My New Cannondale Tandem Arrived Today... With The Wrong Parts....

[Weaklink]

So I ordered an '08 Road Tandem 2 a few weeks ago. The LBS called me at work today and said it was ready to pick-up. I was super stoked!!! I show up at the LBS and there sat my new black beauty. Hey... wait... something is wrong....

Instead of the black FSA Gossamer Tandem cranks, it had silver Truvativ Elite cranks.

Instead of a Shadow XT rear derailleur, it had a Ultegra.

Everything else looked in order

So I let the sales guy (manager?) know it was not right. He looks at it and says, yep, not as listed in the catalog.

He did refer to the mfg's disclaimer: "We do our best to ensure web content accurately reflects exact product spec. However, as changes occur, there may be brief delays in site updates. We reserve the right to make spec changes to improve products without prior notification, which may cause short-term differences in the information listed on the web." But he admitted the cranks were not of equal quality/value. He felt that the rear derailleur was a wash, but said he would contact Cannondale tomorrow to see what is going on.

Regardless, I told him I was not satisfied with the changes and in no way/shape/form was I taking delivery of the bike. (I already paid in full at time of order) He totally agreed.

Anyways, I'm holding my breath to see what shakes-out. This is the 5th bike I have bought from this bike chain (two separate stores) over the past couple years. Just a couple months ago I bought my wife a $2,400 Stumpjumper and we both bought new $1,500 road bikes last fall from this exact store.

I think it will work out, the LBS seems good, but still a little worried.

Anyways, just thought I would add some drama to the board, it's been slow here... :D

Anyone have a similar experiance?

I'll keep you posted.

James

[TandemGeek]

In talking with various different folks in the tandem biz over the past weeks and months I've gotten the distinct impression that there have been a number of parts producers running behind on production and delivery of '08 model year components. This isn't all that uncommon, particularly with tandem components and subtle variations in components often times occur between the time a catalog is produced (summer) and the actual bikes go into production (fall).

My guess is, Cannondale is shipping with the parts they can get their hands on vs. delaying deliveries. The Ultegra triple rear derailleur is a wash on value / performance with the XT shadow and the improved version of the Truvative Elita cranks are also on par with the FSA Gossamer models. Of course, if you had a stealthy-looking tandem in mind, going from black FSA cranks to polished Truvativ cranks can be a bit of a put-off.

Good luck in getting the parts you'd hoped would be on your tandem when you ordered it.

[zonatandem]

Shortages in the supply chain can cause substitutions.
Hopefully LBS will come through for you or rebate difference.
Never had such a problem ourselves.

[Mario V]

I also ordered the C'dale tandem Road 2, '08 which was delivered last friday. It arrived with the same component difference you described (Ultegra rear derailleur and the Truvative cranks), which concerned me a bit at the time. But, I have full Ultegra on my single (Orbea Opal) and it works great so I considered it a wash and as far as the cranks, after doing a little research they seem to be of equal or greater value than the Gossamer. So other than the all black look of the bike, it seems a fair exchange. I actually like the look of the shiny drive train as it matches the cool, silver decals. I have not had a chance to take the new Dale for a long ride yet, but the short ride we took was awesome. Hope this helps.

[Weaklink]

I don't know anything about the cranks, but I know XT Shadow derailleurs are available all over the place, so I would not think supply is the problem there.

Maybe I'm just disappointed because what I ordered was not what I received. Guess it really does not make a difference either way, since my wife & I are old tired souls, and I'm over weight, and a turtle could pass us going down hill..... :o

When life serves me lemons, I cry like a woman... ;)

[RickinFl]

Time's a-wastin'! Take delivery on that bike and get on down the road! What a wonderful Christmas gift for you and your wife.

I know that it can be infuriating not to have things turn out as expected, especially when you have paid for them to be a certain way. In this case though, I'd accept the bike as-is, all the more so considering that the components that were swapped are as good or better than the originals. I like Ultegra myself, and have had really good service from Ultegra components.

Look at it like this- life is short enough. Would you rather be riding or waiting for parts to show up?

Rick

[specbill]

I can sure appreciate that you wanted the look and components that you ordered originally...being the detail freak that I am, the different components would have sent me sideways for sure. That being said, I've got to go with RickinF... with a very cool new ride.. just in time for Christmas..life is good, so let's go ride that C'dale now and enjoy.
You can always continue to chase that steathy look with the LBS later. Put some tape over the Truvative's arms so you don't scratch them and go humble those stinking turtles.

Bill J.

[Weaklink]

Took it as is. Actually, it looks awesome. And.... I'm riding tomorrow BABY!!! :beer:

Turtles BEWARE.

James

[TandemGeek]

Took it as is. Actually, it looks awesome. And.... I'm riding tomorrow BABY!!!

Good call and well done. Have a great maiden voyage.

[RickinFl]

Second that motion from TG.

Be careful out there and have a great Holiday.

Rick

[Mario V]

Congratulations, and enjoy your new toy. Mine is an L/S and the only difference from the stock is that I replace the stoker bars with drop bars.