BERKELEY, Calif. (BRAIN) — At least a handful of major suppliers to Wrench Science have received emails from the retailer informing them of an impending closure.
The California e-commerce retailer focuses on high-end complete bikes. Its website appears to be still operating, but the company has not returned several emails and phone messages left by BRAIN. BRAIN was unable to find any court records of a bankruptcy filing.
Two suppliers shared an email they received from Wrench Science’s accounting department, which said in part,
“I am reaching out to inform you that Wrench Science will be closing our operations. As part of our closing process, we are reviewing outstanding balances and would like to arrange the return of remaining products to be applied toward our account.
“Please provide an RA# to return the items listed on the attached sheet.
“We appreciate your support over the years and want to ensure a smooth transition for all parties involved.”
Colnago America released a press release offering support to customers who may have ordered a Colnago from Wrench Science but not received it, or who needed service on a bike they bought.
“We recognize that this news may create uncertainty, particularly for those who have placed orders or were considering a purchase through them.
“Please know that you are not navigating this alone. At Colnago, our commitment extends beyond crafting world-class bicycles—we stand behind our riders, ensuring they receive the support and solutions they deserve. If you have concerns regarding outstanding orders or service issues related to a Colnago product from Wrench Science, we encourage you to contact us directly. Our team is poised to assist, working diligently to provide viable alternatives that meet your needs.”
Mike Gann, the president and CEO of LOOK USA, said, “Our concern, beyond the payable, is making sure any riders caught with a deposit on an order or related is made whole, and we are monitoring a case involving a rider who had a Look bike on order.”
A supplier told BRAIN that they appreciated the heads-up from Wrench Science and the offer to return inventory as partial payment of past-due invoices. The supplier said other major retailers that have closed recently have not made that outreach effort.
Tim Medina founded Wrench Science in 1999. It grew to become one of the largest suppliers of high-end road, mountain bike and triathlon bikes, offering custom-built bikes to customers worldwide. The company developed software that allowed customers to easily find their correct size and spec the bike to their preference. Its major brands include Pinarello, Colnago, Ibis, Argon18, Wilier, LOOK, Parlee, Niner and others.
BRAIN toured Wrench Science on a Dealer Tour of the Bay Area in 2013.
