Fastrack Bicycles

Dave and Luke are true professionals. On the bike and in the store. They were so welcoming and charming. I came in to buy a Garmin Edge 520 and Dave was nice enough to set it up for me and school me on the sweet features. Bike shops are usually very intimidating to me. The people who tend to work at shops are dry and unimpressed. Dave’s enthusiasm was so refreshing and totally inspired me to become a better cyclist. I will be spending all my money here.

Just want to say these guys are awesome! Came to Santa Barbara from LA for a couple of days. had a blow out my first ride here coming down Gibraltar which destroyed my rear wheel. After checking out a couple of other shops I ended up here, glad I did. They set me up with some wheels and tires cheaper than I would have got in LA. These guys are great easy to talk to and listen which is rare in bike shops. I definitely recommend them!

I ended up with giant bike, but the service I received in fastrak is definitely the best in town. Luke was very nice and helpful. If I need a trek I would buy it from them.

I absolutely love this place! I always take my bike there for tune ups and whenever I need to purchase bike gear. The guys that work there are really friendly and they always take care of my bike quickly and I ride away happy. Great place with great people!

My husband and I both purchased our trek bikes from fast track and the service has been outstanding! Dave made a few tweaks at no charge and the bikes are better than ever! He is very customer service oriented and we are very pleased to be his customers!

Short version:
If you are in the market for a new bicycle just go to Fastrack and you’ll be happy you did.
The long story:
A friend of mine recently got a road bike and after a couple months of thinking about it, I decided I needed one for myself. Now, I am the kind of person who spends maybe an excessive amount of time researching and deliberating over any sort of big purchase like a bicycle. I researched every brand and style of road bike. I visited many shops, rode bike after bike, I read every bicycle website and blog, watched a bunch of youtube reviews, etc… This is all to say that given how much time I spent learning about the bikes and knowing that I had so many bike shops in Goleta/​Santa Barbara to choose from, I had high expectations.
Fastrack was actually the last shop I visited in my bicycle search and I have to admit that, at first, I was kind of apprehensive about the place. It was smaller than any other shop I had visited and seemed to be stocked with very expensive bikes out of my price range. That being said, in addition to the more exotic makes, I knew they also sold Trek which was the brand I was leaning towards after my research process. Once I began talking with Dave Lettieri (the proprietor of the shop) I realized I was in the right place.
[Side note: you know when you meet someone and somehow in the first 60 seconds you get the impression that that person is really good at what they do? Well that person’s name is Dave Lettieri.]
Right off the bat, Dave resolved a concern I had about which frame size was right for me. He picked out a bike, fixed it to this trainer contraption thing and adjusted it and right away determined the right fit for me. No other shop I had visited went to the trouble to do that for me.
After discussing my budget and letting me know about a stellar deal available to Santa Barbara Axxess Card members, Dave gave me some quotes and soon afterwards I ordered a Trek Madone.
Less than a week later, I came in to get the bike and buy my accessories. My friend had warned me that accessory purchases can easily add up to more than one might expect. So before going back, I made a list of things to get thinking I wouldn’t go «off list» and buy anything that wasn’t crucial to getting me on the road. When I got to the shop, I was greeted by Luke, Dave’s right hand man /​cohort. [Side note: Luke is very helpful /​professional but also very funny… he dispenses bicycle wisdom and insight with a lambent wit.] Luke advised me against some of the accessories on my list and, in doing so, saved me time and money.
The best part of the «Fastrack experience» is the service. With this shop, you don’t feel like livestock being herded through a system designed to extract money from your bank account. Rather, every question or concern and every little mechanical issue I’ve had was dealt with swiftly, courteously and professionally. They even got my bicycle back in working order after I, ahem… «gently crashed it» after having it for less than a week. No charge, no fee… just a simple request that I not crash it again. :)
If this review isn’t an indication then let me explicitly convey to you that: I am a huge fan of Fastrack/​Dave/​Luke. After my experiences at Fastrack, I would self-​identify as a «pathologically loyal customer» and ALL of my future bicycle purchases will be made there. I don’t even live in Santa Barbara and there are at least 5 other bike shops between where I live in Goleta and Fastrack. What does that tell you?
In fact, the only negative thing that comes to mind regarding this business is that parking can be a real «female dog» at this location (canon perdido between de la vina and chapala). Of course, this is a very small thing that shouldn’t dissuade you from letting the folks at Fastrack help you find the perfect bike! What are you waiting for?!

The crew at Fastrack just saved my tail with their great service. When another shop in town (that I used to really like) was delayed by almost two weeks on a part re-​order, that was at least partially their fault, I called Fastrack in a panic. They were able to find the part I needed, install it and clean up my ride that afternoon so I could ship out for a race the same day. Their customer service and willingness to help me a jam was much appreciated. Will not be taking my bikes here.

After four years of amazing service I decided it is time to join Unilocal just so I can post a review for Fastrack Bicycles. I am no bike expert – I just like to ride – and they have been there to keep me and my bike on the road and to answer every question I have. Here are the reasons I keep going back:
1) I trust them
2) They are damn good at what they do
3) Their prices are great for the service they provide
4) They are just fun and have a great attitude
I first went to Fastrack four years ago because my 15-​year-​old hand-​me-​down Bianchi road bike was falling apart. I knew nothing about how to take care of it and I was riding 100 miles a week — the thing needed help. Dave did an amazing job fixing it up, replacing the wires and everything, and it ran beautifully for years after. When I told my very bike-​knowledgeable friend what I paid for the repairs he was amazed at how reasonable the price was for all the work they did.
On top of excellent service, they have a great attitude, even about my lack of enthusiasm for and knowledge about maintaining my bike. I once walked into a store that reprimanded me for my horrible bike maintenance, so I was ready to get an earful. Instead Dave said something to the effect of, «hey, you ride the thing, and that’s what matters.» The store environment is always casual and fun. I feel more like I’m walking into a friendly coffee shop than a bike store. I’m not an extreme cyclist and I have never spent much money in the shop (until today), but they have always provided great customer service and were willing to answer all sorts of questions.
Today, four years later, my bike is pretty much disintegrating; the frame is cracked and I need a new bike. They were happy to show me bikes in all price ranges, including test rides, and break it down as to what I would be paying for at each level, while considering my type and level of use. They are very straight up about it and happy to answer questions, and based on my past experience over the years I just trust them. As a result I decided to rely on their knowledge for my choice rather than doing tons of research myself (very unusual for me). So tomorrow I pick up my perfect-​for-​me shiny new bike from my favorite bike shop on the planet, and I’m just so excited about it! :-)
Thank you Fastract for all the years of excellent service!

When i moved to Santa Barbara nine years ago, I asked around for a good bike shop. While the reputation proceeded it already from friends in Oregon, Fastrack had rave reviews. Thanks to some trusted connections, I met Dave immediately and have never looked back or ever stepped into another shop in Santa Barbara since.
In nearly a decade, I’ve purchased two beautiful, high end bikes from Dave [along with a litany of apparel and accessories]. My first Fastrack bike was an innovative rocket ship and the subsequent service was always speedy, thorough and with some really fun banter [thanks Luke]! ;) My most recent, second Fastrack bike purchase is a custom one. Dave spent hours with me throughout the process, measuring, explaining the steps, picking colors and equipment, and much, much more. I couldn’t have felt more prepared AND at ease with such a significant investment. One of the best investments I have made.
Recently this custom bike developed a few cracks in the frame — undoubtedly from normal wear and tear. Of course when I shared this with Dave, he immediately took control. He promptly called the vendor, disassembled the bike, packed it like a crystal vase, shipped it back and ushered the process along with great efficiency. As a result of his caring and wonderful work on my behalf, I have a new frame — completely reassembled by Dave [and Luke] and fit again [by Dave]. Needless to say, shopping locally has its benefits and i’ll continue to not only give Fastrack my business but I will refer any/​and everyone who I know to them for best-​in-​class service and products [as I have for years].
While i’ll never ride as fast as Lance, there is something that gives me great pride knowing that his ex-​right hand man keeps my safety and comfort top of mind. There is additional satisfaction knowing that I am supporting a local business which is extremely community-​minded and also gives back to our glorious little city and its people, too.
The stars speak for themselves.
Huge thanks to Fastrack for all you do … on and off the bike!!!

Bought the living social deal to have my bike cleaned and tuned up. I procrastinated but Dave took it on the last day, and cleaned her up super nice. I came in to pick it up and ge remembered me and which bike was mine right off the bat. I know where I’ll be bringing my bike from now on!

I have been a customer at Fastrack since it opened and Dave ran it himself seven days a week. I have watched this shop grow, but not overgrow. Years back, Dave added Luke to the team, a perfect addition. Those two are like brothers who can communicate on a whole different level.
The bottom line with this shop is that they really care about getting people set up on the right bike and/​or equipment. You go to a bike shop to get expert advice, and these guys are experts. They are great at laying out the best options one has when choosing a bike or equipment and letting the customer decide. Fastrack has a very good inventory compared to the other Santa Barbara shops, and they can get most anything you need in a day or two from multiple vendors.
I have to laugh at the bitter guy that mocked the fact that Dave was Lance’s mechanic. Hello fool… Lance Armstrong asked Dave to come over to the Tour de France to be his personal mechanic despite the fact that his team has a staff of guys to work on bikes. Is there a better endorsement than that? Also, every pro racer that comes through town stops into Fastrack. I was in there today and saw that Liquigas ProTour rider Ted King had shipped his bike ahead to Dave to assemble ahead of a training block here in SB.
The prices at Fastrack are competitive with online vendors AND you get the greatest service. Almost all tunes and repairs are done on the spot or same day. Try to find that anywhere else in SB. Unless you are a good mechanic yourself, it is crucial to get good service on your machine. After purchasing bikes at Fastrack, they did follow-​up adjustments and tuning free of charge. I couldn’t be happier!
This is the place to go for riders of all levels.

Yeah these guys will bust your chops and tell you that you’re riding an old bucket around. If you can’t handle friendly banter, then go somewhere else ya pansy!
I finally purchased a new road bike from these guys, after getting my old bucket fixed many times. I went to every bike store around SB and asked a million questions, and milled over it for months. These guys answered my questions every time, and let me test ride like 5 different bikes. Dave was extremely helpful and honest with my build. I actually spent a bit less than i planned to based on Dave’s advice. (I mean, not that much less. my bank account is on fire at this point but whatever)

These guys are just great. Yes, Luke is good at sales. Why? Because he is passionate about bikes, has good depth of practical experience, and excellent intuition. The out of town guy ragging about his experience must be a real case. I don’t know him, but I know Dave and Luke.
My families first contact with them was through my wife, who was looking for a gift for me. She is a spender, but what I got was a pair of bike socks. Must be a lot of pressure around there! Plus, she is very sensitive to bull and she loved Dave.
Dave helped me get the bike of my dreams when I was ready for a road bike. It was special order and he gave me great service. They really take care of me. Dave is a direct guy. You can sense his integrity and good will. He has awesome cred: who do you think knows more? A guy from the pro circuit, or some clown with an antique bike?
And speaking of antique bikes, I have one, an early ‘80s Stumpjumper. It is rusting away but I still use it for knock around. They told me flat out: save your dough, there is no cure for it. I know that they are right, instead of charging me to tune it for $ 100+, they just help keep it alive for peanuts.
One last thing, when I need shorts, Luke «up-​sells» me to singlets. For a very few extra bucks, I get a more comfortable ride. To me that’s what good service is about, making cogent recommendations.

Knowledge and courtesy is what you’ll get at Fastrack. First, are there less expensive places to buy a bike, helmet and socks? Yes. But what you get here is a relationship with a local business.
Personal reviews drove me into the shop but I was warned they team will push the sale and try to upgrade your decision. I would totally agree based on my experience. Was it worth it? You bet ya.
Looking for information only, Luke was quick to assess my skills and pull a bike from the back for a test ride. A few adjustments later and I was out the door. Great pick! The price was right and the feel was good. I made my decision to buy but was planning on stopping there.
Would you call it persuasive selling or just good business, I’m not sure but I left with more than I planned. The only ding to the whole ordeal working with Luck and having Dave fine tune the adjustments, was the bike I rode and said I’d take, was misquoted by about 8.5% and not in my favor. A little of the ol bait a switch or just unfamiliarity with my model. While I was shocked at the mistake, Dave met me half way and I still feel like I got a deal.
Dave and Luke rock
Went in with questions
Rode out with a bike
I feel like I now have friends in the bike business. Only time will tell

Best bike store in town, these guys have good prices, they are super friendly and help out in whatever way they can. This is an example of when I would prefer to spend a little more money locally than shopping online because of the service you get with them. Plus Lance is a fan…

I used to visit Dave’s shop when I attended UCSB. As an experienced cyclist and mechanic for major events, Dave has a natural ability to fit someone to the right bike. Why would Lance Armstrong choose him as his mechanic for the Tour de France if Dave was not good at what he does? haha. I mean really?
As a smaller shop than most, it feels very comfortable to be there. You get to know the people in there and share experiences. Other shops always try to sell you something you don’t really need, but Dave and Luke were always honest and never let me spend more money than I really needed to. You will never feel cheated, instead you will feel confident and more educated than when you came in. I believe that’s a true local bike shop.

Short review and long review.
Short: Be prepared to be upsold and talked down to. High-​end selection for road and XC MTB, but limited. Attitude was the big turn-​off here. Velo Pro and Hazards have same quality inventory, more of it.
Long review: Took my bike in to have bottom bracket looked at and, without looking at the bike, the mechanic on duty told me it wasn’t my bottom bracket. Told me to re-​do my dropouts then re-​try. C’mon. I’m not that big a dumb ass. Did it anyway. When that didn’t work, he told me it’s probably my seatpost and 10 other things not in the BB area, except the noise was quite obviously from there.
When he finally rode it himself he conceded its the BB. Rather than saying they can fix it, though, he says: «What you ought to do is get rid of your bike and get that Trek Commuter over there.» This came after he insisted to the previous customer that his wheel was crap and its time to upgrade to something way more hardcore than the customer wanted.
He told me he’d fix my BB and call me in 2 days. 4 days went by without word, so I went in. He told me he broke my rear dérailleur hanger dropout. 1^st of all, the bike was shifting fine when I took it in, and I have trouble seeing what the rear drop alignment has to do with a BB that creaks regardless of if the bike is being pedaled or not. Second of all, its a 1994 Cannondale. Not easy to find replacement hangers. After inquiring at length why they were messing with the rear der, they said don’t worry about it, they’d take care of it. Wasn’t happy.
Came back in about a week later, asked for my Cannondale and they said, «Ooh, bad news: we broke the dérailleur.» I was beside myself, but when I asked how they could break my bike twice, they looked confused. They were referring to a different Cannondale… that they broke.
Finally go in to pick up my bike and they try to charge me for the rear der hanger. This sparked a whole run of attitude about how my bike is too old, that I should expect things to get broken (the hanger that was on there was a replacement that wasn’t as old as the bike), and that I shouldn’t be upset they were trying to make my bike better. I wouldn’t be upset by that except I didn’t bring it in for a rear der adjustment and I don’t believe that had anything to do with the BB, which they initially argued had no problem to begin with.
In the end they charged me for just the labor. But the whole interaction combined with seeing how they treated other customers and hearing how they broke another bike is enough to make me sit here and type this review.

Based on the pictures on the website and around the store, Dave is clearly proud to be associated with Lance Armstrong. Once the customer gets over that, Fastrack is a decent shop for both enthusiasts and beginners alike.
The store is extremely unorganized, but they seemed to know where everything was. I was impressed by the fact that in terms of help with bike fit, they treated their $ 300 bike buying customers the same as their $ 1500 bike buying customers. I was less impressed that one of their sales associates tried to sell me an aluminum Trek without even asking what kind of riding I do.
They have limited inventory based on their size, but they appear more than willing to order anything you want and have it shipped to the store in a matter of days.
The mechanics’ bike knowledge seemed respectable. They were friendly and courteous, but seemed to ignore a man standing at the back of the store for some reason (maybe they knew him?).

First thing you see when you walk in the shop: a mess Second thing you see when you enter: one of 20 yellow jersey’s from the Tour De France worn by Lance Armstrong given to Dave Letteri, his chief mechanic during the 2000 TDF and owner of Fastrack Bicycles.
Although the shop appears cluttered, don’t let it fool you. It’s the best shop in Santa Barbara for the serious cyclist. Dave will give you outstanding service and tips on the local riding scene.
Every time I have visited the shop, I have walked out with a new bike, or bike part. Recently, I purchased a Campagnolo Record carbon crank and two hours later it was on my bike.
Visit Fastrack if you are a visiting cyclist or new to the area. It’s located in the heart of downtown Santa Barbara.