Originally Posted by
cpsqlrwn
Doing a little research and I see that the Bianchi Eros during the mid to late 90's was only made in odd sizes (51, 53, 55, etc.). Can anyone tell me with certainty whether these size designations were c-c or c-t measurements of the seat tube? Thanks!
Center-to-Top.
However, not all Bianchi Eros bikes are the same. Some used the double-butted Dedaccai tubesets with the ovalized downtube (stiffer bottom bracket to deal with the flex of the steel frame). I think after 2002 they didn't use the SL frames with the Dedaccai tube sets from Reparto Corse.
However, my advice you might find silly.
I don't think someone can be considered a "real' cyclist until they've owned a celeste Bianchi. Eros wasn't offered in celeste for every model year, but it was in some. I think they came with Campagnolo Mirage with a triple crank and long cage rear derailleur, 9-speed I think. Great bikes. You could race on an Eros. You wouldn't win, but you could be in the race. You can tour with them as well.
As far as affordable steel bikes go you could a lot worse in terms of the frames and componentry that these came with.
An old review might be helpful:
Bicyclist: Road Test: Bianchi Eros