joeyc

A few days back I ordered a Scattante Americano from Performance. The price was attractive ($299 with shipping to store and tax), as was the shop build, and lifetime adjustments. Now I am starting to think I won't be pleased with it and should have waited to see what else becomes available over the next two months. I know BD has some new offerings on the way (Kilo TT, Phantom Uno).

The bike is on back order until the middle of August, so I believe I should be able to cancel the order if need be. Should I reconsider? I am looking for an affordable single speed (sub $400) that I can rely on and enjoy riding on a regular basis. I almost feel I should scoop up an older road bike and convert it myself - I'd learn more. I just swapped the fork and removed the front derailleur on my Gary Fisher Mtn Bike and learned more in 3 hours than I had in the previous 5 years of ownership.

maddyfish

Did you get a chance to try one out in person, or was this an internet order? It looks to me about the same as the BD offerings. If you got to try it out in person and liked it, you might as well stick with it.

joeyc

I didn't get to try one out unfortunately. I am away from home (have been for 5 months), but will be returning next week - which is why it is being shipped to the local store. Where I am currently, there is no store anywhere close by.

Yes, from the limited information/reviews, it seems to be on par with the BD offerings. It has decent frame (although ugly decals), nice (although heavy) wheels, crappy tires, crappy seat - but you get what you pay for. I thought about a new build, Jamis Sputnik or even an IRO build, but I can't get myself to spend $600-900 on a single speed/fixed gear bike. At that point, I'd rather spend $1000 or more on a 105 equipped road bike.

middy

You'd end up spending more on a conversion, most likely. It seems like a decent bike for the money if you're looking for "an affordable single speed". You could probably flip it on craigslist for what you paid (or just a little less) if you don't like it.

Thetank

If you're shopping at performance they also carry the Scwhinn Madison and that's IMO a much better bike.

joeyc

Thanks for the response Middy. I am looking for an affordable single speed. Ideally, I'd like a road bike, but that is not going to happen any time soon. Spending $300 or so on a decent single speed is more realistic.

I guess you're right, if I don't like it, I could always sell it. I'm not sure why I am over thinking this.

joeyc

I like the look of the Madison, and from what I have read, it seems like a great bike. However, that is more like $500 and about $150 over what I want to spend at this time.