2004 5.5 EVP at Performance

[autoduel]

So I'm picking up a gel flask for the Nobile ride I'm not doing tomorrow and what did I see on the rack?
(3) 2004 Intense 5.5 EVPs on clearance for $675
One guy I was talking to put one on hold. Let's just say there's only 1 left on the rack now. Black, size small.
It was at the aliso viejo store.

[J_Sims]

nice.....
CC where are you....

[Waldo]

Thanks for the tip, though it would have been a lot more considerate to post it when there were some large frames left!

Congrats on your new ride! Post some pics when it's built.

[Dino Brown]

Originally Posted by Waldo

Thanks for the tip, though it would have been a lot more considerate to post it when there were some large frames left!

Congrats on your new ride! Post some pics when it's built.

The LARGE frames have not been in the stores for years! Only small and x-small sizes. I believe they are left overs from the Supergo era!

[tkblazer]

i've been waiting for them to mark those frames down

[Waldo]

Originally Posted by Dino Brown

The LARGE frames have not been in the stores for years! Only small and x-small sizes. I believe they are left overs from the Supergo era!

No doubt - I was kidding about the lack of larges.
Actually I'm riding a SuperGo-closeout Turner, a 2004 model bought in early 2006. There were some nice deals for a while... (sigh)

[sandblast]

I didn't know Performance (Supergo back then?) used to carry bikes like that. I wouldn't mind Performance prices on that level of stuff, somebody write a letter.

[Waldo]

Originally Posted by sandblast

I didn't know Performance (Supergo back then?) used to carry bikes like that. I wouldn't mind Performance prices on that level of stuff, somebody write a letter.

Sadly it's never gonna happen. Performance is firmly committed to low-mid range bikes and as much house brand gear as possible. At least they still carry some worthwhile stuff. I bought some chain lube and a pair of socks there today ...

[Dino Brown]

Originally Posted by Waldo

Sadly it's never gonna happen. Performance is firmly committed to low-mid range bikes and as much house brand gear as possible.

I am pretty tight with a manager at Performance.... he used to manage Supergo. Waldo is right- it a'int gonna happen! One day the regional manager came in to the store- I asked what kept them from selling (even one) boutique type brand--- he painfully dropped his head in disgust! His hands are tied!

Truth is Performance makes alot of money doing it THEIR way. Sadly, Supergo (while giving the people what they wanted) was not blessed with the same financial success!

Lastly, with the success of many internet based mountain bike retailers, the SUPERGO model (buy truckloads of parts at a time (for cheap) AND/OR tear bikes down in order to resell as parts kits) isn't as special as it used to be!

Wasn't Supergo great!?!

[Devoid169]

Yah - pretty cool store for a chain. I worked there for about 5 months at the one on Warner for Sean Flynn - who now runs the Specialized flagship store on Edinger now. Great guy, decent managers and the ability to get anything was cool. I quit performance after one day (about 8 years ago - Torrance shop) because of those 2 reasons. I guess I shoulda did my homework before applying.....duh.

[Waldo]

Devoid - you hear anything from Sean about Surf City Cyclery? That is a class operation with great stuff, but I've heard a rumor that they are struggling. Hope it's not true - that area should be able to support a solid, high-end oriented shop.

Back to SuperGo: It cracks me up that 2 years later a couple of the Performance shops still have a few SuperGo era items laying around. I was looking at a light the other day that was on a clearance table, but I was a little leery of a battery that may have been sitting around discharged for 2 years!

[Devoid169]

Haven't heard much about that shop - but its in a TERRIBLE location on a great street. All businesses there before it have obviously failed. Its right next to the train tracks but WAY behind and blocked by a Taco Bell. The shop itself is hugs and nice - but can't be easily seen from Edinger - bummer. Sean is a great guy and knows how to run a successful business and I wish him all the best - but we'll just wait and see. Flagship stores have always been a gamble unless properly positioned. But they do have a bunch of other cool bikes there - its not 100% Specialized.

[Schecky]

I was in there today. They have some nice close out deals right now.
They also have a taxicab yellow Langster that is pretty cool.
I agree - I hope the location doesn't hurt 'em.

[Waldo]

Granted, Surf City's location isn't great, but it's not like high-end bike shops are dependent on casual walk-in business: They are destination stores. Adrenaline, Path, Jenson (Ontario)...none are in great locations for visibility and foot traffic.

[Devoid169]

True - just give 'em time. Sean has a great following of loyal customers - hope it all works out.

[Jordansrealm]

Sean is one of the best people I have met in the cycling world. If his shop was closer to me I would be in there much more often. Always treats people like they are first class. I would put Sean and Tani from The Path as the two best bike shop owners in OC in my experiences.

[2wheel_lee]

Although Surf City does have a few token Intense bikes/frames, they're primarily a Specialized concept store. Want mtb tires other than Specialized? Sorry. Want anything that doesn't come on a Specialized bike or in the Specialized accessory catalog? Forget it. Want any kind protection or cool gear? Not a chance (other than the Specialized stuff, which they only had a couple items). Want any specialized (no, not Specialized) small parts? Yeah right.

But like every other shop, they can order it for you. And it's tough to browse without the high pressure sales guys stalking you.

If you like going to The Path or Adrenaline, or places like those, the Surf City may not be your thing. But if you like Specialized products (pun intended), you want to see a large, spacious store that is very attrative looking (imagine a whited out warehouse) without much in stock, Surf City is the place to go.

Hmm...I still want one of those small 5.5 frames for my gf...the UZZI SLX she's on is a bit heavy.

[Jordansrealm]

I have never been pressured once at Surf City. Usually when I come in someone asks me if I need help, I say no thanks and they move on. Sometimes, especially for new people having someone around to help you is a good thing. I know there were times a couple years ago I when I was getting back on the bike I would go to some stores and couldnt get anyone to help me. It is a Specialized store yes so if you want more variety then I would suggest going somewhere else. I just hate when people bash a good shop just because its not what "they specifically" prefer.

[Dino Brown]

I am a huge fan of the "PEOPLE" at Surf City Cycles. Not a huge fan of the "Specialized" concept idea.

I have been given VERY valuable (and money saving) technical info..... received a price match....... was given a small part at no cost.... and I found Specialized CHUNDER tires in stock (2.3/2.5). Wasn't expecting that!

If not for the fact SCC is located 40 minutes from my home- I would shop with them more often.

Good people! I wish them nothing but the best!

[PacMan]

Originally Posted by Waldo

Back to SuperGo: It cracks me up that 2 years later a couple of the Performance shops still have a few SuperGo era items laying around. I was looking at a light the other day that was on a clearance table, but I was a little leery of a battery that may have been sitting around discharged for 2 years!

I agree, it's pretty amusing actually. The Performance in Oceanside has an '05 Marzocchi All Mountain SL fork for only $550. You can find those online for $300 or less. The thing has been sitting there so long and collected so much dust the fork's decals are permanently discolored.