A Really Excellent, Very Ugly Bottle
During the 2012 Team Fatty gear pre-order, I made no secret of my enthusiasm for the new Specialized bottles with the Watergate (ha) valves. Twin Six did an awesome design to go on those bottles, and a bunch of you — like, around 500 of you — ordered some of these beauties.
The fact that we sold these bottles at no profit whatsoever (good luck finding these bottles at $8.00 anywhere else) probably had something to do with the number of orders, too.
Well, yesterday my bottles arrived. Here’s what they look like:
Um.
Ew.
Evidently, someone at Specialized thought that the black translucent bottle TwinSix ordered wasn’t a good color, and convinced them to go with silver. But on that silver bottle, the orange color looks…well, brown.
The thing is, those of you who ordered these bottles are probably starting to get them right now.
And I figure some of you, at least, are going to be a little disappointed in the way these things look.
I called the Twin Six guys, and they agreed, this is not what the bottles should look like, and they (the bottles, not the Twin Six guys) are, frankly, pretty ugly.
So, they’re going to make things right.
In fact, they’re going to make things even righter than right.
Option 1: If You Just Can’t Stand the Bottle
If you simply cannot imagine yourself ever using this bottle, email service@twinsix.com. They’ll set you up with what you need to return the bottle(s) and get a refund.
Option 2: If You Would Like an Awesome Deal
While I don’t really dig the brownish-orange-on-silver look, the fact remains that these are the best-working bottles I’ve ever had. And if you use it, you’ll like it.
So if you got one (or more) of these bottles and want to hang on to it, Twin Six is going to give you a 30%-off code toward any full-price purchase. Which means if you buy a $24 shirt, that pretty much means you got the bottle for free. And if you buy a couple of jerseys, you’ve more than made your money back in savings.
Stay tuned for details on what this code is and when you can start using it. Twin Six is getting it set up right now, and I’ll post it on the blog.
Hey, some times weird things (like brownish orange ink on a silver bottle) happens. I think it’s cool that Twin Six is making it right.
Comment by SRC | 09.29.2011 | 11:07 am
This is really sad, but Twin Six shouldn’t have to compensate us for something that wasn’t their fault. On the other hand, though, there’s a T-shirt or three of theirs that I’ve had my eye on…
Comment by Scott R | 09.29.2011 | 11:26 am
How was it not their fault? They changed the design after taking the orders, and it turned out… not up to Twin Six’s usually level of quality.
That said, this sounds like an _excellent_ job of making things right.
With the possible exception of not having an avenue to get a bottle like the one originally ordered. It would be sweet to open up a new opportunity to order these water bottles (as originally designed).
Wonder what ‘wasn’t a good color’ really meant from Specialized’s point of view.
Comment by Mike | 09.29.2011 | 11:32 am
“Making it right” would be replacing the bottles with what was ordered in a reasonable time frame.
Comment by NYCCarlos | 09.29.2011 | 11:40 am
gross.
Glad I didn’t order bottles this year. last year’s bottles go just fine with this year’s kit.
Comment by Sara | 09.29.2011 | 11:52 am
Personally, I don’t really care so much that they look like poop. I’m happy to have gotten a good water bottle at an excellent price!
And, looking on the bright side, maybe the silver color will mean that my water doesn’t get hot quite so fast here in the Houston heat.
Comment by Liz | 09.29.2011 | 12:00 pm
I’m going to make a confession here . . . I didn’t order a bottle because I’ve never paid for a bottle ever. I make do with the cheap freebies from events and bike shops. However, I was intrigued when Elden and the Fatties were waxing eloquent about how great these bottles are. Not intrigued enough to order, but curious. Now that Twin Six might find itself with some returned bottles, my curiosity has the better of me. Will there be an opportunity to order these overstocks? I’d even pay $8.
Thanks.
Comment by SRC | 09.29.2011 | 12:31 pm
Reading comprehension eluded me.
“Evidently, someone at Specialized thought that the black translucent bottle TwinSix ordered wasn’t a good color, and convinced them to go with silver.”
I thought someone at Specialized changed the color without consulting TwinSix. Whoops.
Comment by Kevin | 09.29.2011 | 12:42 pm
Considering that the logo will probably scrape off in the 1st half of the season I’m fine with mine. They LITERALLY just got here along with the rest of my Fatty stuff. Felt like Christmas!
I’m with Liz on the overstock/returns – if they have a ton sitting around after this I’ll take some off their hands ;)
I did notice that the jerseys are full zip; I thought T6 and Elden had decided to use the hidden 3/4 for this year. Not complaining, I happen to like the full zip.
Comment by Jill Homer (@AlaskaJill) | 09.29.2011 | 12:53 pm
Those bottles really aren’t that bad. The colors of the graphics don’t look much worse than they would on a typical clear plastic bottle. I’m a hydration pack person myself and rarely even use bottles, but I wouldn’t mind using one of these. Don’t downsell them! :-)
Comment by Justin L | 09.29.2011 | 1:09 pm
My regret is not ordering a few extra. Yeah the silver is kinda ugly, but i love the fatty logo. The discount coupon would be great. I wonder when we can order some left over fatty gear, and the 2012 gear.
Comment by Eric L | 09.29.2011 | 1:30 pm
We no longer love Camelback Podiums? Mon Dieu, arrêtez le monde, et me laisser hors tension!
Comment by Stephen G | 09.29.2011 | 1:35 pm
I’m in for any overstock leftovers.
Comment by bacmapei | 09.29.2011 | 2:30 pm
I feel bad for T6 on this, but silver? White or translucent would have been safer choices. An $8 credit and free shipping might be more appropriate than 30% off and/or accepting returns.
Comment by davidh-marin,ca | 09.29.2011 | 2:38 pm
The first thought I had when I read this was…”when did black become translucent?”
Are bottles now marketed like pantyhose?
Secondly it seems like another example of the corporate giant deciding what’s best for the rest of us. (that’s Specialized, in case I was obtuse)
Personally I think we need PINK bottles.
Comment by roan | 09.29.2011 | 3:25 pm
I did notice that several people reported they were receiving their orders. I didn’t order very much, only 1 FC bottle, 2 pr FC socks and a non Fatty Twin Six Tech T. The non Fatty Twin Six Tech T arrived July 22nd. OK it was a non Fatty item and probably in stock then. I looked up the invoice on-line and was shocked to see the order was complete as of 7/19/2011. I was going to call Twin Six today…until I read this posting. I’ll wait a couple of days now and I’m sure the remaining items will show.
BUT TWIN SIX if you still read these blog postings…don’t send out an invoice, and shipping notice AND a date the delivery(7/22) was made, if the order is not complete.
My 2 cents worth is worth a whole lot more headaches to Twin Six than an unauthorized color change that I can live with.
Comment by Brandy | 09.29.2011 | 4:17 pm
Twin Six as always are a class act. They didnt make the mistake the water bottle comapny did, yet are offering refunds and addtional discounts. Class acts in my book.
I am keeping the 4 I ordered, & if any more become available I would purchase more.
Kudos Fatty & Twin Six. -Brandy
Comment by Ben | 09.29.2011 | 7:36 pm
What about option #3: Missed the presale, but would love 30% off of Twin Six gear, so is willing to purchase said “Ugly Bottle” right now?
Comment by Don | 09.29.2011 | 7:36 pm
It’s maybe not the best colour option, but my closet is a testament to the fact that I really don’t care too much about such trivial things. Twin Six is going beyond what they need to do, but in the process, have ensured that I will continue to purchase from them in the future.
But all that aside, can anyone take photos of what they received? My order arrived, but to my dropship address in the US, where it will sit until I can get down to get it. Curious about how things look, especially the fleece jacket and socks.
Comment by Paul Guyot | 09.29.2011 | 7:37 pm
Okay, I too, when I first saw the bottles thought “Holy crap.that is one ugly bottle.”
But I just figured that was one of Twin Six’s Dark Collection or something.
I tried out one of the bottles today and it is hands down the GREATEST water bottle I’ve ever used. So long Camelbak Podium – you lose.
All that said, I would really, really, really love some black Fatty bottles. I’d even pay full price because these are so amazing.
Will T6 ever have any of the black ones?
Comment by Erom | 09.29.2011 | 8:01 pm
Fatty & Paul Guyot have been raving about these bottles. Frankly, I don’t see the color issues. I’ve been wanting to try one, and I’m willing to risk my wife’s threat of dismemberment if I buy another water bottle.
If any of you have any of these “ugly fugly” water bottles you don’t want and want to donate to me, I’d be much obliged.
Comment by Stephen G | 09.29.2011 | 8:56 pm
I’ll buy 4 right now without the T6 30% discount….anyone want to sell theirs?
Comment by ChrisM | 09.29.2011 | 9:11 pm
Hey, those bottles were already a steal. I’d be happy to buy some of the returned ugly bottles for $6 if Twinsix is looking for wayscto dump them? How can I make that happen?
Comment by Brandon McKinney | 09.29.2011 | 9:44 pm
Fatty, why are these type bottles so good? Please advise
Comment by Lyndon | 09.30.2011 | 12:29 am
Instant collectors item.
Comment by CBJ | 09.30.2011 | 7:42 am
You are right…the bottle works great but is, well, ugly. Gonna hang onto mine. Thanks for the heads up and I’ll wait for that code!
Comment by Lonster | 09.30.2011 | 8:04 am
I think I will paint my bike in a murdered out grey to match the bottles. Instant fashion statement.
Love the bottles – will get used to the color.
Comment by Chris | 09.30.2011 | 9:59 am
Once they’re covered in mud, who’s going to notice what color they are anyway?
Comment by lynn e | 09.30.2011 | 10:50 am
Did I mention that I love my Twin Six Fat Cyclist jersey? So flattering.
Comment by FatboyTrysATri | 09.30.2011 | 1:47 pm
I, too, would like to purchase some of the returned bottles…. If there are any, of course.
Comment by AK Chick | 09.30.2011 | 1:54 pm
Is anyone going to Austin or live in the area?
I’m trying to whittle down my travel expenses and am wondering if I can rent a room and a bathroom (I’m SUPER clean, quiet, low key, not a partier unless it involves pie and chocolate cake, no drugs, like beer and wine but not excessive).
I’d love to help someone out with some cash in their pocket instead of a hotel. I have a rental car and need a safe place to put my really, really nice Trek Madone rental bike. I would prefer to stay with a lady or a couple (I’m an old married gal, well, not really old, but, you know).
If Wife #1 lived in Austin, I’d crash her door! Especially since I love the four footed variety of transportation probably as much as the two wheeled variety.
I’m coming in with a friend on Friday the 7th early evening and we have a place rented until she leaves on the 11th.
You can email me at akchick55 at hotmail dot com. I can provide references!
Ideally it would be from October 11th through Monday the 17th (my flight leaves around 5:30 or so on Monday). I’m looking for something around $50 a night. I have reservations at hotel so I’m not homeless, but thought I’d check and see if there were any Fattys out there that might have a room and bathroom available. :)
Comment by AK Chick | 09.30.2011 | 1:54 pm
Actually, not sure why I put going to Austin. Duh.
Comment by Jfala | 09.30.2011 | 2:03 pm
Received my Fatty order two days ago, which included my silvery bottle. Was a bit shocked when I opened the package but decided to give the bottle a try regardless. The bottle works as advertised so I’ll keep it – and I agree with an earlier poster who stated that the graphics will probably rub off quickly – so the brownish-y/orange-y color won’t bother me for too long.
Thanks T6 for the discount!
Comment by Justin L. | 09.30.2011 | 2:31 pm
It sounds like we need another round of wattle bottle orders, wish i would of got a windbreaker also. A new order of wattle bottles would go great with those christmas time fatty tshirt orders.
Comment by curtis | 09.30.2011 | 6:16 pm
this is the second thing twin six has screwed up in the last week or two. that progressive sale didn’t exactly work right either if you were one of the folks that ordered within the first couple of hours after they sent out their mass email. oh yeah, and our cycling club just ordered 200 of these bottles at about $5 per bottle so someone, somewhere is making some money on these. i love twin six designs, especially the fat cyclist stuff, but it sounds like they’re getting a little too big for their britches. that email they send you when you order something says that they are only a 4 person operation, might be time to add some help if these mistakes keep happening.
Comment by Nancy S | 09.30.2011 | 8:08 pm
I plan to break in my “ugly” water bottle and get it good and muddy on single track in northern Wisconsin tomorrow. Ugly is the new beautiful!
I’ve been ordering various things from TwinSix for the last year. In fact, they are the reason I found Fat Cyclist! Since they are only a 20 minute drive from my home, I’ve even visited them to pick up an order before a bike trip. They are, indeed, a small company that does very generous things. If one takes the time to browse the archives of Fat Cyclist, one would know that TwinSix has been deeply involved in many charities.
In regards to the progressive sale a few weeks ago, where the discounts accidentally “rang up” at more than 60% rather than the max of 35% they intended, it might be helpful to know that this sale was happening at the same time as TwinSix was up to their eyeballs in all things related to Interbike in Las Vegas. So they had a programming SNAFU. They made good on it by emailing everyone and giving all “offended” parties a $20 gift certificate. Seriously, how could anyone not love them after that?
The water bottle? I can’t even believe they are offering to do anything about it. What a class act they are!
Nancy in Minneapolis
Comment by Brian | 10.1.2011 | 1:36 pm
I’m ok with the bottles, but the fatty logo on the track jacket also came out kind of brownish. I might have to back that.
Comment by Heber Chad | 10.1.2011 | 9:18 pm
The bottles are pretty ugly, but work great. Fortunately I’ll look so awesome with the full fatty kit no one will notice the bottle.
Well done Twin Six.
Comment by davidh-marin,ca | 10.1.2011 | 9:20 pm
Fatty has a Track Suit??? Does he look like Jane Lynch from Glee???
minus the hair of course
Comment by Maggi | 10.3.2011 | 7:36 am
I have to admit, I’m a little disappointed in how this year’s orders were handled. There was no communication regarding the jerseys (which are different from what was ordered– not that I mind having a full zip, but it does change the look of the jersey), and no heads-up about the bottles until Fatty posted to the blog. The Fatty folks I know don’t just buy Fatty kit and nothing else — they drop some serious change with T6, and give them a ton of word-of-mouth advertising. I know I’ve talked them up with both my friends, folks at my LBS, and random strangers who asked me where I got my cool t-shirt or jersey. I don’t just talk up T6 as good design & good quality, I talk them up as good guys with awesome customer service, and it’s kind of a disappointment to have zero communication from them on this.
Comment by curtis | 10.3.2011 | 7:56 am
i actually prefer the full zip, so had I known that the new kits were going to be full zip, i would have ordered one or two. when the presale was going on and it said 3/4 zip, i decided not to order since i don’t like them as much. this has been an issue going back a few years when i did order a full zip fatty jersey and it ended up coming with the 3/4 zip. i’m glad i got my full zip last year and everything turned out the way it was supposed to.
Comment by Brandy | 10.3.2011 | 9:24 am
The bottles match my rootbeer color Gary Fisher. I love em. I used my Fatty bottles this weekend to secure the win in my Regional MTB Championships & qualify for 2012 MTB Nationals! My new lucky bottles.
Rock on Fatty & Rock on T6!!
-Brandy
Comment by Eric Finn | 10.3.2011 | 10:18 am
This is the first year I’ve ordered FC gear and my first experience with T6. I’ve heard stories in the blogs about their great customer service and awesome products but I’ll be honest here, I’m not impressed. I only ordered two things, the jersey and water bottle and both were different than what I ordered. I received no notification that either was different.
To top it off their order tracking system is pretty crappy. I went to their site to track the status of my order in mid-Sept when I heard other folks were starting to get their orders. My order status said shipped. I gave it a week to see if it came in the mail and when nothing showed up I contacted T6 CS about it. Amazingly, two days after I contacted them the order finally shipped even though the online system had it as already shipped for at least 10 days prior to that.
I can understand that T6 is a small operation, but if they want to become a big operation they really need to do better than that. I don’t really care about the water bottle, but as a true clydesdale the full zip jersey is a problem. If they’d have notified me that it was full-zip before shipping it to me I likely would’ve changed my order.
Sorry to rant, but as a first time customer I’m not impressed by T6 at all.
Comment by Maggi | 10.4.2011 | 6:11 am
Slightly unrelated: Brandy, congrats on your regional MTB win, and good luck at next summer’s MTB Nationals!