AC Invitational: A gathering around bikes and friends

A couple of weeks ago, Above Category hosted one of the finest and coolest events we've had the pleasure of attending—the AC Invitational. True to its name, this gathering was all about bringing the cycling community together to celebrate what we all love: beautiful bikes. 

First, I have to highlight how incredible Above Category is. Everything—interior design, bike selection, clothing, and the service department—is perfectly curated. This is not by chance. The amazing team at AC deserves full credit for creating this paradise for cyclists, where attention to detail, refined taste, and a selection of best-in-class components from the best brands come together seamlessly. 

(Inside Above category)

 

Now, let’s dive into the event itself. 

Friday, September 30: Above Category kicked things off with an afternoon ride, followed by pizza back at the shop. Around 50 participants—including customers, friends, staff, builders, and brands—came together to ride the Marin Headlands. The gravel ride offered a mix of fun trails, smooth pavement, punchy climbs, and stunning views of the Bay Area (you can check out the route here: Strava). But what really made the day special wasn’t just the terrain or the scenery—it was the people. Riding alongside the people we admire in the industry, those we collaborate with daily, and customers who love and support brands like Scarab, was the true highlight.  

After the ride, we returned to the shop for pizza, beer, and—of course—endless conversations about bikes. 

   

           

Saturday, October 1: The main event. At 11 AM, the show opened with a format I truly love—high-end bikes casually displayed right on the street. We’re used to seeing these kinds of bikes in perfectly curated showrooms with strategic lighting. While that has its charm, there’s something special about seeing these creations in their natural habitat—the street. It made them feel more real, more human, reminding us that these bikes are meant to be ridden and enjoyed. And the backdrop of a perfectly sunny day in Sausalito, with its refined yet casual atmosphere, added an extra layer of magic. 

The event was open to the public, and it drew a wonderfully diverse crowd—cyclists, tourists, customers, friends, families, fellow bike builders, and other brands. It was a big celebration of cycling, an atmosphere Above Category has carefully cultivated for years—centered on passion, excelence and a rider-centric approach. 

 

(AC Invitational Bike Show, Sausalito, CA)

 The show wrapped up around 5 PM, and after packing up, we joined the participating brands and AC staff at The Joinery across the street. A well-deserved chicken sandwich, a few beers, and some hearty laughs over dinner capped off the day. But for me, it was far from a casual meal. Sitting among such a select group of builders and brands, sharing insights and receiving appreciation for our work—it’s something that fills me, and the Scarab team, with pride.

On this photo: (No22, Baum, Sarto, Mosaic, Bastion, Prova, Partington, Lightweight, Factor, Scarab)

 

We are incredibly grateful to the AC staff for putting together this unforgettable event. Thanks to all the supporting brands for creating such a unique atmosphere, and to the cycling community for showing up and making it truly special. 

 

(AC Crew and friends that volunteered for the event)

Hasta la proxima! 

Santiago Toro