I stopped by my LBS today to drop off my bike for some work. While I was there I couldn't help but notice the Bianchi Milano they had on display; I've always admired it as it is a good looking bike. Before I left I asked to ride it in the parking lot.

I have to say that this bike ROCKS! I was expecting some molasses action from the internal gear hub but I didn't find any. My previous experience with the Shimano Nexus-8 hub was on an older Trek Navigator 400 bike. I have to admit that it was a comfort bike with fatter tires and a more upright position. But on the Milano the Nexus just kicks ass. The ride is certainly firm with the narrower tires but by no means bone shaking. Everything was very comfortable - even the stock saddle.

I would whole heartily recommend this bike to anyone who is seeking a low-maintenance, comfortable, quick, bike. I believe it retailed right around $600. A fantastic bargain if you ask me!

I should also add that while I own bikes that are far quicker than the Milano - there is a certain something that I can't put my finger on that brings a smile to my face. Something that makes you realize that speed isn't everything.

It is a great bike. Why would any consider buying a department store bicycle. Just keep putting those pennies away and get the Milano.

Yup! $600! Thanks for the review!
I ordered one a couple weeks ago and just picked it up two days ago and hid it at my folks house. It's an xmas present for the wife. :)
I was really suprised when i saw the cool leather grips! I had only seen it on the bianchi website since my lbs didn't have that model in stock.

there is a certain something that I can't put my finger on that brings a smile to my face. Something that makes you realize that speed isn't everything.

and i forgot to add that i completely agree with this statement. This is why i just sold my expensive road bike on ebay and ordered a Rivendell Atlantis. Pricey suckers, but they are beautiful and remind me of why we all started biking in the first place. Race style road bikes with crazy posture and materials and and out of wack attitudes was just killing the whole spirit of cycling for me. For my commuting and pleasure riding I think it will be perfect!

Don't be fooled by the cool retro looks-- Bianchi put as much R&D time and money into the Milano as they have ANY other bike they have ever made. The bike is a winner-- if you nothing about bikes, here's your bike.

Ok, so xmas came and went. This bike is awesome, the wife loves it. I am very impressed with everything about it. They did a fantastic job. And this is my first experience with internal hubs... very cool.
We have only one problem. No where for a water bottle cage! Does anyone make a water bottle cage that clamps on since there are no braze-ons? In this day and age with healthy people bringing water with them everywhere, even shorter 5 mile rides would be nice to have a water bottle. Especially in Houston!!! Any ideas? Even a cuholder maybe? :D

I'm sure there is a waterbottle holder available to put it on the handlebars - I know this is available for the recumbent bikes.

There are bottle holders available that connect to the saddle, holds two bottles.