Postby Brian.Fosh » Mon Jul 04, 2016 12:09 am
I have been using vintage bikes for 36 years, since i was 16. Agreed value above a threshold of £5k has applied for much of that time. Most of my bikes never went over that value but I've been happy to fill in the form on the occassion it did, because doing so was in my best interest.
I used Carol Nash for well over a decade or two.. because after Norwich Union withdrew from multi-bike policies, Carol Nash set the new high standard for cheap but good quality multi-bike vintage policies which included semi-modern bikes. However, they were bought out and increased the minimum age of more modern bikes, first insuring but later ruling out my 2002 BMW. They also diversified to the extent that I don't perceive them as "specialist" any more. I see in the VMCC magazine this month that Carol Nash have withdrawn from Supporting the VMCC and this in particular, (but also a reduced membership), is stated as the primary cause of the VMCC making a financial loss this year...
Footman James now sponsor the VMCC, so I will be happy to use them again, although the BSAOC AGM discussions revealed Footman James a couple of years back receiving business through the club membership but then not paying the club in a timely way. I stopped using them because I felt they were applying sharp business practices at that clubs expense.
I used Peter James for the past few years and found them Cheap and knowledgeable & specialist to vintage bikes (and cars). I heard or read that "Peter James" was the "james" part of footman james. I've no reason to not Use Peter James.
I've been impressed by MCE, whose modern bike schemes are well priced and they are always quick and helpful and clearly mindful of "Bikers" needs on the phone, but perhaps just a little condescending.. listen to their pre-recorded patter on the phone and see what you think?.. I don't see them as Vintage specialists at all but If they moved in to the vintage market, i would consider them.
Bikesure Come up frequently with cheapest on-line young-person quotes for my son and I get plagued by emails as a consequence. I perceive them as being a bit of a volume/mainstream supplier, shaving costs where they can to win the volume business, but no-where-near matching the understanding of old Bikes that comes from Footman James or Peter James or even Carol Nash.
Brian