I love my job, because I am able to use my skills and talent to help people.
After 38 years in the corporate world. I decided to retire and open a business, which truly fuels my passion for things mechanical and the personal satisfaction I gain from helping people.
In July of 2006 I moved back to Chattanooga from Raleigh North Carolina, where I was the district service manager for a major corporation. I had ridden and worked on motorcycles for 46 years as a hobby. So on July 5th 2006, I opened Stroker Cycle LLC in Harrison Tennessee.
After 38 years in the service business, I had learned that, customers want quality work at a fair price when it comes to repairing anything. It is a simple formula for success, which often is not as simple to deliver when you are attached to the corporate structure. You don't always have that direct control over quality service.
I have a true passion for working on motorcycles and my god given talents and abilities have afforded me the opportunity to have a job I truly love. You have to love what you are doing in life to be good at it, and If you are lucky enough to find a job where you can do that. You will never work another day. because it isn't work if you love what you do.
Since opening my business, it has grown to the point where I had to expand and build another shop in 2007. Word of mouth is the best advertising any small business can have and the old saying where;" 1 satisfied customer will tell 3 and 1 dissatisfied customer will tell 10" is true. That is why I am so meticulous in my work and pay attention to details. I also repair a customers motorcycle like I would want my own repaired. When a customer picks up their bike, I have full knowledge that the repairs have been completed to the best of my ability, and it has certainly paid off. I receive many phone calls from my customers, complimenting my work and the way their bike performs and handles after it was picked up. This is the true reward for my business. The phone call from customer’s with their satisfaction and the knowledge that I made someone's life better through my efforts.
There are many challenges in starting your own business today; especially in our present economic situation. But, if you find that one thing you are really good at and passionate about, you can be successful beyond your wildest dreams. Don't let others tell you that you can't do it. Eliminate your doubts and fears. Hard work, being passionate about what you do, and treating your customers like you want to be treated, will always pay off.
My boss is a pretty good guy too; he is also the owner and chief mechanic.
Robert Partee
Stroker Cycle LLC
11320 Thatch Road
Harrison , Ten 38341
423-344-2571
