I figured it was time for an update on the Strada project.
I've been busy with other projects including a new TT bike battle cruiser that I will hopefully be racing on in the next couple of months. Anyways to the Bianchi. I have decided to keep it as a commuter for the time being, so I am building it up with parts I have on hand mostly. I had some mismatched wheels (yes, I put a Giant wheel on a Bianchi, I know I should be ashamed but somehow I am surviving) sitting around and an 8 speed cassette. The wheels will eventually get changed out when I get around to selling this thing. I also had some broken bar end shifters that still work as friction shifters, these got converted to downtube shifters for this project. I also managed to find (for $5 out the door) a full Shimano Sport LX drivetrain (crankset, FD, RD). The brakes are calipers I had around, but I am looking for something a little nicer and more reliable and not expensive (Saw some tektro long reach brakes for $20 on Ebay). The saddle is a very comfy Selle Italia Ladies saddle. It was around and it was free...so it goes on this bike. The bar tape was also a freebie, not the best looking stuff but it will do the job.

As for the frame, I polished it with some Maguire's ultimate compound and that took care of most of the fading and small scratches. I then took a black paint pen (from Michael's) and touched up most of the dings and scratches. There is very little I can do about the decals and the state they are in, but I will just have to live with it. Overall it has turned out very nice. It is lacking Celeste, but for a commuter I couldnt honestly care less.

It still needs a chain and to finish the brakes, but other than that it is nearly done.

So here are some pictures.