Originally Posted by
Caliwild
Since Bianchi uses odd numbers, I figured I'd be a 55 or 57. But I guess I'll go try them on.
I have the exact same bike. I am 6'1", and ride a 57. I'd guess a 55 is about right for you. I remember hearing that Bianchi, in general, uses a slightly longer effective top tube length than typical. Not sure how true that is, but I wouldn't want anything bigger than a 57, to be sure. Also, my frame came with a 120mm stock stem. A little longer than normal. 100 mm and the reach is good.
Since I have your attention, here's another question. If I were to buy a bike with 105 components instead of higher-end Shimano components would I regret the decision down the line? I think an upgrade of wheels might be money better-spent.
IMO you can't go wrong with 105 at the level you're considering. Good value. Works great. You get 10 speed. Not as expensive to replace cassettes and such as Ultegra would be, and you'd want DA to notice real improvement in shifting in weight (and that stuff is expensive, to me).
As for whoever said it was a particularly harsh-riding frame, I strongly disagree. Not the cushiest around, but I like it fine on our , uh, spotty roads. It's actually not fully aluminum, either. Besides, wheel choice, tire pressure, and riding style probably influence ride quality more at this price point, anyhow. People love the CAADs, but I don't think they'd praise its ride quality, in any case.
The price of Bianchi's, at MSRP, is a little inflated. If you got as last-year's model, it could be a good value. The frame is nice enough, but it's not even full 105 (at least mine wasn't when I got it; I think they changed that recently) You will need a new crank and BB soon, if you ride much. Those specs were low-level FSA crap. pretty awful. The nicer BB and crank I have nice I perceptibly better and more durable.
All in all, I'm very happy with the Via Nirone, and 105 more than suffices for my use. Going on 2 years of all-weather (including winter) use, and the shifting is dependable with next to no work in that time period. Replace cassettes and chains, and adjust the derailleurs via the barrels when they need it.
The most important thing is to get a bike you like and that will inspire you to ride it. Then, make sure the fit is good. You can do it on your own, but that can take a lot of trial and error.