Bianchi Superleggera 1979 Return to Timeline
The Superleggera is the pinnacle of Bianchi aesthetic sensibility. Chrome and pantographing in harmonious balance from end to end of this smooth riding grand tour frames.
The components are a mix of whatever was at hand when I built up the frame. Only the seat post and saddle are vintage correct. The brake levers, calipers, and drivetrain are mid-80's. That said, not much changed over those years. The crankset is an unusual Gran Sport compact, 116 BCD. I have 46-35 chainrings when I want to climb with this machine. It's a bit heavy, but the euphoria of retro-nostalgia more than make up for that. The two spare tubular tires adds a not inconsiderable weight, to boot. But, then again, so does the rider.
Geometry
Headtube: 19 cm
Seat tube: 63 cm ctt
Top tube: 58.5 cm ctc
Wheelsbase: 101 cm
Best Ride: TBA
The Superleggera is the pinnacle of Bianchi aesthetic sensibility. Chrome and pantographing in harmonious balance from end to end of this smooth riding grand tour frames.
The components are a mix of whatever was at hand when I built up the frame. Only the seat post and saddle are vintage correct. The brake levers, calipers, and drivetrain are mid-80's. That said, not much changed over those years. The crankset is an unusual Gran Sport compact, 116 BCD. I have 46-35 chainrings when I want to climb with this machine. It's a bit heavy, but the euphoria of retro-nostalgia more than make up for that. The two spare tubular tires adds a not inconsiderable weight, to boot. But, then again, so does the rider.
Geometry
Headtube: 19 cm
Seat tube: 63 cm ctt
Top tube: 58.5 cm ctc
Wheelsbase: 101 cm
Best Ride: TBA
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| March 1979 Bianchi Superleggera |
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| Nuovo Record brake levers and a 130 mm Cinelli 1A stem |
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| Head tube of 19 cm plus a little extra on the fork length make for a comfortable position. |
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| Understated elegance of the Bianchi lug work and pantographing |
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| Lovely nickel plating (more resistant to corrosion than chrome) |
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| This bike has had a lot of use. |
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| B is for Bianchi |
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