safe or not, it's an issue. I should not be fixing a bike I just bought for $700. Adjusting maybe, demanding a part that was missing from the packaging - a stretch, but sanding down a finish, applying anti slip compound...etc... goes beyond what I expect for $700.

I will sand down the black anodizing, and apply anti-slip compound. This will cost me time, gas, and money that could've gone towards upgrades, and riding time.