Masiphiles,
Are people Lemmings? Maybe. But i don't think this example proves it.
I'd agree if Haro-masi was successful, and people were waiting in line ups to buy one. They're not. Do cyclist in general really recognize "masi" in the marketplace? I don't think the consumer who makes up the market for these bikes knows about the history of the brand. If Haro-masi's were on the floor in our shop, I know people would ask, "what's a masi?"
Look at Raleigh and Schwinn. Everyone knew those names, and it hasn't help them sell any bikes. At least ones that cost more than $199.
If the product rocks, people will come. If the product used to rock, sure people will still come for a while, until they figure out that it's not so rockin' in here anymore. Then someone else gets to rock.
Grant McLean Toronto.Ca
e-RICHIE wrote so far, this reply makes the most sense to me.
On Thu, 18 Mar 2004 16:21:52 EST Jon3084@aol.com writes: In a message dated 3/18/2004 4:14:11 PM Eastern Standard Time, richardsachs@juno.com writes: "...but is that why folks covet these?"
No, it is because consumers are like lemmings. Why else would the name be worth anything at all to Haro. Jonathan Greene