Eurobike: Bianchi unveil 2010 line-up

When assembling their 2010 range Bianchi looked back for inspiration, and the result is the addition of two new models to accompany the Pista classic.

The first of these is the Pista Via Condotti, finished in classic Celeste with chrome bottoms to the fork legs and chromed chain- and seatstays.

It has a standard front brake, with a neatly mounted time trial brake lever at the end of the Deda track bars keeping the lines simple and clean. A flip-flop hub gives the option of running fixed or free.

The frameset differs from the original Pista with the inclusion of a rear brake bridge, so running two brakes is now a viable option.

The second new Pista model is the flat-barred Via Brera which shares the same frame as the Via Condotti but comes in light brown with matching cork grips and a suede-like saddle in a shape reminiscent of a classic Rolls.

The Brera comes fitted with SRAM’s clever Torpedo hub, which allows you to switch between fixed and free with the turn of an Allen key.

Dolomiti

Another classic-themed model is the beautiful Dolomiti, with a Bianchi-branded triple-butted steel tubeset, chromed lugs and a matching 1in steel-threaded fork.

It comes complete with guard and rack mounts, plus a chain peg and pump peg for that true classic detailing. It’s available as either a frameset or a complete bike with Campagnolo’s 11-speed Athena groupset and Ambrosio wheels.

NoveDueOtto

A new flagship road model is also now available. The NoveDueOtto 928 SL IASP has been developed from the previous 928.

It now features an integrated seatmast with a more aero teardrop shape. This extends through the seat tube, curving around the rear wheel.

At the front is an all-new and even lighter full-carbon fork that weighs in at 315g. Bianchi say it’s stronger and stiffer than previous versions due to internal reinforcement of the central spine.

The frame itself weighs a scant 1,080g including seat clamp. It’s constructed using unidirectional Toho IM600 high modulus carbon.

It’s BB30-ready and the model seen here is specific to Shimano’s electronic Di2 group, featuring internal routing for the rear mech’s wires.

Methanol

For cross-country mountain bike racers, the all-new 2010 Methanol SL features a unidirectional high modulus carbon monocoque frameset made from a combination of three different carbon fibres.

It comes with an integrated seat mast, though this can be converted to a conventional seatpost setup with the optional cutting tool.

Developed over two years, with a further year’s off-road testing by the Bianchi sponsored TX-Active team, the frame weighs 1,170g including seat mount – not the lightest out there, but Bianchi say it offers the perfect compromise between strength and light weight.

The frame is bolstered by the same internal wall structure (called triple-wall tube) found on Bianchi’s road forks. It’s also BB30-ready as standard.

The model featured is the top-of-the-line SRAM XX-equipped 9900. The bike’s remaining spec is all top-flight cross-country equipment, including Magura’s Marta SL brakes and Durin fork.

Mavic Crossmax SLRs or DT Swiss XCR 1250s keep things rolling. It’s available in a Black UD finish or white with carbon highlights.

Rest of the range

Check out the thumbnails at the top of this article for more on Bianchi’s 2010 range. Here are some of the other key bikes:

The aluminium Via Nirone 7 C2C is Bianchi’s entry-level sportive bike

The top-of-the-range Infinito gets Chorus 11-speed and Fulcrum Racing Speed XLRs

The Pico D2 Crono Mono-Q frameset has shot-through chainstays to help with airflow

The all-carbon Camaleonte 6 sits atop Bianchi’s urban line

Bianchi also make this Monster 800 carbon hardtail mountain bike for Ducati

The sole full-susser in Bianchi’s line-up is the Spirit, with 120mm of rear travel