One benefit of a single speed like a Bianchi San Jose is apart from the lower price and lower maintenance, there's less to easily rip off the bike, since everything (wheels, seat, etc) is bolted on. Granted you could probably get a geared bike without the quick-release as well if you're building it up yourself. Still, especially in a place like NYC, making your bike less susceptible to crimes of opportunity can only be a good thing. Of course as a previous poster alluded to, climbing the hill on Broadway between 186 and 181st streets would be an adventure with a single-speed.