Angelle: ‘2013 is going to be big’
February 5, 2013
With hearing in homestretch, colliding views on Wright’s competency crystallize
February 5, 2013
Paul Miller loves motorcycles.
Being able to share that love with others is one of the best parts of his job.
Now in business for more than 25 years, Paul Miller’s Motorcycle Specialties is a one-stop shop for everyone with motorcycle and ATV needs.
“We do everything except sell bikes,” Miller said. “We offer pretty much everything – parts, accessories, service. Really anything you need, we take pride in being able to offer it without someone having to go back to the dealership.”
Miller’s love for bikes is bred from childhood.
The local businessman said he was bitten by the motorcycle bug at “around 11 or 12.”
From those early beginnings, Miller shared a story of his childhood endeavors.
“I’ve been wrenching on motorcycles my whole life,” Miller said. “My mother, to this day, can still complain to you about oil stains on the carport. This has been a big part of my life for a long, long time.”
From a childhood hobby, Miller decided to turn his love into a business endeavor.
Miller said he got his start in the motorcycle business in 1974. After working in a couple ventures with a few friends, the businessman created Motorcycle Specialties in 1984.
Away from the one-stop shop mentality, Miller said one of the most important business philosophies he holds is care to the customer.
Inside the Hollywood Road office, Miller and his employees exhibit a friendly, upbeat demeanor to customers.
Miller, himself, said he opens his doors to customers anxious to enhance their biking fix.
He said the ability to share his passion with others is one of the biggest reasons why he enjoys what he does for a living.
“A lot of our customers are very serious about this and really love motorcycles,” Miller said. “It makes me thrilled when those are the people coming in here to do business. I will do anything that I can to help anyone with their interests in this field – even if they just want to come in and talk about something with motorcycles. … That’s one thing I do love about my business – 99 percent of our customers are riding because they love and want to ride.”
The business owner also employ two other “enthusiasts” in salesman Mike Stegall and mechanic Mike Banks.
Each worker has several years experience and can provide the customer with valuable insight regarding purchasing decisions.
Like Miller, the two employees are willing to converse with customers about the ins and outs of all motorcycle needs.
“They were enthusiasts before the got into the business – that makes a big difference,” Miller said. “Our guys talk the talk and they walk the walk. … It’s hard to find good, loyal people who can do that for you. We’re blessed to have them.”
Through such a long time in business, Miller said he has a decent handle on the most common things customers need when they enter his shop.
“It really all depends on the person and the type of bike they have and everything like that,” Miller said. “But the most common thing is probably going to be tires. We move a lot of tires because we keep our prices right and we get them done quickly for the customer. That and the service items for the guy doing his own work – the oil filter and the spark plugs – all of those things that the home mechanic needs. Those are big sellers.”
With 20 years in business and a litany of experience and competitive prices, Miller said he believes his spot is no-brainer for anyone who loves motorcycles.
That passion is something the store prides itself on as it seeks to be a one-stop shop.
“We try to be – we definitely try to be,” Miller said. “The only thing we can’t do is sell you a new motorcycle. Pretty much everything else, we’re happy to provide. We like what we do and we’ve been around for a while now. I guess there’s something that can be said for that.”
Motorcycle Specialties owner Paul Miller (left) said his store is a one-stop shop for all motorcycle needs. One of the reason’s for the store’s success is the friendliness of his trusted hands, including salesman Mike Stegall (center) and mechanic Mike Banks (right). The store has been in business since 1984.
