Originally Posted by
chip.hedler
Hi!
Just took possession of a pretty nice 53 cm Bianchi with Columbus Matrix label on seat tube,; Gipiemme hubs, cranks, seat post, headset, pedals, droputs; ITM drop bars; Ambrosio 19 Extra rims and sewups; Modolo calipers; Campy NR rear derailleur, Campy front derailleur, Campy shift levers on brazed-on mount; 968 and 6 . 1 on bottom bracket shell; "Bianchi" in san-serif letters cut into top of seat stays; Bianchi eagles cut into fork crown. Browsing this forum leads me to guess this is mid-1980 vintage, middle-of-the-quality range bike, but I'd greatly appreciate more expert insight into this bike's identity. Haven't figured out how to upload images given this being my first post. Thanks in advance.
Welcome to the forums. I didn't think that Bianchi used Matrix or at least didn't call it such in the USA market. Regardless, your frame was manufactured in 1986 and possibly late enough in the calendar year to be a 1987 model. The 1987 models typically have a 1986-1987 Campione del Mondo Colorado Springs decal on the down tube, just above the shift levers. If it doesn't have one, it's should be a 1986 model. Based on the components, it sounds like the mid-range Nuovo Alloro model, which was 6th in the 13 model road line. These were typically market in the USA with the Bianchi Formula II tubing decals.