I was interested in checking out the fixed gear experience but didn't want to order something off the internet. One of the LBS in town had a Pista somebody ordered but never picked up so I test rode that. It was okay but the track bars were not to my liking and the gearing would've been too high for my terrain. LBS suggested the Bianchi San Jose. They also carry the Redline bikes but recommend the San Jose over the 925. I test rode the Bianchi and really liked it so my wife got it for me for Christmas. (yes, she is awesome)
Mine came with the Alex Solo wheelset and the fixed/free hub. I've only used the fixed side. It has been a lot of fun to ride and I think it has done some good for my road bike riding, too.
Things I like:
The steel frame is light, the geometry is good for long comfortable rides, and the washed blue paint is nice. The road drop bars are comfortable and I have lots of hand positions. The 42 x 17 gearing is fast enough yet I can get up all but the steepest hills around here. I really like the way the drivetrain is so direct; I can poke along at a very slow speed so as to stay with my wife while she's chugging up a hill or even ride alongside somebody that's walking. The Cane Creek brakes work well though some people have said when it's time to get new pads to go with the Kool Stop Salmons. No complaints with the wheels or the hubs but I've only put 300 or so miles on the bike.
Things I'll change:
The cyclocross tires are a bit noisy compared to my road tires so they'll get changed to narrower road tires but probably not before they need replacing.
The saddle is okay but on longer rides(over 10 miles) I'm wishing I had my road bike saddle which is firmer.
The wheel decals looked cheesy but they came off very easily as did the reflectors. Since I took this picture I've added a rear rack and fenders; there's plenty of clearance with the 77 x 32c tires. This has made toe overlap a bit worse but I've figured out how to handle that.
When I ride, it's usually for 20 miles or more; I've done one ride that was over 40 miles. No way would I want to do that on a track bike but on the San Jose I was comfortable for the most part. Although I haven't flipped the hub to the free side yet, I like having the option should I get too far away from home and need a breather getting back.
I still can't trackstand or skid worth a flip but that's okay. I'm no hipster or hipster-wanna be, just somebody that likes to ride bikes.
