Paul's Cyclery :: Shop Notes

SHOP NOTES : MARCH
the san remo

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I was disapointed to hear that Bianchi is discontinuing the San Remo model. What a shame, that’s a really nice bike, probably the most reminiscent of what you might call “classic” of their whole lineup. The frame and fork are Cr-Mo steel, arguably what is the best choice for most, yes, MOST riders; it will last for a long time, and is really comfortable to ride, and the geometry here is sorta neutral; that is, it’s not quick OR sluggish. I snagged the 61c size that I’ve had sitting in the shop for about a year, not because it’s been here a year, but because I’ve been drooling over it that whole time and when I heard there weren’t going to make it for 2004, well, I just wasn’t going to risk not getting one. I have been looking for a new touring bike since I realized that my old Austro-Daimler is just plain shot; it rides a little like the old gray mare, which means saggy and whippy; that tubeset was too light for what I used the bike for (heavy touring). Plus, I wanted a Bianchi to commute on, so it kills two or three birds with one stone.

What I really like about the San Remo is its versatility, which is another “classic” trait; I’ve put 32c tires and fenders and a rack on one that I sold (try that with a Veloce, or Vigorelli, or any sport frame, for that matter). Bianchi’s line is, “well, the VOLPE is versatile, you can put all that stuff on IT,” which in fact is correct, but the Volpe is a Taiwanese frame with Asian componentry. Boooor-ing. It’s pretty good for $799, and what I would recommend to someone who is very pragmatic or utility-minded or budget-conscious, or all three, but that’s different. I like that the San Remo has an Italian frame and components. Actually, call me a snob, on my bike I replaced the Mirage (nothing wrong with it, mind you) shifters with some old Chorus, and put on Nitto bars and Control Tech stem, ten-year-old CNC’d Mountain Tech brakes, and trick Nuovo Record front wheel from my “junk” bin, so it’s really not a 2003 San Remo any more technically. But the ride; Oh, the ride. Predictable, solid, unshakeable. Reminds me of my 1971 Bottecchia, which is about five pounds heavier. I just wish it was Celeste, then it would be perfect.

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