When it comes to tires, many customers look to dealers to direct them to a product that will fit their needs. Whether they are a first time UTV rider or a professional racer, getting to know the customer’s specific needs can be the key to making the sale or not.
Location – Knowing the intended use of the tire will help identify what product is best. Most of the time, UTV tires will take a beating on varying terrain. Recommend tires that will last the test of time and travel according to your customer’s desires.
Sand – Look to sell tires with staggered knobs in the tread to maximize steering response and blades for versatility in dunes. A low ply rating is recommended to give sand customers a comfortable ride. Check out CST’s Sandblast here.
Mud – A fanged tread pattern is perfect for muddy and slick conditions to give the driver more control when accelerating and breaking. The sharp tread pattern throws mud away from the tires to allow the rider to get through wet conditions. Check out CST’s Sludge Hammer here.
Hard Pack and Rock – Tires with a non-directional tread pattern perform best to clear debris and rock. Look for tread that interlocks and utilizes hook-like lugs that dig deep into hard pack terrain to offer optimum traction. Check out CST’s Lobo RC here.
All terrain – Tires with an aggressive tread pattern help UTVs adapt to a wide variety of terrain. Be sure to offer tires that feature deep-ridged treads to provide confidence in cornering and prevent sliding on varying trails. Check out CST’s Dingo here.Construction – When asking the customer where they intend to ride, you can use this to pinpoint which construction they might prefer.
Radial – A radial tire allows the sidewall and the tread to function as two independent parts of the tire. This tire is best for durability and smooth rides on paved or flat roads. Check out CST’s Stag here.
Bias ply – A bias ply tire is made of multiple rubber layers overlapping, creating an independent crown and sidewall. This tire performs well on rougher terrain. Check out CST’s Abuzz here.Capacity – If the customer’s intended use is for work, ask what kind of load they will be transporting. The load carrying capacity varies for each tire and machine. Ideally, match or exceed the load carrying capacity of the tire to that of the machine.
Value – Every customer is looking for is a good deal and a tire purchase should not be a frugal one. Give customers options based on their needs that range from least expensive to most expensive. Identify each component of the tire that fits what the customer is looking for and allow them to choose based on their budget.
Proof –Is your customer a racer? When a racer enters a dealership, they are looking for a tire that will help them get to the finish line. The product you are selling could have influential racers who are sponsored by a specific brand that appeals to them. If the tire you’re selling has name recognition, it helps to show customers that there are riders who stand by the brand at the checkered flag. Knowing who some of the racers are and what tires brands they ride with will help you identify with certain customers.