Bestiarium

Dear all,

I am currently in acquisition of a gravel bike, which will be a commuter and recreational bike for me.

I kind of got hooked to the idea of buying a Bianchi Impulso Allroad but to change the default rims it comes with (Reparto Corse CDX22, I believe those are proprietary from Bianchi) with custom Crankbrothers' Zinc 3 model.

Clearly, I would have to pay extra for this customization, but I wouldn't mind if I it made sense.

So, what do you think folks? Would a set of Zinc 3 wheels on a Bianchi be better (lighter, stiffer) than the original Reparto Corse CDX22?

Any thoughts would be appreciated.


Cheers

Lava

The Impulso Allroad is at the top of my list too! It's surprisingly hard to find reviews on it that aren't just marketing collaborations, but that seems to be the case for a lot of newer adventure bikes. Maybe they just haven't percolated into the real world quite fast enough?

In any case, the Reparto Corse CDX22 aren't the lowest end wheels, based on the options Bianchi ships bikes with (Alex rims on the lower end models), but a custom set are most likely going to be better. It would be nice to hear from someone who has experience with the CDX22 wheels, though, as they're equally hard to find specs and reviews on as the bike itself.

The Impulso Allroad isn't the best bargain of newer gravel bikes, though, so if budget is a concern, especially if you're wanting to upgrade the wheels right away, a different bike (Topstone, CaadX, etc...) would be better value. If you want it for the beautiful Bianchi design, though, then don't let a few dollars stop you! If you do get one, post photos and thoughts!

Metieval

so many bikes I am waiting on "REAL" reviews of. Especially ride reviews.

based on the bike choice wheel choice I am guessing this has a lot to do with Style being #1 . hey I am not going to knock that. I'll only advise that if you really like the Zinc 3 then find as many reviews you can, and read them objectively.

Bestiarium

Thanks for the answers Lava and Metieval. I can't hide the fact that I was primarily guided by style when I was considering Zinc 3 with Allroad Impulso. In the meanwhile I talked to the Bianchi store in Switzerland, and they are a bit hesitant to deliver me the bike with these wheels. So I reckon I will first go for the bike as it is, and acquire Zinc 3 later, as aftermarket :-)

ultrarider7

I am thinking of buying one as well. End of season sale at the local bike shop. Here's a video of someone riding one in the winter.