Originally Posted by T-Mar
Atala was a full range manufacturer. They did produce entry level models and during the 1970's boom these models were barely above department store models. As Sheldon states, these bicycles left a lot to be desired, but they attracted the customers, because the Italians put emphasized the cosmetics with lots of chrome and fancy paint. However, it sounds like the OP has a 1980s, lower mid-range model. Much more respectable. During this period many of the Italian manufacturers simply named the bicycle based on the tubeset and/or group (i.e. Atala Aelle Triomphe). It may have been Triomphe or Gran Sport equipped but more likely it was Campagnolo derailleurs mixed with various Gipiemme, Ofmega, Miche, Modolo and/or Universal components.
Not that I'd ever want to disagree with T-Mar
but I rode the department store bikes and an "entry-level" Italian bike back then as it was all I could afford and I'd have to say there was a huge difference between a Huffy, Murray, or Free Spirit and an entry level Atala or Bottecchia or the like. I think a lugged hi-ten steel frame with Simplex or Valentino components that weighed about 26-lbs was a far better ride than a welded steel tank with Shimano Eagle or whatever it was back then (I forget) that weighed 30+ lbs. OK T-Mar, you can tell me I'm all wet now
But otherwise I agree it's a midrange Atala from the 80's. When did they start using Shimano? I know I've seen late 80's Italian bikes with Shimano stuff on them.