apologize for their tardiness, which I believe is a good thing, to "hear it from the horses mouth".

I hope that sheds some light out there for the remaining sets that are due from the sale. We have confidence that they will eventually arrive, though obviously tardy.

[camcojb]

thanks Jon/Justin. Appreciate all the effort guys.

[NOPANTS68]

Jon, while Fikse calling customers to "hear it from the horse's mouth" may be a positive- I never got that call. I instead had to babysit my order and be the pushing force just to get it even months after having paid in full. That's a joke after plopping down 4 grand. At this point the only phone call I want is to give the tracking number for my fourth wheel.

Just to be crystal clear, I have no beef with Jon's company. I created this thread after the being asked to by other Lat-G members to highlite the experience. I can only try to avoid the same ordeal when I order the new wheels for this car from another company.

[DriverzInc]

Dave, I totally understand, I just needatman he best I can, make sure my name, and my business doesn't get pulled through the mudd anymore than it already has, thanks for the clarification.

[MoparCar]

Yep,
I got the call (I'm Wes in the above thread post from Driverz) from Driverz this afternoon regarding my order shipping tomorrow. Yeah!

I'm excited to get them. I'll post some pics once I receive them.

Thanks Driverz (Jon). Sorry you guys got stuck in this. Maybe Fikse should get another CNC before their next big sale! :)

Wes

[Blake Foster]

i was at Fikse last week talking to the owner. the place is Jammed with CNC machines and lots of stuff going on, i have nothing to add as far as why the wait time might be extended, we have been talking to them about a couple private label wheels so to hear that the wait can be long is not encouraging BUT we all go through screw ups in receiving parts from suppliers and the best intentions can go sidways in a hurry.
hope everyone gets their orders filled soon.

[4mm]

Yep,
I got the call (I'm Wes in the above thread post from Driverz) from Driverz this afternoon regarding my order shipping tomorrow. Yeah!

I'm excited to get them. I'll post some pics once I receive them.

Thanks Driverz (Jon). Sorry you guys got stuck in this. Maybe Fikse should get another CNC before their next big sale! :)

Wes

So how long has it been since you placed your order? The reason I ask is because I'm a few weeks away from placing two orders for Fikse wheels and I don't want to wait 12 plus weeks.

[Ron in SoCal]

Lotta chatter on 'tech about this too:

I apologize to all for the delays any and all of you have experienced with your wheel orders. As I've tried to explain to everyone, we experienced a delay from our materials supplier which held up all of the orders we have in process. Furthermore, we're in the middle of trying to move our manufacturing facility to a new location, which hasn't helped our build times either. In any case, we're doing all we can to get all orders completed as quickly as possible without making any compromises to the quality of the final product.

When it comes to custom manufactured wheels, our lead times are truly only estimates, not guarantees. If we're given an absolute deadline by which a set of wheels are needed, we will either accept or deny that order based on our ability to complete it in the amount of time given. When we accept such a deadline, we never miss it. All other orders are completed as quickly as our available resources allow. Given that every one of our wheels is custom built to order, and we don't have full control over all variables that go into making the wheels (our materials suppliers, for example) we sometimes run into issues that cause delays. Combine that with the amount of orders that came in during our sale (roughly double the volume we normally see), and we've got a lot of work on our hands, especially since we're a smaller company.

Another way to think of it is like having a home built or remodeled. The contractor performs the work of building or remodeling the home, but they don't make the wood, appliances, or many of the other items that go into such a process and, hence, can't always fully control exactly how long it takes. If their lumber supplier brings them a full load of the wrong type of wood, they then have to reorder and wait for the new, correct load to arrive before they can do anything. Just an analogy that I thought might make our situation a little more understandable for some...

That being said, our customers are our number one priority, and we're working very hard to get your wheels built and sent to you. It's not something that's being overlooked or brushed off in any way - In lieu, it's a major stress and concern that we're running behind, and we're doing everything we possibly can to satisfy each and every one of your orders.

Your patience and understanding is greatly appreciated, and we thank you for your continued support of our small but rapidly growing company.

Sincerely and Respectfully,

Danny Goll

http://ls1tech.com/forums/15544191-post119.html

[Stuart Adams]

I don't know all the facts of this case.

With that said, every business needs to communicate to its customers exactly what is going on with its customers on order status or delays, etc.

If you want to stay in business there is just no other option. Especially in the information age we are in. Heck I had a computer built and the company (digital storm) e mailed me of every step from start to finish.

I want to see everybody prosper, there is no option guys.

[214Chevy]

Didn't Fikse go out of business last year and recently return? Just curious. If so, is the return under new ownership/management?

[Vegas69]

As usual, the truth would go a country mile. They put on a huge sale and didn't have the materials or man power to meet the promised deadline. I'll compare this to running for president. If you tell it like it is, you won't get elected. Same holds true here, if quoted 12-16 weeks, many would not have laid the change on the table. This is nothing new in the custom car or parts business.

[GNon18s]

I went through the same thing with Driverz inc/Fikse. waited something like 5 months. That sale wasn't even worth the hassle. Fikse having a huge back log of orders is one thing, but what really frustrated me was Driverz inc telling me lies every time I called about how my wheels are shipping in "a week or two". That was just a standard response to keep me happy and buy time. Driverz inc also billed my card for the full $5,300 @ two months before my wheels ever shipped! THEY BILLED MY CARD FULL PAYMENT AND NEVER EVEN SENT ME AN INVOICE. I found out only because my credit card contacted me to find out if it was legit!

[usa-69z]

yes , im another one caught up in this bull**** , im close to 4 months now and I paid in full. Im in Australia and it will cost me a lot of coin for shipping as well as more time. If this was known before hand i would not have placed an order . Ive only just now had contact after i posted a few times on here .
and if i get a 'dud ' wheel whats my chances of a fix ? none!

i did do my research on 'fikse' before i ordered and all i found was negative storys on there service from way back..Then i was told they have moved/changed managment and have appointed a 'new' sales guy to get the company back on track. After getting stuffed around by fikse i went to driverz as i didnt want to deal with them direct anymore.
and here i am nearly 4 months later ..:yes:

[MoparCar]

So how long has it been since you placed your order? The reason I ask is because I'm a few weeks away from placing two orders for Fikse wheels and I don't want to wait 12 plus weeks.

I initially started my order back in June, but I delayed it because of some back spacing issues I was working out (nothing to do with Driverz or Fikse). The order was completed with Driverz in the middle of July. I don't remember the exact date. They are FM5 Profil with race black centers if that matters.

I hope you get yours soon. I also knew they were a slow manufacturer going in. I sort of wonder if the race teams get the wheels first and the "street" customers second? Just a thought....They have a very big race following.

Wes

[LS1-IROC]

Glad I didn't order Fikse wheels!! I will say I did order a set of NewGens a couple months ago through Jon at Drivers and have been very happy to date with the transaction. Jon has always been there to answer my questions and lend an ear to some of my goofy ideas. At this point I would not hesiate to do business with them again.:cheers:

[HRBS]

Jon..... you know I am a big fan of you and your company. But every negative comment you recieve on this board revolves around Fikse and lead time issues. Why not cut your losses and stop distributing them ?
I know being the middle man is the hardest part of being in the retail business. You and Justin provide invaluable info for many in this hobby.

[ccracin]

Jon..... you know I am a big fan of you and your company. But every negative comment you recieve on this board revolves around Fikse and lead time issues. Why not cut your losses and stop distributing them ?
I know being the middle man is the hardest part of being in the retail business. You and Justin provide invaluable info for many in this hobby.

X2^ :cheers:

[DOOM]

As usual, the truth would go a country mile. They put on a huge sale and didn't have the materials or man power to meet the promised deadline. I'll compare this to running for president. If you tell it like it is, you won't get elected. Same holds true here, if quoted 12-16 weeks, many would not have laid the change on the table. This is nothing new in the custom car or parts business.

Well said Todd......

[camcojb]

I went through the same thing with Driverz inc/Fikse. waited something like 5 months. That sale wasn't even worth the hassle. Fikse having a huge back log of orders is one thing, but what really frustrated me was Driverz inc telling me lies every time I called about how my wheels are shipping in "a week or two". That was just a standard response to keep me happy and buy time. Driverz inc also billed my card for the full $5,300 @ two months before my wheels ever shipped! THEY BILLED MY CARD FULL PAYMENT AND NEVER EVEN SENT ME AN INVOICE. I found out only because my credit card contacted me to find out if it was legit!
I doubt you've ever been a dealer for a product. I have, so I wanted to post this. You blame Jon for saying "two more weeks" and for billing your card two months before the wheels shipped. How do you know that he was not told "two more weeks" from Fikse? How do you know he wasn't told the wheels were done or almost so and had to make full payment to Fikse, so he charged you?

The answer is you don't know that. I have seen this exact scenario countless times. The manufacturer says something is in stock, or will be shipped in two weeks, so you pass that info onto your customer. When it doesn't happen the dealer gets the blame, when he had no real control, he was just repeating what he was told. If you can tell me why any dealer would want to lie about when a product will be received, knowing that it will blow up in his face, I'd love to hear it. I can only think of one reason for a dealer to do that, and that's if he's spent the money you gave him on something else, and has not ordered your parts at all. But that is clearly not the case here, as it's obvious that Fikse had problems getting materials (which they admitted in that post) and has taken the blame for the slow delivery and not keeping promises.

I hate to see Drivers Inc get blame for this situation when they are not at fault.

[NOPANTS68]

Jody, I totally agree which is why I clarified at the end of my post. Blaming the dealer is pretty short sided in this scenario since he was simply cascading what he had heard from fikse. I have no reason to think anything he said was untrue, but unfortunately that doesnt make wheels magically appear. The missapropriation of my money against someone else's order seems unlikely, but that's the story I've been told. Even after the discovery of the issue it still took months to get them. If the game is to quote short delivery times just to capture order dollars because that's "normal" for custom parts, then companies that follow such practices will fail. The wheel landscape grows more competitive every month. Just ask Jon.

[DriverzInc]

I doubt you've ever been a dealer for a product. I have, so I wanted to post this. You blame Jon for saying "two more weeks" and for billing your card two months before the wheels shipped. How do you know that he was not told "two more weeks" from Fikse? How do you know he wasn't told the wheels were done or almost so and had to make full payment to Fikse, so he charged you?

The answer is you don't know that. I have seen this exact scenario countless times. The manufacturer says something is in stock, or will be shipped in two weeks, so you pass that info onto your customer. When it doesn't happen the dealer gets the blame, when he had no real control, he was just repeating what he was told. If you can tell me why any dealer would want to lie about when a product will be received, knowing that it will blow up in his face, I'd love to hear it. I can only think of one reason for a dealer to do that, and that's if he's spent the money you gave him on something else, and has not ordered your parts at all. But that is clearly not the case here, as it's obvious that Fikse had problems getting materials (which they admitted in that post) and has taken the blame for the slow delivery and not keeping promises.

I hate to see Drivers Inc get blame for this situation when they are not at fault.

Thanks Jody, wish more people understood it from the above point of view. I'm actually so sick and tired of it, I've almost decided to close up shop this year... but instead I started NewGen Wheels in hopes of moving away from dealing with everyone else s shenanigans. We reiterate the same information that is given to us, and when it doesn't get delivered on, we're to blame, and when the customer cancels the order, or even worse, waits for the wheels to arrive on their door step, and then sends them back (which has already happened... twice) who ends up eating the 3500 bucks per set, and shipping? .... you guessed it. Me.

[camcojb]

Thanks Jody, wish more people understood it from the above point of view. I'm actually so sick and tired of it, I've almost decided to close up shop this year... but instead I started NewGen Wheels in hopes of moving away from dealing with everyone else s shenanigans. We reiterate the same information that is given to us, and when it doesn't get delivered on, we're to blame, and when the customer cancels the order, or even worse, waits for the wheels to arrive on their door step, and then sends them back (which has already happened... twice) who ends up eating the 3500 bucks per set, and shipping? .... you guessed it. Me.I get it Jon. Been self-employed for 25 years, several of them when I owned my speed shop back in the early 80's. I dealt with exactly what you do. I also spent 12 years before that in high performance retail and wholesale, handling problems, warranties, shipping issues directly with the big manufacturers. If a person hasn't done this they have no idea what you go through.

[JON Q]

Hey Jon, this Jon from Houston, the Sandra Duran order is my order. I did get a call from you guys yesterday about my order being shipped to me.. I put my order on 07/06/11 I know it took a while and guess what I am happy with your customer service and understand that maybe Fikse should had posted about running behind.. I am in the residential and commercial Ac and Heating distribution business and I know that contractors can go anywhere to buy products and equipment, but what keeps them doing business with you, is the customer service you provide, that is what makes a successful business and of course great products, lol!!!
Fikse being the manufacture should had stepped in and explained the situation and perhaps given you Driverz Inc an additional discount for the troubles.. Can't wait to recieve my Profile 5S race black wheels. Once again thanks Jon for your great customer service:cheers:
By the way, any one who wants a discount on AC & heating for your Hot Rod garage, let me know, :lol:

[Spiffav8]

Thanks Jody, wish more people understood it from the above point of view. I'm actually so sick and tired of it, I've almost decided to close up shop this year... but instead I started NewGen Wheels in hopes of moving away from dealing with everyone else s shenanigans. We reiterate the same information that is given to us, and when it doesn't get delivered on, we're to blame, and when the customer cancels the order, or even worse, waits for the wheels to arrive on their door step, and then sends them back (which has already happened... twice) who ends up eating the 3500 bucks per set, and shipping? .... you guessed it. Me.

Jon...You run a quality business and you have a outstanding reputation in the community. I am happy to call you my friend....and I don't even see you that often. Don't worry about those who don't understand or are out just to bash. The number of satisfied customers wins 10 times over. Sadly, you just don't hear from them as much as the others.

:cheers:

[GNon18s]

I paid Driverz inc. $50 extra to NOT MOUNT one of my rear tires so It would be easier to use for mock up. The $50 was for shipping a 5th pacckge (3 mounted n balanced, one rim only, one tire only). ...Guess how they showed up. FOUR tires mounted and balanced! Now my mock up tire has a $1,000 wheel inside of it and weighs 70+ lbs. I didnt even contact them about the fifty because I just wanted to forget about this whole transaction and hope the rest of my build goes much smoother. ..Sorry if I offended Driverz inc. or there buddies. After all, I didn't start this thread.

[GNon18s]

FWIW, I think my wheels look pretty good now that they are finally here!:thumbsup: I always think Fikses look good as long as the sizing is rite. I've also seen some being put through their paces at the track on some all-out race cars.:unibrow:

[72Z/28]

Today's pallet included two sets. The set for a "Sandra Duran" in Texas, which did not need tires, and they shipped today. The second set on that pallet for "Abdul Mulla", will be getting tires mounted and balanced, and packaged and shipped. That will happen in the next two days.

Also a set for "Wesley Nemitz", Nitto tires (275's and 335's) will be mounted and balanced and shipped tomorrow (we talked to you on the phone today, and thanks for being so cool.)

As you can tell, we're doing everything we can to ship these things as quickly as they are received. And as Justin said, we've been in constant contact with Fikse as to when the next pallet of wheels will be arriving from their facility in Canada.

Yes, they are running late. Yes, they know it. And they are doing everything they can to get caught up. The main question is, are they delivering... and yes they are, but obviously tardy.

Fikse also has been in contact with some of our customer's direct, to try and ease concern, so that everyone understands, they will be getting their wheels, and to apologize for their tardiness, which I believe is a good thing, to "hear it from the horses mouth".

I hope that sheds some light out there for the remaining sets that are due from the sale. We have confidence that they will eventually arrive, though obviously tardy.

Jon I am glad to hear from you that the wheels are at your shop now. Exactly as per your promise last week:thumbsup: I really appreciate your great customer service and
I am going to be happier once I receive my Technipolish FM5s/KDW2s.:D :D

[JustinB]

edited.

[JustinB]

Justin (GNon18s), I just pulled all your paper work and you were not charged an extra $50 to ship a tire off the wheel. We charged you the flat shipping fee we charge every customer to ship to the East Coast and we even mounted and balanced the set for free. I also see no mention in the notes to ship a tire off the wheel. If there was a mix up, I apologize. If there is something I am missing, please give me a call and I will get it straightened out.

[tmadden]

Thank you Forgeline

[JON Q]

UPS just pulled in into the building to deliver my Fikse Profil 5S wheels, they were shipped by Driverz Tuesday afternoon and got here to Houston.
They look Awesome, polished with race black center...
Thanks Jon and Justin :cheers:

[6D9 Matt]

I was hoping to get a set of Fikses in the next year or two... so hopefully they will have all this lined out by then. I will have to do some research before I pull the trigger.

[Flash68]

These threads show me that once it's time for my new wheels, I may not necessarily pick the wheels that are #1 on my list.

[pro66tour]

Jon..... you know I am a big fan of you and your company. But every negative comment you recieve on this board revolves around Fikse and lead time issues. Why not cut your losses and stop distributing them ?
I know being the middle man is the hardest part of being in the retail business. You and Justin provide invaluable info for many in this hobby.

I SECOND THAT ALL DAY LONG! :thumbsup:

Joe.

[John510]

I feel your pain. My wheels took longer then 28 weeks (Asanti).

[kovert]

im in the same boat ... i ordered a set for the shop car and to get a wholesale accnt to distribute for fikse.. i ordered them when the sale was happening it was quite a long time ago i still don't have wheels but am assured it won't be long!! i was told there going through some changes.. i know they layed off a few people .. hope they fix whatever is wrong cause they make a great product it just needs to be reliable build times.

[JMitch19]

I was in the same boat as you guys. My order was at 16 weeks last tuesday. I work for a automotive aftermarket manufacture(not wheels). I know delays happen. Driverz Inc hasn't done anything wrong imo. When the delays were going on I told Jon I just want the wheels to be right. On time would be nice, but I want them to be right.

As of Wednesday my Fikse order was cancelled, and I am going in another direction. Driverz Inc. is taking care me on my new order. I wouldn't have had a problem waiting for my Fikse order, but I didn't like the two more weeks, two more weeks, two more weeks game. If when my original 8 week order deadline past Fikse would have asked for another 8 weeks I probably wouldn't have had a big problem with it. I live in Michigan and my car season is over anyway. My wheels were suppose to ship next week. The problem is I've heard that before. Simply do what you say you are going to do. If I felt like Fikse would have kept their word and my wheels would be shipping next week I probably wouldn't have cancelled the order.

I'm excited about my new order and the changes that will be done to the car to make them fit. Thanks for the second chance to make the right decision the first time.

[greg5436]

After reading all the posts this reminds me of a prodigy custom order,but I have to give props to Driverz Inc for at least putting your orders in when you placed your order. Greg

[Beegs]

I was in the same boat as you guys. My order was at 16 weeks last tuesday. I work for a automotive aftermarket manufacture(not wheels). I know delays happen. Driverz Inc hasn't done anything wrong imo. When the delays were going on I told Jon I just want the wheels to be right. On time would be nice, but I want them to be right.

As of Wednesday my Fikse order was cancelled, and I am going in another direction. Driverz Inc. is taking care me on my new order. I wouldn't have had a problem waiting for my Fikse, but I didn't like the two more weeks, two more weeks, two more weeks game. If when my original 8 week order deadline past Fikse would have asked for another 8 weeks I probably wouldn't have had a big problem with it. I live in Michigan and my car season is over anyway. My wheels were suppose to ship next week. The problem is I've heard that before. Simply do what you say you are going to do. If I felt like Fikse would have kept their word and my wheels would being shipping next week I probably wouldn't have cancelled the order.

I'm excited about my new order and the changes that will be done to the car to make them fit. Thanks for the second chance to make the right decision the first time.

Well said :yes:

[elitecustombody]

Thank you Forgeline


Ditto!

We got Forgelines for Fernando's new CTS-V literally in 2 weeks,no joke.

I guess I will never understand why people like Fikse so much,when there are many other wheel makers with much faster build time. :_paranoid

[JMitch19]

Ditto!

We got Forgelines for Fernando's new CTS-V literally in 2 weeks,no joke.

I guess I will never understand why people like Fikse so much,when there are many other wheel makers with much faster build time. :_paranoid

I think part of the problem is that no one expected it to take 16+ weeks. When someone tells me 6-8 weeks I assume they are going to deliver. When they said "two more weeks" I figured okay no biggie. When they said "two more weeks" a second time I was like wtf... Oh well, what's another two weeks. When they didn't follow through for the third time I jumped ship. I'm now playing for team Forgeline!! They said 2-3 weeks build the wheels. They will ship to Driverz Inc for mounting and balancing. Driverz Inc will then ship them to me. We are shooting for 4-5 weeks from date of order to my door.

[bigtime]

Ditto!
I guess I will never understand why people like Fikse so much,when there are many other wheel makers with much faster build time. :_paranoid

because the wheels are so dam nice when you get them!

[elitecustombody]

because the wheels are so dam nice when you get them!

Can you define "so dam nice "? Their huge lineup of the whole 5 styles,that's been around for 20 years? Or the quality the OP has experienced?

[bigtime]

Can you define "so dam nice "? Their huge lineup of the whole 5 styles,that's been around for 20 years? Or the quality the OP has experienced?

Both.:thumbsup: I happen to really like the 20 year old styles versus some other wheels where people will do anything to try and be different. The quality on the 2 sets I own is second to none.

[cencalc6]

Can you define "so dam nice "? Their huge lineup of the whole 5 styles,that's been around for 20 years? Or the quality the OP has experienced?

Another reason why people go with Fikse wheels is because they are alot cheaper then other manufactures....

[elitecustombody]

Both.:thumbsup: I happen to really like the 20 year old styles versus some other wheels where people will do anything to try and be different. The quality on the 2 sets I own is second to none.

Ask OP why he sent one wheel back

[elitecustombody]

Another reason why people go with Fikse wheels is because they are alot cheaper then other manufactures....

Hmm.. A lot cheaper than what other manufacturers?How much did you pay for yours?

[6D9 Matt]

Fact is... I am buying wheels based on the STYLE I like, and the quality. Obviously if someone likes the Fikse styles (I do as well) I maybe wouldnt care to wait longer in order to get what I want. Now this is a situation that obviously has been dragged out (and not acceptable), but I havent heard this happening often with Fikse.

Just saying... its whatever EACH consumer wants. Sure Fikse has a small amount of models to choose from compared to a lot of wheel manufacturers, but doesnt that speak volumes of how successful they are then?

Just saying... Id rather wait 8-10+ weeks for some Fikses that I want, rather than settle for some other wheel manufacturer that will get them to me in 4-5 weeks.

[Flash68]

Hmm.. A lot cheaper than what other manufacturers?How much did you pay for yours?

He is likely referring to their new retail pricing. They used to be pretty spendy average $4k+ per set, but now are about $1k cheaper since new management/ownership got it. At least this is what I have seen.

[usa-69z]

im sill waitin' 7/19th :willy:

please when these do turn up ,check and re-check for any marks or flaws as i dont want mine sent to me and have to play around sending 1 back to be replaced.. from Oz

[4mm]

Both.:thumbsup: I happen to really like the 20 year old styles versus some other wheels where people will do anything to try and be different. The quality on the 2 sets I own is second to none.

Fact is... I am buying wheels based on the STYLE I like, and the quality.


Just saying... Id rather wait 8-10+ weeks for some Fikses that I want, rather than settle for some other wheel manufacturer that will get them to me in 4-5 weeks.



I tend to agree with bigtime and 6D9 Matt. I have owned two sets of Fikse plus many Forgeline and HRE. My favorite multi-piece wheel is Fikse, in monoblok style it is HRE.

I am willing to wait the extra long time to receive the wheels as long as I am told BEFORE purchasing how long the actual wait will be. It's always better to underpromise and overdeliver than conversely.

[nacnac]

I was hoping to get a set of Fikses in the next year or two... so hopefully they will have all this lined out by then. I will have to do some research before I pull the trigger.

Are you insane? You think this problem is going away? From what I'm reading, it's Fikse's standard operating procedure. The guy from Fikse said it himself, you get them when you get them. We're busy, blah blah blah. If you give us a deadline, we decide if we'll take the order, blah blah blah. I'd rn from these guys. There are way too many wheel company's out there that I'm sure would provide better service. And like another guy said, Jon, why don't you just stop selling their stuff if it's too much of a hassle? You're not doing it for free so the hassles must be worth the money you're making. Right?

[Vegas69]

Since it's now common knowledge, going down this path is a personal decision. They have some super sexy, lightweight wheels. They will probably continue quoting 6-8 weeks. If I was to order, I'd bank on 12-16 which is hard to swallow. Forgeline offers such great service. As much as I like the Fikse, after the sale support can be just as important. I KNOW Forgeline is there for me.

They do have a new owner and a reduction in pricing. Quantity and lower pricing may be a bad business decision. I hate to say it but quality may be the next hit. I've seen it first hand in this industry. They lower margins, need higher production, piss off clients, over work employees, and you can guess what comes next. I'd raise my prices until I can meet demand. If thing get slow, run a sale.

[LS1-IROC]

Fikse sure is getting bad mouthed over on Tech right now. You'd have to be insane to order wheels from them now. Too many high end wheel manufactures out there to be hooked on one brand. I hope they get their act together and get this ironed out cause by the sounds of it, they are losing current orders and future business.

[usa-69z]

yes and so they should :mad:

[nacnac]

gotta love the free market system.

[Nova-Mann]

I just talked to Alan Baylis yesturday about the same issues I'm reading about here. He was saying that the forged centers were the issue and that there have been changes in the CNC programs that have held up production. I guess I have to take him at his word and pray to God that the quality of the product has not diminished due to the changes. It has been 15 weeks yesturday that I placed the order, and Alan thought production on the centers should start in a week or so. I want to give them the benefit of the doubt here, so we'll see.

[bigtime]

I just talked to Alan Baylis yesturday about the same issues I'm reading about here. He was saying that the forged centers were the issue and that there have been changes in the CNC programs that have held up production. I guess I have to take him at his word and pray to God that the quality of the product has not diminished due to the changes. It has been 15 weeks yesturday that I placed the order, and Alan thought production on the centers should start in a week or so. I want to give them the benefit of the doubt here, so we'll see.

what wheels did you order?

[GregWeld]

I'd have canceled the order a long time ago.... And I'd have demanded my money back or jerked it back via the credit card... and would have ordered from somewhere else.

[bigtime]

i think what a lot of peole miss here is what if you really wanted a wheel they make and nobody else does? I wanted FM5 classics so what should i do if they take longer than expected?

[GregWeld]

There's like 10,000 DIFFERENT sets of wheels out there.... and today -- many of them look alike - and many are equal to or better than a Fikse... I don't want to start a nit picking argument about which one and blah blah blah --- but SUPPORTING vendors that don't do what they should be doing - just continues that problem for OTHERS... and the only way to show disapproval of that way of doing business is to stop doing business with them.

The definition of insanity -- doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results.

[elitecustombody]

i think what a lot of peole miss here is what if you really wanted a wheel they make and nobody else does? I wanted FM5 classics so what should i do if they take longer than expected?

I'm sure if you have the money, you can always find a company that can make you any wheel you want.

[bigtime]

I'm sure if you have the money, you can always find a company that can make you any wheel you want.

thats not realistic but accurate

[Coursey]

This story sounds the same as what I went through with my Billet Specialties order.

[Nova-Mann]

I ordered the mach5 in 17x8 and 17x11. I decided to go with the anodized center and polished outer. The quality better be there!

[Nova-Mann]

Wow Greg! That's an impressive #. How many keyboards have you gone through?:lol:

[usa-69z]

I just talked to Alan Baylis yesturday about the same issues I'm reading about here. He was saying that the forged centers were the issue and that there have been changes in the CNC programs that have held up production. I guess I have to take him at his word and pray to God that the quality of the product has not diminished due to the changes. It has been 15 weeks yesturday that I placed the order, and Alan thought production on the centers should start in a week or so. I want to give them the benefit of the doubt here, so we'll see.

production of the centers should begin in a WEEK OR SO !!!

thats assurance for ya ! i feel sooo much better now :hail:

im goin on 16 weeks now and getting pretty close to cancelling unless i get the call/email in the next week :mad: :mad: :mad:

[Nova-Mann]

I may have to reconsider myself.

[usa-69z]

I'd have canceled the order a long time ago.... And I'd have demanded my money back or jerked it back via the credit card... and would have ordered from somewhere else.


would they try & hit us up with a cancelation fee ?????,,

surely not , If the wheels havnt even been started and not delivered on time its everyones right.

im keen to hear what everyone thinks of this.

[nacnac]

production of the centers should begin in a WEEK OR SO !!!

thats assurance for ya ! i feel sooo much better now :hail:

im goin on 16 weeks now and getting pretty close to cancelling unless i get the call/email in the next week :mad: :mad: :mad:

I think the key word here is "should". I think you can interchange it with other words like "hope" or "might" or maybe two words like "might not". They've been so full of excuses up til now, what's a few more?

[71RS/SS396]

Threads like this are why I ordered my wheels from Formula 43 via DSE. Similar wheel, cost less, and 3 week delivery.

http://www.formula43.com/

[GregWeld]

^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^


EXACTLY what I was saying above.... why would anyone pay in full in advance and wait weeks and weeks and get no answers and no product....

[Sparks67]

^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^


EXACTLY what I was saying above.... why would anyone pay in full in advance and wait weeks and weeks and get no answers and no product....

It is a common problem with Group Purchases. People get a great price, but have to wait. I ordered some Baer Extreme 6S from TByne motorsports it took 5 months for the brakes. Cost was really low. I talked to several vendors and they all said that they couldn't do the same brake for that price. Every Group purchase there is always a long wait. Be prepared to wait months, and it doesn't matter on the vendor. Now my Fiske Wheels only took 3 week, but that was the old Fiske.

Jeff

[GregWeld]

Jeff -- Good info - but I'm pretty sure this was just a "factory authorized sale" not a group sale.

[JMitch19]

It is a common problem with Group Purchases. People get a great price, but have to wait. I ordered some Baer Extreme 6S from TByne motorsports it took 5 months for the brakes. Cost was really low. I talked to several vendors and they all said that they couldn't do the same brake for that price. Every Group purchase there is always a long wait. Be prepared to wait months, and it doesn't matter on the vendor. Now my Fiske Wheels only took 3 week, but that was the old Fiske.

Jeff

Problem is it wasn't advertied as a group purchase. They did not state that they needed a minimum number of orders to make the discount happen. After the "sale" was over they lowered retail pricing to almost the same prices as the "sale" prices.

Rumor has it another custom wheel company that doesn't have a problem delivering orders on time is willing to take your order at the same price if you switch.:_paranoid

[GregWeld]

would they try & hit us up with a cancelation fee ?????,,

surely not , If the wheels havnt even been started and not delivered on time its everyones right.

im keen to hear what everyone thinks of this.


There are "consumer laws" that probably come into play here - no delivery of the actual product should be a "way out" of the transaction and I'd certainly check that out.

[NOPANTS68]

I looked into it earlier on in the waiting process. According to my bank Visa has a stipulation that only covers the credit back within the first 90 days. I blew past that long ago so I was stuck. I wasn't planning on going that route since during that period I was told they were going to be delivered every other day. By the time they came I was well outside that window.

Greg, it was a half up front "sale deal ". I paid the balance when Jon charged my card for the remaining half indicating that they were shipping. According to driverz, Fikse shipped someone else's wheels instead of mine. Still five weeks later, no wheels.

Update as of Friday- no replacement wheel yet. Called driverz but no response there so I called Fikse. Spoke with Allen and he explained that they were forced to make a new wheel since the anodizing wouldn't cooperate. FWIW, Allen was very apologetic and forthcoming. He explained where the failure was and I believe he was sincere when he said he would do what he could to get me my wheel. They will be sold upon its arrival.

[GregWeld]

Well -- sadly -- the way I see it -- neither seller nor manufacturer has done what's right for YOU. And I'd let what's been said - and the ACTIONS (or non-actions) speak for themselves. Buyer beware.

I've owned and operated large wholesale companies.... we ALWAYS interceded on the behalf of the customer. When you don't do that as a company - you loose customers. And you loose the honor of your word. I don't think either of these companies are that big that you should have fallen through the cracks...

I once had a 20' container of much needed goods actually fall off the ship... it was critical that our customers get the merchandise they ordered or loose the season... We air freighted replacements of those goods directly to the customer (from England!) at a HUGE expense... But the larger expense would have been to lose those customers, and suffer the secondary loses in the marketplace of being branded a company that couldn't deliver.

Once they had your money - they had you over a barrel...

I always made dang sure my salespeople understood that getting a customer was easy - and making a sale was easy... The reputation was made AFTER the sale and when things went to poo in a hand basket. How it gets handled is what really counts and what is remembered long after the sale.

[JustinB]

Nopant68, Friday was a bad day for us at the shop and I apologize for not getting back to you. Jon had to pick a car up in Simi Valley and I was stuck at a dentist getting some teeth pulled.

We are all over Fikse pushing and pushing to get all our outstanding orders out the door. We are in contact with Fikse every single day getting updates and pushing and pushing. I can yell tell I am blue in the face but unfortunately it is not going to fix the giant mess we are stuck in. If you have questions, please call, email, or pm me and we can discuss what we need to do.

[usa-69z]

Nopant68, Friday was a bad day for us at the shop and I apologize for not getting back to you. Jon had to pick a car up in Simi Valley and I was stuck at a dentist getting some teeth pulled.

We are all over Fikse pushing and pushing to get all our outstanding orders out the door. We are in contact with Fikse every single day getting updates and pushing and pushing. I can yell tell I am blue in the face but unfortunately it is not going to fix the giant mess we are stuck in. If you have questions, please call, email, or pm me and we can discuss what we need to do.

no mention on a cancelation fee???

c'mon Justin whats the deal?

[JustinB]

I not sure what you are talking about in a cancellation fee. Give me a call on Monday and we can figure out a way to make you happy.


no mention on a cancelation fee???

c'mon Justin whats the deal?

[DOOM]

Well -- sadly -- the way I see it -- neither seller nor manufacturer has done what's right for YOU. And I'd let what's been said - and the ACTIONS (or non-actions) speak for themselves. Buyer beware.

I've owned and operated large wholesale companies.... we ALWAYS interceded on the behalf of the customer. When you don't do that as a company - you loose customers. And you loose the honor of your word. I don't think either of these companies are that big that you should have fallen through the cracks...

I once had a 20' container of much needed goods actually fall off the ship... it was critical that our customers get the merchandise they ordered or loose the season... We air freighted replacements of those goods directly to the customer (from England!) at a HUGE expense... But the larger expense would have been to lose those customers, and suffer the secondary loses in the marketplace of being branded a company that couldn't deliver.

Once they had your money - they had you over a barrel...

I always made dang sure my salespeople understood that getting a customer was easy - and making a sale was easy... The reputation was made AFTER the sale and when things went to poo in a hand basket. How it gets handled is what really counts and what is remembered long after the sale.

Greg well said!! I agree 100%

[DriverzInc]

Wait how did this turn into me not trying to help Greg? David had a problem with his wheel, so I sent it back to Fikse to be refinished. It's not my fault they took extra time to fix it is it? Friday was a horrible day to get a hold of me, while most of the country enjoyed a day off, I put in a 12 hour day picking up a car in Simi and working like a dog. I did call and email Alan Friday morning about Dave's replacement wheel and received an email later that evening in return. And if you read the entire thread, us as a seller have tried very hard to keep every Fikse customers of ours as much in the loop as possible. We've even switched a few of the pending orders to other wheels to help get them rolling in the next 4 weeks.

This Fikse thing is going to be the death of me.... Everyone's going to forget how hard we've worked for you all over the past 5 yrs, and remember us as the dealer who went out of business because they couldn't absorb all the chargebacks when A manufacturer they sold didn't deliver on time.

I quit. I just can't make everyone happy fast enough anymore.

[ccracin]

Jon,

I think it is clear you definitely ARE working very hard to keep your customers happy. I just think Fikse is working harder trying to disappoint your customers. If it were me I would not take one more order for a Fikse wheel. When you clear your books of this mess, I would be done with them. You work too hard to have them take you down! Hang in there! :thumbsup:

[JMitch19]

I'm one of Jon's customers that jumped ship on Fikse and went with Forgelines. Driverz Inc. handled everything for me. The only hard time I had was picking another wheel has I liked as much as the one I cancelled my order on. I spend almost an entire day running around SEMA like a mad man looking at the wheel/tire combo on every first gen there. JCG's Project Blue Balls helped me close the deal on going Forgeline. Ended up ordering the new GZ3 which is similar to the ZX3 on Blue Balls but different enough I didn't feel like a copy cat.

[eddiep]

I not sure what you are talking about in a cancellation fee. Give me a call on Monday and we can figure out a way to make you happy.

Really? I got a letter from you guys Friday saying you were hitting me with a $1k restocking/shipping fee, and sure enough, my credit card was ran for the amount in the letter on Nov. 8.

Yes, I'm one of the two people Jon mentioned earlier that canceled their order. Pretty sure I know who the other guy is, too (heh, we have a PM/email support group for all the people that got in on this deal); if it's the same guy I'm thinking of, he was fed up with the run around and put in a dispute via his CC, and they responded by trying to immediately send him 3 wheels ... the 4th I suppose was to be sent later on when it was finished. I'm assuming he wasn't ok with that.

I wish no ill-will on the DriverzInc/Fikse people. If Fikse wasn't running so far behind, I think my experience with DriverzInc would have been very positive. They seemed very knowledgeable and friendly, and were reasonably responsive when I would check it with my order (although I never got any information that was of any real value). Problem was I, along with everyone else, was told again and again 'any day now' or 'just 1 more week', when that was never the case. One of my first calls I talked to Justin and mentioned seeing that NoPants waited 16 weeks for his, and if I should expect the same on my wheels. He told me people will say all kinds of stuff on the internet. I guess we know now who was blowing smoke and who was telling it like it was. All I want was someone to be honest with me; I know the vendors are in a tough spot when stuff like this happens, but the answer is not to just tell people what they wanted to hear and hide behind 'but that's what the manf. is telling me' crap. When the early orders were taking 4 months, you guys should have been contacting folks and setting their expectations accordingly - at least telling them that was a possibility instead of 'just a few more days'.

Anyway, I ordered at the end of June. There is a limit on how long you have recourse on charges, and I didn't want to be on the hook for $3k+ if something crazy happens like Driverz or Fikse goes belly up before my order is fulfilled. Seen it happen plenty of times, and the latest update I had heard from Driverz was that Fikse suffered an equipment malfunction on the machine that makes the hoops (I'm seeing other excuses posted in the public forums for the delay, but I haven't seen this one?). Anyway, I told my bank I still wanted the wheels if Driverz will come through with their latest estimate for shipping them. Bank calls me back several days later we conferenced in Jon to see where we are at on things. He says no worries, the wheels are shipping today. I said great, just send me proof, and I told my bank rep that I would consider this matter resolved if they get me a tracking number. Jon forwards me an email from Fikse later that day where they say they are shipping my order, but there is no tracking number. I replied that I needed a tracking number. John says there is no tracking number, it shipped freight and it will be 5 days before it gets to us. He then said he will get a copy of the shipping documents. 5 days pass and I never heard anything back from him. I then told Jon I haven't heard a peep from you guys, forget the shipping docs because you already have my wheels, right? Nope! These are coming from Canada, and it could take several more days. I say send me a scan of the shipping documentation (you know, the one that was promised to me last week) today please. He gave me a sarcastic 'sure, I'll call up Canada! I just got back from driving all over So. Cal picking up wheels' ... WTF, you were supposed to be calling Fikse this whole time to check in on our orders, you even told me the week before that you'd get a scan of the waybill, but suddenly its some impossible task because you've had a busy morning driving around (keep in mind this is only like 2pm in the afternoon for him)? By this point I've reached my breaking point, called the bank and said I no longer want to deal with these jokers, please cancel the order.

And through all of this, somehow the customer is at fault and you need to slap them with a $1k restocking fee? This was already the worst buying experience I've ever had BEFORE the cancelation fee - way to raise the bar.

[JustinB]

removed.

[eddiep]

Justin,

You think that makes what you guys did ok?

Regardless, the bank should have notified you guys the day I canceled the charge, which was a week before you guys got them. I told them about my last correspondence with Jon, where he was disrespectful and made it clear he had no intention of following through with his promise to send the shipping documentation. The bank agreed to follow up with you guys and was placing the call to you right then and there (again, a full week before they shipped) - I told them I felt I was no longer on speaking terms with Driverz and didn't want to be conferenced in on the call, and they said fine, we'll take care of it.


Eddie,

After the conversation with your bank and you agreed to proceed, you never notified us that you cancelled your order or charged back the cost. Instead, you let us ship the wheels all over the country and back trying to get them to you in the discussed time frame only to find out you refused them once they showed up on your door.

[camcojb]

I looked into it earlier on in the waiting process. According to my bank Visa has a stipulation that only covers the credit back within the first 90 days. I blew past that long ago so I was stuck. I wasn't planning on going that route since during that period I was told they were going to be delivered every other day. By the time they came I was well outside that window.

Greg, it was a half up front "sale deal ". I paid the balance when Jon charged my card for the remaining half indicating that they were shipping. According to driverz, Fikse shipped someone else's wheels instead of mine. Still five weeks later, no wheels.

Update as of Friday- no replacement wheel yet. Called driverz but no response there so I called Fikse. Spoke with Allen and he explained that they were forced to make a new wheel since the anodizing wouldn't cooperate. FWIW, Allen was very apologetic and forthcoming. He explained where the failure was and I believe he was sincere when he said he would do what he could to get me my wheel. They will be sold upon its arrival.
Alan at Fikse is handling this now, he originally took the order. Danny is no longer with Fikse.

Let me know what happens please.

[JustinB]

Eddie,

I am not looking to get into a argument with you on the forums. I was not on the phone the last time Jon and yourself spoke so I can not comment on the conversation. I know he was trying to get some kind of proof of the shipment from Fikse who had to contact their freight company. We received the wheels and assumed we were all on the same page with the previously discussed time frame and shipped the wheels to you. You nor your bank ever contacted us and let us know you had charged back the wheels. We shipped them out to you, and only found out they had been charged back when they were returned to us. Eddie you act as if we were holding you wheels ransom. We are up Fikses rear trying to get everyone their wheels. We do not make these wheels, we extended the sales price, did all the custom fitment, and in the end had to eat several thousand dollars because Fikse ran behind and we were unable to get a freight company to send us proof of shipment.

[usa-69z]

guys , im sure Bayliss is reading these threads ,,

how about telling your side of the story Alan instead of Jon & Justin taking all the heat.

id like to know from either partys , were orders held back until a 'quota' was reached ?

In that 'quota' was there a deal for free shipping from fikse to driverz?

:yes:

[eddiep]

I'm not arguing, only posting my experience in this mess and venting here. If you think I'm acing like Driverz was holding my wheels hostage, then you're missing my point entirely.

Eddie,

I am not looking to get into a argument with you on the forums. I was not on the phone the last time Jon and yourself spoke so I can not comment on the conversation. I know he was trying to get some kind of proof of the shipment from Fikse who had to contact their freight company. We received the wheels and assumed we were all on the same page with the previously discussed time frame and shipped the wheels to you. You nor your bank ever contacted us and let us know you had charged back the wheels. We shipped them out to you, and only found out they had been charged back when they were returned to us. Eddie you act as if we were holding you wheels ransom. We are up Fikses rear trying to get everyone their wheels. We do not make these wheels, we extended the sales price, did all the custom fitment, and in the end had to eat several thousand dollars because Fikse ran behind and we were unable to get a freight company to send us proof of shipment.

[elitecustombody]

I feel sorry for Jon and Justin..You guys just need to stick with companies with better turnaround time and keep doing what you do. It's not worth the headache and loss of many potential customers .

[JON Q]

Thanks Jon and Justin:thumbsup: , got my Fikse's bout 3weeks ago, just now waiting on my DSE quadra to come in so I can put on my 18x12 race black profile 5s...:woot:

Jon

[XcYZ]

I called Alan at Fikse to get to the bottom of this as this can't continue on this path.

I got several things from that call, including that there are only 4 sets of wheels in dispute. There have been issues with both Driverz and Fikse on these orders, it's far from one side being to blame.

I'm not going to publicly state all the details, but ultimately, Alan said if anyone is having problems with their orders, he invites them to call their dealer and have the do a conference call with Fikse as so all 3 parties are on the same page.

[JustinB]

Scott, give us a call.

[GregWeld]

Eddie,

I am not looking to get into a argument with you on the forums. I was not on the phone the last time Jon and yourself spoke so I can not comment on the conversation. I know he was trying to get some kind of proof of the shipment from Fikse who had to contact their freight company. We received the wheels and assumed we were all on the same page with the previously discussed time frame and shipped the wheels to you. You nor your bank ever contacted us and let us know you had charged back the wheels. We shipped them out to you, and only found out they had been charged back when they were returned to us. Eddie you act as if we were holding you wheels ransom. We are up Fikses rear trying to get everyone their wheels. We do not make these wheels, we extended the sales price, did all the custom fitment, and in the end had to eat several thousand dollars because Fikse ran behind and we were unable to get a freight company to send us proof of shipment.


Sorry -- but nobody would have had to eat anything if the customer was given the right shipping timeframe at the BEGINNING of the process. Let them decide if they're willing to pay up front and wait 20 weeks for their stuff. Given that simple info - you wouldn't be playing this out via a forum.
I, for one, love it when stuff comes "early" when I expect it between now and never... And then I tell people "yeah! and they shipped my stuff early" -- like I was "special"! LOL

[usa-69z]

Like i previously asked the question...

were orders held back until a 'quota' was reached?
this can make a huge difference between 2 months and 4 months wait time.

and when the said numbers are reached is there a deal from fikse to driverz for free freight??????? :yes:

did anyone get charged for this?

[Fikse Wheels]

Driverz Inc has sold quite a few sets of our wheels in a short time. We appreciate this very much. We are working together to get all of the late (and new) orders completed and shipped as soon as possible. I had a discussion with Jon today regarding his and your orders and we will be happy to discuss each of your orders via conference call with each of you. Please call Driverz and they will set up a conference call with me.

[usa-69z]

Like i previously asked the question...

were orders held back until a 'quota' was reached?
this can make a huge difference between 2 months and 4 months wait time.

and when the said numbers are reached is there a deal from fikse to driverz for free freight??????? :yes:

did anyone get charged for this?

seems no-one will answer this publicaly ??

[JMitch19]

seems no-one will answer this publicaly ??


It was never advertised as a group purchase, and don't believe it was set up as one without us knowing.

As far as the cost of shipping between the manufacture the retainer who cares. We knew the price we were paying up front. The business arrangement between manufacture and retailer isn't the end users business. You are paying x amount for your wheels whether driverz inc paid shipping from fikse or not.

Remember this was't a driverz inc exclusive sale. All fikse dealers offered this deal.

[usa-69z]

It was never advertised as a group purchase, and don't believe it was set up as one without us knowing.

As far as the cost of shipping between the manufacture the retainer who cares. We knew the price we were paying up front. The business arrangement between manufacture and retailer isn't the end users business. You are paying x amount for your wheels whether driverz inc paid shipping from fikse or not.

Remember this was't a driverz inc exclusive sale. All fikse dealers offered this deal.

not true ,, the freight charge was added on the invoice after the initial cost of rims was given.. so when i/we pay over $800 shipping 'on top' of this to get our rims to other destinations we do care. It brings these up to around the $5g mark.

as far as a group purchase,, you believe what you like ..
what im getting at here is that if orders are 'held back' so to get the free shipping deal it can add a lot of weeks to the date when the order was first placed & paid for. so who pays ,, us as purchasers with longer wait times and an extra charge.

I tried to deal with Fikse initially but got jerked around by alan ,who was not willing to ship direct to me , then no reply to my emails several times. After i brought it up on lat G i was contacted by Danny who set things right in the end..and as i still wanted these rims i went thru Jon/Justin as i have dealt with them before and I got a response when i needed.
overall my experience hasnt been too great from start to "yet to be' finish

[JustinB]

Gavin, there was not a quota that had to be met. Orders were placed as they were received. Customers who were quoted the free shipping were giving free shipping regardless if we had to pay and have the shipping expedited to fulfill obligations. Orders were not held back.

Greg, if we would have know the build time was going to extend the way it has, we would have let customers know in the beginning. There is no smoke and mirrors.

All of our customers have been contacted and are up to date with the situation, except for Gavin from AU. Gavin if you could give us a call at the shop I would appreciate it.

[usa-69z]

Gavin, there was not a quota that had to be met. Orders were placed as they were received.

Greg, if we would have know the build time was going to extend the way it has, we would have let customers know in the beginning. There is no smoke and mirrors.

All of our customers have been contacted and are up to date with the situation, except for Gavin from AU. Gavin if you could give us a call at the shop I would appreciate it.

Justin , im at work and cant phone the US at the moment

[JustinB]

Gavin, I only have an international number for you. If there is another number that is easier to call or a specific time you need me to be available, please PM me and let me know.

Justin , im at work and cant phone the US at the moment

[DriverzInc]

Here's what we've done, so everyone that is INVOLVED with an order is in the know. If you are not involved, butt out, you're not helping anyone. Spend your infinite free time elsewhere.

Alan and I talked today. We are working together to make everyone who ordered a set of wheels and is still waiting taken care of, and here are your options.


Option 1:
For outstanding orders, that need to be delivered, you either have already, or will be getting a phone call from Justin or I by tomorrow at the latest. If you are willing to agree to a mutually acknowledged build time moving forward by Fikse, and us, I have a contract for you to sign stating that you are willing to wait said time for your order to be completed from the date it is signed.

This protects US moving forward. I am not going to let what happened with Eddie happen again... no one should stay quiet, not verbally cancel their order, and then when the wheels show up on their door step, send them back to us with a "no thanks, **** you very much". Like I said, I can't absorb that. It's happend 3 times now, and it will be the end of us.

Option 2:
Forgeline has agreed to match the sale price on any of our outstanding orders, and build the wheels in a 4 week period if a powder coated center and polished outer is ordered, and any wheel in their "performance series" is an option. We will also price match any open order in a NewGen wheel, that is a standard finish, i.e., a powder coated center, and chrome outer. 2 customers have already made this move.

I am also pointing out that Dave, the original poster talked to Alan on Friday, and also heard from me first thing this morning in regards to the finish on his wheel he sent back to be re-done.

I'm going to cordially ask that all individuals that are not involved with this deal, or are not a moderator, mind your own business, you have no idea what has happened between us, Fikse, and our customers, and you shoudn't be involved.

We're working hard here for you guys, and to continue doing what we love and pay the bills. Thanks to everyone who has actually called and encouraged us.

[nacnac]

Here's what we've done, so everyone that is INVOLVED with an order is in the know. If you are not involved, butt out, you're not helping anyone. Spend your infinite free time elsewhere.

Alan and I talked today. We are working together to make everyone who ordered a set of wheels and is still waiting taken care of, and here are your options.


Option 1:
For outstanding orders, that need to be delivered, you either have already, or will be getting a phone call from Justin or I by tomorrow at the latest. If you are willing to agree to a mutually acknowledged build time moving forward by Fikse, and us, I have a contract for you to sign stating that you are willing to wait said time for your order to be completed from the date it is signed.

This protects US moving forward. I am not going to let what happened with Eddie happen again... no one should stay quiet, not verbally cancel their order, and then when the wheels show up on their door step, send them back to us with a "no thanks, **** you very much". Like I said, I can't absorb that. It's happend 3 times now, and it will be the end of us.

Option 2:
Forgeline has agreed to match the sale price on any of our outstanding orders, and build the wheels in a 4 week period if a powder coated center and polished outer is ordered, and any wheel in their "performance series" is an option. We will also price match any open order in a NewGen wheel, that is a standard finish, i.e., a powder coated center, and chrome outer. 2 customers have already made this move.

I am also pointing out that Dave, the original poster talked to Alan on Friday, and also heard from me first thing this morning in regards to the finish on his wheel he sent back to be re-done.

I'm going to cordially ask that all individuals that are not involved with this deal mind your own business, you have no idea what has happened between us, Fikse, and our customers, and you shoudn't be involved.

Can I go back to work now?

Yeah, that attitude oughta help with future business.

[Fikse Wheels]

not true ,, the freight charge was added on the invoice after the initial cost of rims was given.. so when i/we pay over $800 shipping 'on top' of this to get our rims to other destinations we do care. It brings these up to around the $5g mark.

as far as a group purchase,, you believe what you like ..
what im getting at here is that if orders are 'held back' so to get the free shipping deal it can add a lot of weeks to the date when the order was first placed & paid for. so who pays ,, us as purchasers with longer wait times and an extra charge.

I tried to deal with Fikse initially but got jerked around by alan ,who was not willing to ship direct to me , then no reply to my emails several times. After i brought it up on lat G i was contacted by Danny who set things right in the end..and as i still wanted these rims i went thru Jon/Justin as i have dealt with them before and I got a response when i needed.
overall my experience hasnt been too great from start to "yet to be' finish

I did not jerk you around. Danny was incorrect and should have verified this information with me before contradicting me. The corporate poilicy for our company is for all international orders are paid in full at the acceptance of the order. We do not accepet credit cards for any orders that are shipped outside of USA or Canada. It is typical for us to ship to your nearest airport if shipping overseas. This is because it is about half the cost to ship to you directly.
Regarding any arrangements between the manufacturer and dealer, this is strictly between those two parties.

[DriverzInc]

Yeah, that attitude oughta help with future business.

I edited that final sentence. I'm under a LOT of stress regarding this, and I have two sets of wheels that are ready to ship but require me to get back there and put tires on them, and I've called and talked to each and every pending order from this Fikse debacle. Monitoring this thread and making sure it didn't get blown out of proportion isn't making it any easier, and keeping me from shipping other customer's products which is not good. Take it as you will, and to guys who know me know I like to work hard and move forward and enjoy my job... right now, I'm not.