I have the Bianchi Volpe (2009) set up as a touring bike. Rear rack for panniers, full fenders and 28cc tires. I like it just fine, but I did have issues with spokes breaking on the rear wheel after about 2,000 miles. I paid my LBS to put heavier spokes on the rear wheel. It's only been a couple of weeks now but so far so good. It came with three front sprockets and I removed one of them - I should remove both of them AND the front derailuer because I ride on flat land only and I've never gone to the small chain ring in the front - ever.