RFC

Here is my now finished Bianchi Randonneur.

I fought my instincts and kept it largely stock except for the 700 wheels and the right bar end shifter. The ARX components are actually very smooth.

I took it out for a quick 20 this morning before family started to congregate. It is a very different ride. Although I love the look of touring bikes, I really don't like the belabored dull ride. This ride is neither tourer or crit bike. The long trail is very noticeable at first and feels tiller like at lower speeds. As speed increases, the bike tracks very well and even allows someone as clumsy and me to ride for some distance no hands. However, when you start to hammer, it reacts much more quickly than a tourer and corners well.

Now, your advice please. I have included pics with my "Rando" bag and with racks (just placed on wheels for the photo). What do you prefer? As for me, while I like the rack look, I also think it looks a little affected (What, C&V affected!) to ride around with two empty racks.

A good 4th to all.

RFC

Italuminium

Ah, the independence of bicycle touring. I like it though! My only gripe is that the decals look a bit to modern compared to the bar tape... But I think it looks great with the racks! many people forget that bianchi probably builds a lot more bikes with racks and lights in the form of city bikes or sporty tourers, but they rarely leave Italy.

thenomad

If you're going to USE the rear rack then leave it on, it sucks to take it on and off. If you're not using the rear rack (on your commute or whatever) then leave it off.

Seems pretty poseur to ride around all racked up and never intending to use them.

-holiday76

i agree that racks arent something i'd have on for looks. that said if you plan to use them they look great to me.