Originally Posted by
livedarklions
I have to ask--you preferred the frame that failed while still under warranty? Why? Not a sarcastic question, I'm just curious about your reasoning, which I fully expect to be sound and I suspect reflects an interesting story,
There are a couple reasons why I liked the 2006 frame better than the 2013 frame. The 2006 frame was painted which looked much better than the powder coated 2013 frame. The welds were finished on the 2006, unlike the welds on the 2013.
2006-- Bianchi replaced the frame for this small crack. Note the welds, and quality of the paint job. Once I got used to the color, I really liked it. The crack is located where the top tube connects to the the head tube.
2013-- The welds were neat but they look like someone forgot to finish them. The powder coat finish was rough until I rubbed it down with some polishing compound.
The main thing why I like the 2006 is that it was the bike I rode across the US, and other memorable tours. It served me well. Some things I like about the 2013 are the fork has rack mounts on the fork blade, and I could get a 57.5 cm frame rather than the 58 cm. With my build, I appreciate the shorter top tube even if it is only a small amount.