For experienced cyclists, who have little compunction about spending exorbitant sums for the most expensive and esoteric equipment, clothing and accessories, this is your place. AC has found its home in an area that loves being presented with the finest of everything. Yet the law of diminishing returns plays as great a role in the world of cycling as anywhere else and no more so than the in approach to the market this shop employs.
One would assume that in the golden pantheon occupied by the fabulously priced Pinarello bicycle, any problems, flaws or failures in such a top of the market item would be supported by a deservedly obsequious attention to the concerns of their patrons, not to mention the reputation of one of the premier brands they represent.
Though my Pinarello was not purchased from AC, as Pinarello dealers they handled its reconditioning and transfer from inGamba to myself after a four month season in Italy comprising an estimated 900 miles. I could be forgiven for thinking that they might step forward in some fashion to defend one of their brands in the face of an unexplainable, uncharacteristic and unacceptable failure occurring within an otherwise pristine bicycle frame after a mere follow-on 21 rides and 700 miles. This not only didn't happen, it was made pretty clear that they wanted nothing to do with me or the problem. When an employee in attendance was asked what he would do in my shoes, his response: "buy a new frame" ($5400) struck me speechless. The owner, Chad, wandered by during this exchange and wouldn't even meet my eye much less involve himself. Were there any helpful suggestions about alternatives, such as repair? No. Did they even seem interested in selling me a new frame? No. So "buy a new frame" (but from someone else apparently) are the words that I take away from my last ever foray into this "prestigious", "high-end" emporium of bicycle nirvana.
I now have a copy of the "Ferrari" of bicycles, with a replacement cost approaching $10,000, that while pristine enough to pass for nearly new and with a minor defect only visible under extremely close inspection, that is unusable - if personal safety is of any importance.
So, I certainly wish you better Luck. But I would suggest considering cost-benefit ratio along with the law of diminishing returns when exploring any new bicycle acquisition. Further, that Studio Velo in Mill Valley has demonstrated a very different and far more engaging approach to their market and the people that inhabit that market. read more
