Local motorcycle parts and gear shop

Local riders, riding clubs, and independent mechanics who need parts quickly.

Retail mark-up on parts and gear, trade accounts with workshops, and special orders. Sales are strongest in the riding season, so build up a cash reserve for the winter months.

• Strong motorcycle and parts knowledge
• Stock control and buying
• Customer service and sales

• Stock is a large upfront cost and unsold items tie up cash, especially over winter
• Check municipal zoning, a business licence and any signage rules for your location
• Commercial general liability and product liability insurance, plus property cover for stock
• GST/HST registration, and WCB/WSIB coverage if you hire staff (rules vary by province)
• Helmets and safety gear: check that products meet the standards your province requires
• Online shops compete on price, so focus on advice, fast availability and workshop supply

Estimates suggest startup costs are typically around $40,000 to $150,000, depending on your premises, fit-out and how much stock you buy. Stock is a large upfront cost, so the size of your opening inventory matters a great deal.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $15,000 to $60,000, depending on your location, range and whether you supply local repair workshops. These are revenue estimates, not profit, and winter can tie up cash in unsold stock.

Check municipal zoning, a business licence and signage rules for your location. Also check insurance such as commercial general liability and product liability, GST/HST registration, WCB/WSIB if you hire staff, and whether helmets and safety gear meet your province's required standards.