Hi, I'm considering replacing my modified touring bike and have narrowed my choices down to either a Giant Dash 3 or Bianchi Camaleonte 1 for easier hill climbs and lighter frame for my commutes and pleasure rides. The gearing is slightly different between the two bikes, but on test rides, both road comfortably and took hills quite well. The Bianchi has a 5 year frame warranty vs. the Giant lifetime. Anyone have a recommendation between the two?

I wouldn't base your decision on the giants warranty..

I bought a Giant Dash 3 recently and can't say enough about it. Granted, I've only put about 250 miles on it, but it rides smooth, I can keep up with friends on road bikes (for the most part), and it's quick and light. Can't ask for more, really. There was an issue i had with the rear brake (it got bumped by a door and was out of alignment - wheel was rubbing), but my LBS fixed it in about 2 minutes.

I also looked at the camaleonte, but none of my LBS had it in stock, so I didn't actually get to try it out. Others I considered were the Kona Dew and Dew Deluxe, and the Specialized Vita. They both seemed like great bikes, but not as zippy and light as the Dash. Anyway, I highly recommend.

Haha, I feel ya!