Well the word on the street is that Bianchi is coming to their senses and bringing back some steel bikes in 2009. No offense to anyone that owns one, but hopefully they drop the c2c line while they are at it. I am sure they ride well and everything, but they look like a bad ripoff of a Specialized Tarmac or something. Again, sorry for the tens of people whose bike I have just insulted.
Anyway, I don’t have any hard evidence at this point, but it looks as though the Imola will be back along with at least two other steel models. The one I am most excited about its the “Boron”, formally know as the Pinella. Being an owner of one, a slightly bent one at that, I can attest that the Pinella, uh I mean Boron, is a sweet ride. Very comfortable while still being surprisingly stiff for a steel bike. I can’t wait to get more details and pictures, hopefully in the near future. Who knows, it might be time to replace my frame, but then again the bent seatstay kind of adds character. If anyone at Bianchi wants me to test a 57cm Boron frame out, just let me know. It will be a sacrifice, but I am more than willing to work towards a good cause. Considering that I have extensive experience with the original Pinella, I am probably a great choice to do some hands on testing of the new Boron. Get back to me when you can. If needed, I can pick it up at Interbike. Thanks!
I found this image on Bianchi’s site. Apparently the new/old steel bikes are going to be part of a Classica line, and will use this logo. In principle this seems okay, but I hope they don’t make it cheesy. We’ll see, I just want some photos.
Bianchi Dolomiti:
Chrome lugs and classic styling, I am anxious to see it in person
Steel frame (what kind of steel I don’t know), and Campy Veloce 10-speed. Cool bike, but I want to see a more performance/race bike like the Pinella. My understanding is that the new Pinella/Boron will be all Celeste, which should have a nice classic look. We’ll see.
The new carbon lugged D2 Cross Concept looks awesome, although I suspect it will be pricey. CX Magazine has a preview here:
http://cxmagazine.com/2009-bianchi-d2-cross-concept-race-carbon-preview
Roger at Newhall Bikes says you’re right; they are bringing steel back in 2009, though they probably won’t announce the models until October.
In the meantime, he’s getting me an 07 Imola as my first road bike. Should be fun!