The installation screws, derailleur hanger, and what is remaining of the dropout show evidence of crossthreading in one of the two installation holes. The screw that shows evidence of cross threading only shows evidence of that up to 3/4ths of the way up... an indication that is was most likely never installed completely flush with the surface (most likely felt too much resistance from the result of cross threading from the beginning?) Anyway, the paperwork from the purchase does not indicate who did the assembly and installation of parts, and of which parts. It's a Cannondale product, and if they have assigned assembly and installation to their authorized retailers, it's up to them to go after their "contractors"... that is not the customers responsibility.

I have not decided if it is worth the time and hassle to pursue legal action. It would be held up in court for a long, long time. It may just be better to move on, get me another bike, and share my experience with others about cannondale, their useless lifetime warranty, and their authorized retailers. Someone made a mistake, it wasn't me. It has already cost me. However, it will also cost cannondale and their retailers. I've already had one associate change her mind about buying a cannondale that I had highly recommended and she won't buy another brand from the retailer either.

In addition to my bicycle (+ $150 for lifetime tune ups and adjustments), I have easily spent $200+ per year at this bike shop over the past seven years. I'm sure they won't feel it. But someone else will gladly take that business. I will be buying a new bicycle to replace my synapse... it will not be a cannondale product and it will not be purchased from Old Town Bicycles.