Classic and Vintage Bicycles: What's it Worth? Appraisals and Inquiries - Need some info on my vintage Bianchi

This was passed down to me. I really don't know anything about it.

Anybody know anything about this bike? Is it worth keeping the frame and upgrading?
Any information would be appreciated.

Thanks

http://i97.photobucket.com/albums/l222/bunnywunny1/IMAG0323.jpg
http://i97.photobucket.com/albums/l222/bunnywunny1/IMAG0325.jpg
http://i97.photobucket.com/albums/l222/bunnywunny1/IMAG0326.jpg
http://i97.photobucket.com/albums/l222/bunnywunny1/IMAG0331.jpg

is that Bianchi in the states? aside from the color it looks like an '87 Brava but that color does not seem to be in the Bianchi catalog

what do youy want to upgrade? I have a Formula II frame and I like it, it rides and handles real nice. I would maybe comsider new wheels but I would not go wild with 11spd Ultegra or Sram red. if you don't use toe clips I would certanly get different pedals

And about the only up grade for ride comfort would be some STI shifters instead of the DT shifters.

And about the only up grade for ride comfort would be some STI shifters instead of the DT shifters.

I disagrre. I do not see why STI would be considered a "comfort up grade" I normally ride on the hoods of any of my bikes wether they are DT/Barcon/STI equipped bikes. the OP's bike is likely a 6spd so to 'comfort up grade' he would need, the brifters, RD, wheel(s), cassette and chain. possibly a new crankset and FD to go with the narrow 9+spd chain.

I think it is a great bike as it sits and the OP wants to upgrade for performance that is OK.

+1 bianchigirll. Whenever I hear someone talk about upgrading, the first thing that pops into my head is, "How about improving your technique first." I have no idea of the OPs experience and this comment isn't directed at him or her. But the point I'm trying to make is that just as in golf, folks want to spend money to get "improvement". A $500 driver every two years doesn't equal a better player, longer drive or anything else unless there is a commensurate improvement in the swing.

There are people on this forum that could get on that bike and leave carbon fiber in the dust.

Sorry to get on a rant, but why would you want to "upgrade" a nice bike like that. If you are racing, that probably isn't the bike to build off of anyway.

well said

Upgrade should be limited to a thorough cleaning, a lube job and fresh tires and brake pads!

Thanks for the input guys. I took it out for a short ride yesterday and it rides great. Nice and solid and shifts perfectly. I definately will not be touching the drivetrain (Other than cleaning and lube). Like others mentioned I might just replace tires, pads, cables, pedals, seat etc. and this will be a great bike.

your welcome.. but where is the bike?

One idea - considered a abomination by some - might be to put bar-end shifters on it. Take off the DT shifters, add some cable stops (my bike shop will give me DT cable stops for free after they take them off upgraded bikes, and install the barends, cable under the bar tape. You could even try upgrading the Rear derailleur side to STI (click click). If you wanted to sell as stock, just re-cable, reinstall the DT shifters and away you go. From a comfort perspective, I like the bar end shifters (reach over) vs. reaching down.... but adapting to shifters is ...after all... adaptation.

barcons would not be an abomination on this bike but more a moot point. the bike already has 105 index, aka click click, shifting. they would however just be a matter of taste.

It's very pretty for an '80s midrange kind of bike. Must be because it's Italian. I would just wash it, overhaul it, and put on some new bar tape.

I owned a Bianchi when i was younger, had it for 3+ years, best bike I've ever owned. This one is pretty bad ass too. Course, I babied mine too much, but still, thing was sweet. Nice bike, be lucky you were passed down such a wonderful street machine.

Agree with a few posters, a good cleaning, some new tires, and tewaking, should be fine.