This model is MIA on the REI website. Does anyone know if it is just sold out for 2008? If so, does anyone know when they expect 2009's? I've got a 15% off coupon burning a hole in my pocket.

My understanding is that if it is listed in the size/model you want, then it is available. Sounds like they are all gone.

I noticed the same thing. It seems like the model is discontinued because its just not there anymore. You cant even find the specs on it if you have the old link and model number.

Didn't sell?

Not necessarily. They remove items from their website when they're sold out. Last year the Fusion disappeared from the site about this time and returned again when the 2008's came in. Seems like they make one order per year with the intention of selling out.


Call or visit a store. They might be able to find you one on the floor somewhere.

Yeah, I wanted to test ride the Novara Squadra, and they have them, but no more in my size. They have small, large, and extra-large, but no more mediums. Better luck next year. If you really want a Novara bike from them, and you know what you want, and you are a member, buy it in March, when they have the annual 20% coupon sale, when members can buy any one item at REI for 20% off. (Just goes for Novara and a couple of other brands of bikes - K2 and Cannondale, I think.) I bought my Novara Forza for $110 off that way. I'm thinking of buying a Novara Strada next year (I wanted to test ride a Squadra, too), and I'd save $220 on it that way.

And like JeffS said, I think that just means that's all for the ones that they have available in the warehouse to ship. They still may have some around in the stores, on the floors or hanging from the ceilings or in the back rooms...

I say this partly because I still see one or two 2007 models kicking around on discount on the floor in the Seattle store.

Have your local REI check their system and see if they can find one at another location. That's how I lucked out and got my FlyBy. There were 3 left in the entire company and my shop managed to get one transfered for me. Cost a little extra in fees,but was worth it.

BTW,I had an Element for a short time,but returned it. So disappointed. From a previous cross bike I knew I was going to have to swap on a triple,but then I found out how harsh the ride was. The alloy fork sucked. There also wasn't much room to go up in tire size,and if memory serves it also lacked a chainstay bridge which meant MacGuyvering to get full fenders on,so back it went. I really wanted to love the bike,but just one commute killed my buzz. If next year they put on a carbon or steel fork,switch to a compact double,and open up a little tire clearance,I'd get one in a second.