Bianchi USA Inc. Veloce

Price Paid:  $1000.00 at lbs

Favorite Ride:
My commute

Bike Setup:
Mainly stock, Profile stem with a slight rise. WTB SST mountain saddle (see below).

Summary:
More bike than I was originally looking for (in both price and features), but this bike gives me more pleasure every time I ride it.

Purchased in early 2003 as a 2002 leftover. I guess I got lucky, as this is the last year this frame was steel. I was a long time MTBer looking to purchase a commuter bike, my work moved close enough to make for a reasonable occasional commute (20 mi one-way). Walked into the LBS, told him my requirements (size requirements, steel frame, double front ring, etc). I was actually looking for one of those straight-bar hybrid "street" bikes. LBS guy pointed to this yellow and blue beauty hanging in the window. It was more than I wanted to spend, but a great deal. I couldn't pass it up.

The saddle was too narrow for my big fat butt (6'3", 200+). I swapped in a WTB saddle that I have on my MTB. Much better. I had a hard time getting used to the tuck position after 10 years riding upright MTBs, so LBS fitted me with a slight ride Profile stem.

I love my new commuter bike and my commute! I still get a little freaked out on high speed descents on the skinny tires and tuck position. I also get weirded out when feeling the carbon fork deflect on rough roads. I'm afraid I'm going to break this work of art. But she's not as fragile as she appears, and I am enjoying the smooth ride and overtaking other riders on the road as much as bombing a rocky rooty NE singletrack downhill on the MTB!

Strengths:
Comfortable, fast, fun. Campy!

Weaknesses:
I don't know. Heavy? I've heard others say this. I have no benchmark for comparison. A couple no-name components.

Similar Products Used:
None. Surly 1x1 singlespeed, Santa Cruz Bullit.

Price Paid:  $1400.00 at Westerville Bike Sho

Favorite Ride:
The Great Buckeye Challenge

Summary:
Although a newbie to road racing and triathlons, I tried out a multitude of racing bikes, both triathlon and road racing. For the price range, I believe that I bought the best bike I could. The steel frame makes the rides much smoother, but of course adds weight. It has given me the biggest adrenaline rush that I have ever had storming by competitors and flying during sprints. Campagnolo components are AWESOME. It is great for both touring and racing. Worthy for future upgrades. I put more miles on my bike than I do my car and I do a lot of driving; each extra mile on it makes me feel more in tune with this machine. I can't wait to test this bike out in a full ironman coming up soon. I thoroughly enjoy my bike.

Strengths:
Campy components are very smooth and crisp. Geometry is great. Steel adds for a very smooth ride. Durable frame.

Weaknesses:
A bit heavy because of the steal-- sacrificing weight for comfort.

Similar Products Used:
Bianchi eros.