Bianchi help, please!
07-25-18, 05:17 PM
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Bianchi help, please!
I'm searching for my first C&V bike and have settled in on Bianchi, sort of. Pretty trivial and truly uneducated reasons why but, here I am. I am having trouble researching Bianchi models, years of production, country of production/assembly and specifics of construction. I have tried, various ways, to Google "Bianchi bicycle history" only to end up at Bianchi company website, reading a very vague timeline and list of company sponsored riders. For instance, there is plenty of info for Schwinn. Entry level models, mid level up to Paramount and all the specifics of construction that sets them apart. I am looking to learn more about frame construction, in general, and the differences in tubing composition. What years did Bianchi use CroMo tubing and in what models? I know these details have to be available, I'm just having trouble finding them. Unfortunately, I spend way too much time working and time in front of the computer, just wandering aimlessly, is very hard to come by. Any help, from you guys, in streamlining my quest for answers is greatly appreciated.
07-25-18, 05:28 PM
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I'm no Bianchi expert but they were likely the most prolific Italian builders and they made massive numbers of bikes suited to different markets at many price points. Maybe a good point to start is with your budget? Or which period attracts you?
I had an 85-ish Japanese Bianchi with 022 tubes and campy drops that was sublime. Maybe you really want a classic celeste bike out of the Reparto Corse shop. There's a lot of bikes out there and there's really no central website that covers it in one place that I've ever seen.
I had an 85-ish Japanese Bianchi with 022 tubes and campy drops that was sublime. Maybe you really want a classic celeste bike out of the Reparto Corse shop. There's a lot of bikes out there and there's really no central website that covers it in one place that I've ever seen.
Last edited by clubman; 07-25-18 at 05:31 PM.
07-25-18, 06:00 PM
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get the paid member ship......post a wtb (want to buy) in the for sale section...... 58cm iirc from your other posts and see what shows up, you could be surprised
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Life is too short not to ride the best bike you have, as much as you can
(looking for Torpado Super light frame/fork or for Raleigh International frame fork 58cm)
Life is too short not to ride the best bike you have, as much as you can
(looking for Torpado Super light frame/fork or for Raleigh International frame fork 58cm)
07-27-18, 11:47 AM
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dude here you go for some things in your area.... better pull the trigger.....or you never will
$300 bianchi....not the celest green by good components
https://dallas.craigslist.org/sdf/bi...642295463.html
$750 japanese over your budge but very nice..... just ride it
https://dallas.craigslist.org/dal/bi...626308181.html
$300 bianchi....not the celest green by good components
https://dallas.craigslist.org/sdf/bi...642295463.html
$750 japanese over your budge but very nice..... just ride it
https://dallas.craigslist.org/dal/bi...626308181.html
__________________
Life is too short not to ride the best bike you have, as much as you can
(looking for Torpado Super light frame/fork or for Raleigh International frame fork 58cm)
Life is too short not to ride the best bike you have, as much as you can
(looking for Torpado Super light frame/fork or for Raleigh International frame fork 58cm)
07-27-18, 12:45 PM
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You can find good info on 80s Bianchis reading catalogs at bulgier.net bulgier.net - /pics/bike/catalogs/
07-29-18, 11:54 AM
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I'm searching for my first C&V bike and have settled in on Bianchi, sort of. Pretty trivial and truly uneducated reasons why but, here I am. I am having trouble researching Bianchi models, years of production, country of production/assembly and specifics of construction. I have tried, various ways, to Google "Bianchi bicycle history" only to end up at Bianchi company website, reading a very vague timeline and list of company sponsored riders. For instance, there is plenty of info for Schwinn. Entry level models, mid level up to Paramount and all the specifics of construction that sets them apart. I am looking to learn more about frame construction, in general, and the differences in tubing composition. What years did Bianchi use CroMo tubing and in what models? I know these details have to be available, I'm just having trouble finding them. Unfortunately, I spend way too much time working and time in front of the computer, just wandering aimlessly, is very hard to come by. Any help, from you guys, in streamlining my quest for answers is greatly appreciated.
I suspect Bianchi started using Chromoly as soon as it was developed into bike tubing. For a begining rider you not likely to really notice the different from a full ChroMoly frameand a mix of ChroMoly main tubes and Manganese or HiTen stays but it will still be a nice rider.
The same general principles for buying any quality bike are the same for Bianchi. Look for bikes with down tube mounted shifters and quick release aluminum wheels.
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“One morning you wake up, the girl is gone, the bikes are gone, all that's left behind is a pair of old tires and a tube of tubular glue, all squeezed out"
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“One morning you wake up, the girl is gone, the bikes are gone, all that's left behind is a pair of old tires and a tube of tubular glue, all squeezed out"
Sugar "Kane" Kowalczyk
07-31-18, 12:15 PM
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Thanks for the input, Bianchigirll! Every bit helps. I posted the following on my other thread:
Man, life sure gets in the way, sometimes. So, out of 5 bikes, on local CL, I got one timely reply that the bikesold and they forgot to delete the post. Two others just informed me that the post was deleted, days later. Two others never responded. Yes, I did start another thread specifically for guidance on Bianchi. For various reasons, the brand is tugging at me. Funny (not haha, though) how this all started with a potential $50 Kabuki that it seemed no one wanted. Now I am contemplating a $200 budget (gotta talk myself down outta the tree!) and an elaborate scheme to get it past my wife's discerning eye! Nope, not completely set on a Bianchi. I realize I need to crawl before walking. Saving all my change, ebaying some motorcycle parts and keeping my eyes wide open so that when that "good deal on a good bike" comes along, I CAN pull the trigger. All you guys, and gals, have contributed a wealth of knowledge and information and I am forever grateful. Yes squirtdad, I plan on buying the membership and posting WTB's. I will let you know what I end up with. I am a mechanic, by trade, and really want something that requires some work and TLC. Hopefully it will be something that I can post the before, after and buildup along the way. I'm quite sure I will seek further expertise and guidance along the way.
Man, life sure gets in the way, sometimes. So, out of 5 bikes, on local CL, I got one timely reply that the bikesold and they forgot to delete the post. Two others just informed me that the post was deleted, days later. Two others never responded. Yes, I did start another thread specifically for guidance on Bianchi. For various reasons, the brand is tugging at me. Funny (not haha, though) how this all started with a potential $50 Kabuki that it seemed no one wanted. Now I am contemplating a $200 budget (gotta talk myself down outta the tree!) and an elaborate scheme to get it past my wife's discerning eye! Nope, not completely set on a Bianchi. I realize I need to crawl before walking. Saving all my change, ebaying some motorcycle parts and keeping my eyes wide open so that when that "good deal on a good bike" comes along, I CAN pull the trigger. All you guys, and gals, have contributed a wealth of knowledge and information and I am forever grateful. Yes squirtdad, I plan on buying the membership and posting WTB's. I will let you know what I end up with. I am a mechanic, by trade, and really want something that requires some work and TLC. Hopefully it will be something that I can post the before, after and buildup along the way. I'm quite sure I will seek further expertise and guidance along the way.
07-31-18, 12:30 PM
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what about these 2 the post are still up????
I know the green one is way above OP targlet, but the other one could be cheaper over all by not needing as much stuff as a cheaper bike
I know the green one is way above OP targlet, but the other one could be cheaper over all by not needing as much stuff as a cheaper bike
dude here you go for some things in your area.... better pull the trigger.....or you never will
$300 bianchi....not the celest green by good components
https://dallas.craigslist.org/sdf/bi...642295463.html
$750 japanese over your budge but very nice..... just ride it
https://dallas.craigslist.org/dal/bi...626308181.html
$300 bianchi....not the celest green by good components
https://dallas.craigslist.org/sdf/bi...642295463.html
$750 japanese over your budge but very nice..... just ride it
https://dallas.craigslist.org/dal/bi...626308181.html
__________________
Life is too short not to ride the best bike you have, as much as you can
(looking for Torpado Super light frame/fork or for Raleigh International frame fork 58cm)
Life is too short not to ride the best bike you have, as much as you can
(looking for Torpado Super light frame/fork or for Raleigh International frame fork 58cm)
08-01-18, 08:08 AM
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I am trying to find if I missed it somewhere....what size bike are you looking for? I may have something for you, that will be ok with your wife and your budget. Allow you something to work on, and scratch that Bianchi itch.
08-06-18, 08:29 AM
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And thanks squirtdad. I agree with you about the purple Bianchi posted, it's just hard to come up with an "undetectable" $300 for the initial purchase. I am the sole source of income in our household and its easier for me to have a smaller initial purchase and slowly funnel money into it for refurbishing and upgrades. I won't go into the complications of my marriage but being on the bike also doubles as a healthy excuse to be out of the house for some "me time".
BTW, I spent a little time over the weekend corresponding with someone local, to me, about some bikes listed on local CL. Posted pics of several bikes (20+) and I noticed Motobecane, Fuji and Peugeot in the mix. Got excited to go peruse the assortment only to be told that all but one or two undesirables were 8 hours away. I gave him my desired specs and he is supposed to compile a list of what he has that might fit the bill. Of course, time will tell. If it pans out, I will gladly share his contact info.
08-06-18, 09:01 AM
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Since you are a mechanic, consider starting with a bare frame that you can build up with whatever parts you wish for a 1st effort. Try to locate a Bicycle Co-op near you for a source of low cost components. Often, frames are for sale with their headset and bottom bracket or even more parts. (stem, bars, levers, brakes). Some frames just need a set of wheels.
My one and only Bianchi is a "Trofeo" model, bare frame, I picked up cheap while walking to my car after a swap meet in Seattle. Just said "Nice frame set" to a guy & he offered it low because failed to sell
Don
My one and only Bianchi is a "Trofeo" model, bare frame, I picked up cheap while walking to my car after a swap meet in Seattle. Just said "Nice frame set" to a guy & he offered it low because failed to sell
Don
08-06-18, 10:29 AM
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I sent you a PM...if it will help you get some help, I have a frame and fork that Ibwould be willing to give you for the cost of shipping.
It was was the first frame that I built up and if it can help someone else get into bikes and health...great.
It was was the first frame that I built up and if it can help someone else get into bikes and health...great.
08-30-18, 08:19 AM
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...There are tonnes of great older Bianchi bikes out there and most are great riders.
I suspect Bianchi started using Chromoly as soon as it was developed into bike tubing. For a begining rider you not likely to really notice the different from a full ChroMoly frameand a mix of ChroMoly main tubes and Manganese or HiTen stays but it will still be a nice rider.
The same general principles for buying any quality bike are the same for Bianchi. Look for bikes with down tube mounted shifters and quick release aluminum wheels.
I suspect Bianchi started using Chromoly as soon as it was developed into bike tubing. For a begining rider you not likely to really notice the different from a full ChroMoly frameand a mix of ChroMoly main tubes and Manganese or HiTen stays but it will still be a nice rider.
The same general principles for buying any quality bike are the same for Bianchi. Look for bikes with down tube mounted shifters and quick release aluminum wheels.
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Capo: 1959 Modell Campagnolo, S/N 40324; 1960 Sieger (2), S/N 42624, 42597
Carlton: 1962 Franco Suisse, S/N K7911
Peugeot: 1970 UO-8, S/N 0010468
Bianchi: 1982 Campione d'Italia, S/N 1.M9914
Schwinn: 1988 Project KOM-10, S/N F804069
"Far and away the best prize that life offers is the chance to work hard at work worth doing." --Theodore Roosevelt
Capo: 1959 Modell Campagnolo, S/N 40324; 1960 Sieger (2), S/N 42624, 42597
Carlton: 1962 Franco Suisse, S/N K7911
Peugeot: 1970 UO-8, S/N 0010468
Bianchi: 1982 Campione d'Italia, S/N 1.M9914
Schwinn: 1988 Project KOM-10, S/N F804069
08-30-18, 09:02 AM
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Here is a link to a PDF of the 1987 Bianchi catalouge https://velobase.com/CatalogScans/1987Bianchi.pdf , give you a good reference of the mid to late 80's models, as many of tose years used very similar set ups. I can also vouch for the ride quality of the mid grade Bianchis, especially the higher end formula 2, like that purple Bianchi limited which I would not hesitate to buy for $300, It's one of most fun bikes Ive ridden, all shimano 600! There are a few different grades of 'Formula 2' the difference being mainly in what steel the stays are made from, the ride quality of the Limited is very close to the Columbus SL/SP in Bianchis higher models
09-03-18, 06:10 AM
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Here is a link to a PDF of the 1987 Bianchi catalouge https://velobase.com/CatalogScans/1987Bianchi.pdf , give you a good reference of the mid to late 80's models, as many of tose years used very similar set ups. I can also vouch for the ride quality of the mid grade Bianchis, especially the higher end formula 2, like that purple Bianchi limited which I would not hesitate to buy for $300, It's one of most fun bikes Ive ridden, all shimano 600! There are a few different grades of 'Formula 2' the difference being mainly in what steel the stays are made from, the ride quality of the Limited is very close to the Columbus SL/SP in Bianchis higher models
