jaguiler

Hello everyone,

I do not post much - nor read much, until lately. I used to train and race back in the late 80's and early 90's - I sold my old race bike quite a while back and I have my training bike (steel), with the old 80's technology and 7 speed friction shifting. I wanted to get back into weekend riding, fast and spirited - for health and fun. I may venture into a road race, depending on conditioning next year (2015).

Question -

I am looking to purchase a 2014 Cinelli Experience (Veloce) OR a Bianchi Impulso (105) - I would be a 55 in the Bianchi, and more than likely a Med. in the Cinelli. I have ridden the Bianchi and liked it. It was the first AL bike I have ridden. I have not ridden the Cinelli, but have always wanted a Cinelli and Campy. The reviews are positive -

Any thoughts from anyone that has experience with both or either one ??



Thank you in advance - I look forward to reading your responses. I am in the USA - and the Cinelli would be mail ordered, the Bianchi is in a LBS. I am hoping the LBS will not shun me for not getting one of their bikes.

John

AndyK 

I had an Experience - great frame for the money, but, VERY stiff = jarring on rougher roads. Still, nice frame and well designed.

Bottom bracket shell is BSA threaded (not Italian), I assume due to the Asian manufacture point?

RollCNY

I have a Cinelli Xperience, which is the frame version before the Experience. I would mirror what AndyK said, in that it is a brutally stiff frame. I run Velocity A23 rims with 25's, and that is about the only way I have made it tolerable for 50 mile plus rides. That said, it also rides like a scalpel, tight, responsive, and if you jump on it, it responds greatly. I remember reading threads years ago about what a fabulous crit frame it is. No experience with the Bianchi, so can't compare for you.

jaguiler

If you click on the picture - the two I am comparing are in it. Visually - I am really attracted to the Bianchi - dream wise - I have always wanted a Cinelli (with Campy) - even though these are the "newer ones" and not the classics of the 80's. I rode the Bianchi (with Shimano) and it felt great - I did not ride the Cinelli - so I am stuck in following the dream or reality. Reality costs a bit more - but from my LBS. I am thinking if I get the Bianchi - I will spend the following year upgrading components to Campy (drivetrain) and Cinelli (seat post, bars, stem)

IcySmooth52

Have you ridden Campy before?

Due to costs, I wouldn't buy one of those just to change out components. I'd recommend saving up and getting a model with the stock components you want. WAY cheaper in the long-run. (Even with eBay selling the un-wanted stock.)

jaguiler

Campy I rode was in my racing days - late 0's early 90's. I have it on an old steel frame, and I am pleased with it. The Cinelli has Campy, stock.