jslopez

So it's not exactly vintage but I was just wondering if anyone had info/opinions on this bike. The componentry is kind off low (Exage) but I was wondering if a good conditioned bike was worth fixing up a bit and if anyone knew the kind of frame it has.

edit: so that's Forza 1992 not 1192 (which would have made it beyond vintage and yes I can't spell worth crap in the morning)

T-Mar

According to the specs, the 1992 Bianchi Forza came with a Tange Infinity frameset. Infinity was Tange's base, CrMo, butted tubest at the time. The tubing gauge was comparable to the No.2 tubeset, but was seamed, allowing it be be made from steel plate and keeping the cost down. The good thing about the Forza frameset is that it did not economize on the forks and stays. They are both CrMo.

There was nothing wrong with Exage, for it's price point. The frame is good enough to warrant some upgrades, if you find the components lacking. In fact, Bianchi offered the same frame as the Campione, but equipped with Shimano RX100 components.

jslopez

Wow great info, where did you get all these?

I found info on the current components and I'm not overly concerned about that but the No. 2 tubeset? I'm not even sure what that means.

Also when I do upgrades will it have to be parts that come from that time frame or will the more modern shimanos or campys be compatible.

Finally what would be a fair price to pay for all of this (assuming it's in good running condition)?

As you can see I am a noob so thanks for your patience and answers.

T-Mar

The info comes from catalogue specs.

Tange No. 2 was a popular, quality tubeset. Originally, it was used on bicycles that were not quite top of the line. Tange used to rank their tubesets by numbers, with No.1 being the lighest and most expensive. By the early '90s, No.2 was 4th in ranking, but still used on many mid range bicycles. Infinity was an attempt to bring the properties of No.2 to a lower price point, by using seamed tubing.

In general, most modern parts are interchangable those found on the Forza. The prime area of concern would be components related to the shifting system. Most modern bicycles have graduated from the Forza's 14 speeds, to 16, 18 or 20. The derailleurs and shift levers should last a long time, though you may have to replace the chain and cassette fairly soon, depending on the mileage on the bicycle. Compatible, 7 speed chain and cassettes should still be available from most LBS (local bike shop) and if not, they are still available from mail order houses like Nashbar. Derailleurs and shift levers for 14 speeds are still available, though you may have to hunt a bit more for them.

A fair price will depend on the mechanical and cosmetic condition. However, I can tell you that the original suggested list price was $499 US.

JDRoss

Here is another bianchi forza that is in need of identification.

My roommate just bought it off craiglist, the posting might still be up. She is in love with it...

I thought I would post here to see if someone could tell me the year and any other specs of interest, just for fun....

thanks

JD