Okay, my Bianchi Fretta (Birdy) arrived today. Upon inspection, it appears that the bike had been used as a demo/errand bike for three years. But for what I paid for it, I cannot complain. Compared to other Birdies, the Fretta has a few improvements, like an adjustable stem, and a better spec seat post. The Fretta also had some upgrades, like an improved latch for the stem, and a matching seat clamp. Quite surprisingly, most the hardware has been replaced with titanium. The shifter and rear mech are Acera 8 speed components.

One thing which I did not like was that the Fretta was fitted with one of the new style road racer seats, very long, and very narrow. Never in my life have I sat on such an uncomfortable seat. I have ridden almost daily for decades, and thought that my backside would be as immovable as iron to any bike seat, but such is not the case. After an hour on the Fretta, I had to get off. I will pick up a Brooks B-17 on Friday.

I bought this bike with the intention of upgrading for all-around use, including pulling a kid's trailer. I have ordered a set of 20" wheels, and brake adapters. Today I ordered a XTR 12-32 cog, and a Dura Ace chain, tomorrow I will pick up a XTR M986 rear mech. I still need to order a shifter. I hope to get these mods installed by Monday. Later mods will be an upgrade of the crankset and brakes.

There were a few immediate differences I noticed compared to my old Brompton. First, the Fretta was noticeably lighter, it weighs roughly the same as my road bike. Next, as soon as I started riding the Fretta, I found that it was noticeably faster. My Brompton was a bare-bones bike, and was fitted with Kodaks inflated to 120 psi. The Fretta is fitted with all-weather standard tires inflated to 80 psi. The difference in speed is probably attributable to the lighter weight and larger diameter wheels.

I will post some photos next week.