Hello all,
Just a quick update for May for the Quik Rack Mach2.
The good Stuff.
Machined parts are almost completed for the first batch, and the last of the purchased items are expected to arrive in the coming days. As everything comes together, we are doing sub assemblies where we can, and there are a couple of examples of those in the pictures that follow.
Although the CNC machines are incredible, they have not been without problems. We lost nearly 10 days of production on one machine due to some bugs, and we are working with the manufacturer to improve efficiencies on another machine as we prepare for full production. The CNC Machine representatives have been very helpful and prompt with coming up from Denver to fix and tweak them, but it is always a next day service at the minimum.
We are still working extended hours to get parts produced and sent to the anodizer so we can build our subassemblies, and are still looking at mid-May to start shipping.
Parts
1.25 inch hitches welded
2 inch hitch crossbar and lever sub assembly
2 inch hitch sub assemblies
Anodized spools and levers
Box – even these are affected by supply chain disruptions!
Like many other companies, our supply chain is facing unprecedented demand, causing shortages and increased costs. One of our vendors sent us a letter warning of coming change. Raw aluminum prices are expected to continue rising and have nearly doubled over the last year. Lead times on some of our custom aluminum has increased from 10 weeks to 27 weeks in some cases. We have had to use alternate vendors to avoid shortages on things like screws and bolts. Of course this is affecting our planning and we are doing our best to mitigate the effects. So far the impact has been workable.
Shipping Product
We have been building sub-assemblies as parts are received back from anodization. It takes a few sub-assemblies to make a completed rack, so once the sub-assemblies are done, orders will be processed on a first in, first out basis. Once we start shipping, we expect to start at a pace of 4-5 racks per day and ramp up to 20 or so. Like the machining processes, as time goes on we will continue to improve those numbers to meet demand, hopefully well beyond 20.
We are seeing that light grow brighter and brighter!!!
So now, the not so good Stuff.
Same story…
Sorry about the delays, but we are doing the best we can given the environment. We feel like this is almost at an end, but we are planning now for 2022 supply chain issues.
Remember, if this is a problem, do not hesitate to contact us and/or ask for a refund.
We’re keeping all sales closed so we can focus on everybody who’s already placed an order. This will alleviate stress on you and alleviate (some) stress on us, because right now, quite honestly, we need it. As much as you want the rack, we want to see them out and about and being used. Keep sending/posting pictures and videos.
So again, thanks for your patience, feedback and support, just stay healthy, get out there and ride. It’s truly humbling all the great feedback, criticism and support you all have given us.
Bryan Wachs
CEO QuikrStuff.com