kkunreut

Long time reader, new poster.

I've been looking for an entry-level road bike with a bit of a project feel to keep my idle hands working and I found this 2000-2002 Bianchi Brava locally on CL. Unfortunately I can't post images or the CL post, but would be happy to message anyone willing to take a look. Below is some info from the post.

"Bianchi brava - $150
Bianchi brava everything works except for the front derailleur that doesn't shift to the biggest chainring it only goes to first and second perfectly fine tires are gator skin like new rear derailleur shifts smooth 58 cm large frame 3×8 sora components"

I haven't seen the bike in person yet, but the seller claims that everything is functional with the exception of the front derailleur not being able to shift to the big ring. For $120 (what I've talked him down to), is it worth it to see if I can take a stab at fixing the derailleur/polishing this bike up? Is the frame even worth it? I did a bit of research and it seems like this frame isn't anything to write home about, but would love to get much more experienced opinions on this.

Thank you in advance.

-K

bargainguy

Sure. The 2000 Brava has a Reynolds 520 frame, Sora 3x8 brifter drivetrain. Nothing flashy, but good frame and decent components.

The front shifting issue is probably simple - lack of cable tension or incorrect limit set.

Could also be gummed up front shifter from lack of use. Easiest way to tell is to pull a handful of front shift cable away from the frame and see if it shifts into the big ring this way if the shifter won't. Gummed up shifters can be flushed with a solvent and then lubed. I like CRC Power Lube in the red can to perform both functions.

zukahn1 

I would agree that a good flush cleaning and adjustment will likely clear up the shift issues about half the 20-30 something year old Shimano triggers and Brifter's seem to have issues getting into the big ring and bigger cogs on the rear. Yet ounce cleaned up adjusted setup right and used a bit 90% seem to work just fine. I will admit though the 2000 or so Sora's are about the worst of Shimano's 8/9 speed trigger brifter stuff on the several bikes I have gotten over the years or rebuilt that had Sora's changed them for something else.

cb400bill

Pic Assist - https://bikeforums.net/g/picture/20860517

kkunreut

Thanks for the pic assist! Ended up grabbing it. Was initially told it was sold but then picked it up in the DFW area for $120. Probably a slight overpay but it's worth more to me as a project and I don't mind a bit of an overpay.

Took it on a short ride and it's operating smoothly as a 2x8. When using the front shifter, the front derailleur throws all the way to the big ring and if I hold the shifter in that position it would stay, but as soon as I release the shifter the front derailleur moves back over the 2nd ring and shifts the chain to it.

I plan on taking it to my LBS on Thursday to have them take a look at it, but am open to suggestions to see if I can fix the shifting issue now while I wait for them to open. Will post vids/pics when I hit 10 posts, unfortunately not quite there yet.

fsmcpa

Can someone please tell me what year is a Bianchi Brava with serial number H9A2 2402

Thank You

Bianchigirll 

welcome to the forums. Can you tell us a bit more about it? What color is it? What brand and model of components are on it? Is there something that shows the tubing type?

fsmcpa

Hi Bianchigirll,
Thank you for your quick reply. I am new at this and my knowledge is very limited.
The bike is blue, it has a Shimano RSX,, double butted lite steel, chrome moly fork.
I am reading this info from the stickers on the bike and the components..
I cannot upload pictures as I need 10 posts.

Thank You for your help.

Bianchigirll 

I think you a Connie Blue 1999 Brava.

https://www.bikepedia.com/QuickBike/...20&model=Brava

Bianchigirll 

Goid Morning

zukahn1 

This reads like a l slightly loose worn cable good chance a couple of turns of the quick adjuster on the lever may help fix the problem.