DanoM wrote:I have an older Strega like Jim's with that flex on the front. Glad that they have addressed it in newer versions, but it's never been a problem on my machine so far.

My wife does notice it, because she stands to the side of the machine when I pull. I rarely notice the minimal flex, but what I do notice is the lovely espresso!!!

If you become a lever convert you'll be hooked for life!
Be Ye Fore Warned!

Looking forward to that kind of addiction!
Thanks!

drgary wrote:1st-Line Equipment sells the Strega.They're in Freehold, NJ.

Thank you much for the pointer--I did buy a grinder from 1st Line--very happy with this vendor---BUT--wondering if there are any vendors around Chicago offering a Strega--also wondering if there are any stores around Chicago selling high-end espresso machines, grinders, etc. ?

Your listing shows you located in the Bronx!

Yes....of late, I'm around Chicago..... .

Probably should revise location ...

Double Helix
Chicago seems to be a desert with no specialty Coffee equipment
retail/consumer shops , no 1st Line, no Clives etc..There are some commercial repair companies in the suburbs- they go into the restaurants and cafes but no local dealers. Amazing but this the current scene Some expert HB people live in Chicago and there are some good indie coffee roasters

doublehelix wrote:Yes....of late, I'm around Chicago..... .

Dave, I'll be happy to answer questions you may have offline...to the best of my ability.
I'm not quite as technical as some, but I have taken mine apart several times...for grins to see all, and a couple for minor servicing. The beauty with MOST spring levers...or any lever for that matter...even with a pump, is the ability to service DIY.

Rob-
Thank you! I'm going to take you up on your offer when I'm stateside.Writing from China--coffee is very good here, and the tea--I guess I'll save these thoughts for another website......
Just also noticed the Profitec 800.....but seems to me that given what mavens here have written and the innovation that the Strega brings to the table that this will make it a fun machine for me to play with. The Strega appears to be functional funky.

Dave

Barb wrote:Double Helix
Chicago seems to be a desert with no specialty Coffee equipment
retail/consumer shops , no 1st Line, no Clives etc..There are some commercial repair companies in the suburbs- they go into the restaurants and cafes but no local dealers. Amazing but this the current scene Some expert HB people live in Chicago and there are some good indie coffee roasters

Barb-
Indeed!!!! Does seem odd. Seems like a great opportunity for a business. Seattle folks hunker down from the grey gloom with coffee and a whole industry has emerged from there. It's time for Chicagoans to do the same.

-Dave

Wanna open a business here ?
Yes it is odd. There are a few companies which service the restaurant industry but do not advertise for the prosumer or consumer.
I am not adept with nuts, bolts and such in any shape or way so I am in awe of these fellows on line in HB who so nimbly take apart their espresso appliances. I look at the diagrams for my Strega and wonder how these guys figure out all the bits and peices. Worse than the "1000 peice puzzles" you can purchase for pure frustration. <g>
Do wish there was a good shop here instead of al of them clustered on either coast.

Will share as a new Strega owner , I am delighted with the consistency of shots pulled, the flavor and the fun of pulling the shots on the Strega. Warning: This machine is addictive. If you purchase your caffeine intake will sky rocket and you will feel blissful (that is what drugs do )