I'm guessing they were trying to sell you a Haro Sport Hybrid. It looks like the Aeras ($520) and the Rivon ($630) are pretty similar. The Aeras has a 3x7 drivetrain (though it does at least have a cassette and not a freewheel) and mechanical disc brakes, while the Rivon has a 3x8 drivetrain and nicer Shimano hydraulic disc brakes. They seem like good bikes for the price, but not mind-blowing good, and it really shouldn't matter anyway, as you liked how the Bianchi felt more than the Haro.