i just sold a pista i had for a year and change. the only reason i got rid if it was to make room for new bikes, but i miss it. i found the ride to be actually really nice in a springy lively steel sorta way. the steep angles made for quick precise handling.
i did upgrade the headset and bottom bracket and had the wheels retensioned. after that it was basically bombproof.
it was my only ride with track geometry and i'm quickly realizing how much i liked it.
for 550$ it's gotta be one of the best deals in cycling period.
I do have IRO wheels on a bike and they're definitely nicer and smoother than the stock pista wheelset. Great mom and pop setup with great customer service.