The First Test Ride / New Info

Dropped by Camas Bikes today to pick up a Presta-Schrader adapter so I could pump up the tires and take the Bianchi for a spin. While I was there, I asked Ed, the owner, if they can order Surly bikes and to my delight, he said they could! He also said I should check out the Co-Motion Nor’Wester, which sounds like a nice ride — hand built in Eugene, OR. However, I’ve had so many people give me such high ratings for the Cross Check that I kind of feel I’d be cursing myself to get any other bike. Of course, there is that small issue of where to find the money to buy a bike (as well as fixing up the Bianchi), but I’m sure it will all sort itself out… right?

Anyhow, back to the first test ride. After pumping up the tires (and somehow snapping the tip off one of the Presta valves—D’oh!), I took a quick ride down the street and back, as I didn’t want to do too much with only one working brake. The bike fits better than I thought, but the ride felt a little clunky. The bike definitely needs a mechanical overhaul. Can’t wait to get it stripped down and start the process though.

I’m also constantly amazed at how fast the Internets work. I posted some photos of the bike to my Facebook account last night and already have been connected with a guy who is a vintage Bianchi expert and who owns a 1971 Bianchi Team bike of his own, which has been beautifully restored. He was able to confirm that this bike is most likely a Team bike and also point me towards a guy who does great frame restoration work. I was also shown this link, which shows a 1952 team bike that looks incredibly similar to mine.

I can clearly see that this is going to be a long term project, so make yourself some popcorn, grab a beer and get comfy. This could take awhile.