Conference noted::bicycle

542.0. "Bianchi VOLPE ?" by DOODAH::WIEGLER () Tue Feb 09 1988 11:04

    Every year, as spring approaches, I get new bike fever.
    I have a Fuji Sport 12 and I want (deserve?) better.
    I *think* I would like a touring bike, but sometimes I think that
    maybe I should keep the Fuji and get a mountain bike so I have more
    riding options.  Most of my riding is done on the road, however
    every year, for one or two weeks, I take a vacation to a place that
    has only rough dirt roads and a mountain bike would be ideal for
    this.
    
    In a recent issue of Bicycle Guide magazine, they listed the Bianchi
    Volpe as one of the best products of the past year. I guess it's
    basically a touring bike, but supposedly handles better than most
    touring frames and comes with knobby tires and can handle dirt roads
    as well.  It was described as the bike to own, if you can only afford
    to own one bike.  Last year it retailed for $550, this year it's
    $500.  I know it has bar-end index shifting, but I'm not sure exactly
    what the components are.
    
    I am curious about this bike.  Does anyone own one?  I fear that
    because it tries to offer everything in one bike, it may compromise
    in all its functions.  Or perhaps it really is a great bike.
    
    I'm interested to hear comments.

    The Volpe is a cyclocross bike.  You can put Specialized Tri-Cross
    tires on your Fuji Sport 10 (I have an extra pair if you're interested)
    and get basically the same effect that one week per year that you
    need them.  The Volpe will give you disappointing street performance,
    and dirt performance that's best on hard-pack trails or roads.
    Mountain bikes are best for softer terrain, where their upright
    riding position is an advantage, and for just fooling around.
    
    MATT