Originally Posted by gcasillo
Alright, so I've put a few miles into this bike the last couple of weeks. Got the Centaur group on it with a 50/34 compact crank to boot. I do not have a CT front derailleur yet; I did okay without it today, but I was very gentle moving the chain between the chainrings. I'll probably opt for the CT derailleur if I use the crankset during races.
The frame itself is G-R-E-A-T! Good power transfer and stiffness without being punishing. In fact, it's a super smooth ride. Surprisingly smooth. I am using the stock, alloy Bianchi seatpost, stem, and bars (Deda Piega). All are very comfortable. Just got back from a three hour ride, and I feel terrific. Only thing sore on me is my crotch, because I didn't apply chamois cream and I haven't put much time in the saddle lately. Otherwise, the fit and ride quality are superb.
As for the compact crank, I am sold. Given the rolling to hilly terrain here, it is very nice to have smaller gearing that I can spin to get over some of these short, choppy hills. If you're less than fit, live in a hilly area, or have a preference for spinning over mashing, you should give a compact crank a try.
One thing I noticed myself doing: cross chain gearing (e.g. 50-23) when at traffic lights, moving through traffic, just plain being slow. Anyone else have this problem? Is this a problem if I do it regularly? I try to keep the chain in the middle of the cogs when possible, but I felt like the jump to the 34 chainring would be too steep, and I found myself saving that shift up front for more sustained uphill sections of my ride.
Anyhow, a big thumbs up to the Bianchi Giro!
Nice review. I always wondered about that frame with carbon on both ends and aluminum main tubes.
Would you rate it as good a ride as any steel bike you have ridden?...just curious. In the back of your mind does it still feel like an AL bike albeit muted with carbon....or do you believe it rides every bit as good as steel only with the benefit of weight savings?
Thanks,
George
P.S. will add...there are many things I like about Bianchis as I believe they are very thoughtfully spec'ed at their respective price points but perhaps the biggest thing I like about the company is they sell a bike that appeals to each rider type. Many bicycle companies are good at a particular price point and/or frame material but Bianchi makes all different level bikes out of many different materials with different wheelsets and offer both Campy and Shimano. I give them credit for offering such diversity to the market place at a fair price.