Above Category

For serious cyclists in California, particularly those in the picturesque Bay Area and Marin County, finding a bicycle store that transcends the ordinary is a true discovery. Beyond mass-produced models and standard repairs, there's a desire for precision, customization, and a deep understanding of cycling artistry. This comprehensive guide introduces you to Above Category, a specialized bicycle store located in Sausalito, CA, that caters to this discerning clientele, offering bespoke bike builds, high-end components, and an unparalleled level of personal service.

Above Category is not your typical bike shop. It's a destination for those who view cycling as a passion, an art form, and a pursuit of performance. With a focus on superior carbon and titanium brands, and a commitment to attractive customization, they aim to create dream bikes that are as stunning as they are functional. This unique approach resonates deeply with cyclists who value quality, precision, and a personalized experience over off-the-shelf solutions.

Located in the heart of Sausalito, a town synonymous with stunning rides and a vibrant outdoor culture, Above Category has carved a niche for itself by offering a truly elevated experience. This article will delve into the specifics of what makes Above Category a premier choice for serious cyclists across California, covering their location, the specialized services they provide, unique features, and essential contact information.

Above Category, founded by Chad Nordwall and Kalara, is positioned as a high-end bike shop in Sausalito, California, with a distinct focus on bespoke builds. Unlike conventional retail, their emphasis is on crafting custom bicycles tailored to individual specifications and desires, working with a curated selection of world-class builders and frame suppliers. This includes renowned carbon and titanium brands, allowing for superior quality and highly personalized results.

Their philosophy centers on providing a truly personal experience, guiding clients through every step of the custom bike journey. This dedication to individualized attention is evident in customer testimonials that praise the team's patience, expertise, and willingness to answer countless questions, even those a customer might not initially know to ask. The store serves as more than just a point of sale; it's a consultation studio where serious mountain and road cyclists can collaborate with seasoned professionals to bring their dream bike projects to life.

Above Category's commitment extends to offering considered upgrades and handpicked products, ensuring that every component contributes to the ultimate riding experience. Their approach is holistic, aiming not just for a sale but for a relationship that supports a cyclist's journey from conception to realization of their ideal machine, all within the beautiful backdrop of Sausalito.

Above Category is ideally situated at 42 Caledonia St, Sausalito, CA 94965, USA. This prime location in Sausalito, a charming and iconic city in Marin County, California, makes it a notable destination for cyclists. Sausalito is celebrated for its scenic beauty, proximity to the Golden Gate Bridge, and access to some of the finest cycling routes in the Bay Area.

Caledonia Street is a well-known thoroughfare in Sausalito, making the store easily identifiable and accessible for clients traveling from across California. For those driving, street parking can typically be found in the vicinity, though it's advisable to factor in the popularity of the area. For cyclists, the store is conveniently located near major bike paths and routes, allowing for a pleasant ride directly to their studio.

The strategic positioning of Above Category in Marin County, often considered the birthplace of mountain biking and a hub for road cycling, further enhances its accessibility and relevance to serious cyclists. Its setting provides a natural environment for testing and appreciating high-performance bicycles. Clients can schedule in-person or video appointments, offering flexibility for those with busy schedules or those traveling from farther afield within California or beyond. This combination of a picturesque physical location and flexible consultation options ensures that Above Category is within reach for anyone seeking their specialized services.

Above Category specializes in a highly personalized and bespoke approach to cycling, offering services tailored to the discerning cyclist:

• Custom Bike Builds: This is their core service, involving the creation of unique, made-to-measure, or semi-custom bicycles. They work with superior carbon and titanium brands and a selection of world-class frame builders (e.g., No22 titanium builder out of NY), allowing clients to customize everything from frame geometry to component selection.
• Expert Consultation: The team, including key contacts like Chad (co-founder), Kalara (co-founder), Julius (Sales Director), Robert Gee (Service Manager), and Mike Wilson (Sales), provides in-depth consultations. This involves patiently answering countless questions and guiding clients through complex decisions, ensuring the final build meets and exceeds expectations. One customer highlighted the exceptional support from Julius, Chad, and Kalara during their custom No22 titanium bike build.
• High-End Component Sourcing: They focus on providing quality components and attractive customization options, ensuring that every part of the bike is of superior quality and fits the rider's specific needs and aesthetic preferences.
• Bike Servicing & Upgrades: Beyond new builds, they offer "personalized bike servicing and considered upgrades." This holistic approach includes proactive maintenance and support to prevent issues, with initial consultations to understand the bike's history and the rider's goals.
• Nationwide Pick Up Service: For added convenience, they can collect, service, and return bikes for clients, even those located far from Sausalito, through a "white glove shipping service," eliminating the need for clients to pack their bikes.
• Product Sales: While specializing in custom builds, they also offer "handpicked products" and "considered upgrades," including specific items like Rene Herse tires and eeBrakes.

Above Category distinguishes itself with several prominent features and highlights that appeal to serious and discerning cyclists in California:

• Unparalleled Customization: Their ability to offer truly bespoke bikes, leveraging superior carbon and titanium brands, is a key differentiator. They specialize in creating bikes with custom geometry, tailored to the individual rider, as evidenced by a customer's stunning and functional custom No22 titanium bike.
• Exceptional Staff Expertise and Service: The team receives consistent praise for being "excellent," "wonderful," and an "absolute joy to work with." Staff members like Chad, Kalara, Julius, Robert, and Mike are highlighted for their in-depth knowledge, patience, and ability to guide clients through complex decisions, exceeding expectations in the custom build process.
• Focus on Quality Components: Above Category emphasizes the use of high-quality components, ensuring that every part of the custom build contributes to optimal performance and aesthetics. This commitment to quality is appealing to riders who value precision and durability.
• Holistic Approach to Cycling: They don't just sell bikes; they offer a comprehensive experience from initial consultation to ongoing servicing and upgrades. Their "holistic servicing philosophy" includes proactive maintenance, ensuring the bike performs optimally for years.
• Unique Selection of Builders: As a dealer for niche and highly respected builders like No22 titanium, they provide access to brands and options that might not be available at conventional bike shops, catering to a connoisseur's taste.
• Showroom Experience: The Sausalito studio provides a tactile environment for clients to discuss their dreams, see samples, and interact with the team, contributing to an "excellent first impression."

For inquiries, to schedule a consultation, or to begin the journey of building your custom dream bike, Above Category can be reached through the following contact details:

Address: 42 Caledonia St, Sausalito, CA 94965, USA

Phone: (415) 339-9250

Mobile Phone: +1 415-339-9250

For serious and discerning cyclists residing in California, especially within the greater Bay Area, Above Category in Sausalito stands out as an exceptionally suitable and perhaps unparalleled destination. Its prime location at 42 Caledonia St, nestled in the picturesque and cycling-centric town of Sausalito, makes it a pilgrimage site for those who value the art and science of high-performance cycling. This location isn't just convenient; it aligns perfectly with the lifestyle of California's passionate cycling community, offering access to stunning rides and a beautiful backdrop for their cycling aspirations.

What truly distinguishes Above Category and makes it ideal for local users is its unwavering commitment to customization and quality. Unlike standard bicycle stores, Above Category specializes in bespoke builds using superior carbon and titanium brands. This focus allows Californians to create a bike that is not merely a mode of transport but a personal extension of their riding style and aesthetic preferences. The ability to work with experts like Julius, Chad, and Kalara, who patiently guide clients through countless questions and complex decisions, ensures that the "entire experience exceeded all my expectations," as one customer eloquently put it. This level of personalized service, from custom geometry to component selection, is invaluable for riders who demand perfection and individuality.

Furthermore, for those who "value quality components with attractive customization," Above Category offers access to niche and top-tier builders like No22 titanium, providing options that are simply not available elsewhere. This exclusive access, combined with their holistic approach to servicing and upgrades, ensures that a client's investment is not just in a bike, but in a long-term partnership that supports their cycling journey. For serious mountain or road cyclists in California, Above Category is more than a bike shop; it's a collaborative studio where cycling dreams are meticulously crafted into reality.

Above Category

42 Caledonia St, Sausalito, CA 94965, USA