Just got a 2008 Bianchi Axis. I moved the rack and stuff from another bike so I need to fix the angle and install a computer still, but overall it's a fast, fun ride, at least compared to my old mountain bike.

I need to improve my hauling system. I like the flexibility of the reusable shopping bag cargo-netted to the rear, but my laptop is a little too big for it so I get this bulky arrangement with it sitting diagonally and clothes packed around it. Most days I don't have to haul a computer so I don't want to get too crazy with specialty bags.

I thought I wanted another flat bar bike but after riding this and a couple other cross bikes (sorry, I tried a CrossCheck but it just didn't feel good to me), I discovered the rotated hand position on top of the forward brakes really makes my ergonomic arm injury feel much better! I also had the LBS install another set of brakes up front like some of the other cross bikes have. I feel more stable using those most of the time.

That's one of our dogs, Walt, who sniffs and licks the tires when I get home.