Originally Posted by skanking biker
If you are referring to the Bianchi Pista, its not popular here, but it got me into fixed riding at a reasonable price---no major probems after 7 months, althogh I am slowling upgrading various parts.
it's a decent frame, you just need some decent parts on it is all. i think it's unpopular because off the shelf bikes aren't set up with great parts, and yes, 550 for a new pista isn't something i'd pay. i would have at one point, but knowing what i do now, i'm glad i didn't.
i still advocate an inexpensive track frame like the pista (cuz it's actually a track frame and not too heavy). then add better parts than you'd get at the store, and for the same or a similar price, you'll be good to go.
that or the mercier, i've heard lots of good about that.