Test drive: Bianchi's new top model Specialissima is a temptation on two wheels. Velomotion would have liked to pack the bike up for the Eurobike - if it weren't for the price.
If you were asked for a color that represents the fascination of cycling, a majority would probably name the Celeste by Bianchi. The traditional Italian company has been producing bicycles since 1885, on which the most famous athletes in cycling history have achieved success. Fausto Coppi, Felice Gimondi, Eddy Merckx, Marco Pantani and Jan Ullrich are just a few names of famous Bianchi drivers. The company would have deserved a tour winner again - the bike for it would be there.
Because Bianchi has a new top model in its range: the Specialissima. The Italians rely generously on their Countervail technology for the frame, which is manufactured using the monocoque process. These are proprietary, patented carbon fibers that are woven into the carbon layup. This should drastically increase the damping of the frame, but at the same time improve the rigidity. The result is a classic-looking frame that weighs 55 grams in size 790. This is prepared for both mechanical and electronic groupsets, has a press-fit bottom bracket with BB86,5 dimensions and carbon dropouts. The cables run completely inside the frame. The head tube, which is slightly tapered at the front, is intended to improve aerodynamics and is based on Bianchi's Aquila time trial machine. The seat post size is 27,2 millimeters. Seven frame sizes between 47 and 61 centimeters are available. The 340 gram light full carbon fork is also equipped with Countervail fibers.
The design is minimalist: the frame comes in a choice of black or bianchi celeste, the graphics and logos are outline only and are hand-painted in Italy. If this restrained look is too subtle for you, you can use the “tavolozza” range to put together your very own desired color and graphic design. Of course, the classic Celeste look with strong decals is also available, as can be found on the wheels of the LottoNL-Jumbo team.
test drive
The test bike at the Eurobike demo day was equipped with a mechanical Super Record drivetrain and Bora Ultra 35 wheels, both from Campagnolo. In combination with the very light frame set, this resulted in a breathtaking riding experience: the Specialissima felt very light, extremely stable, pleasantly manoeuvrable and appealingly comfortable. The bike reacted immediately and without loss of power to changes in speed and acceleration. The low weight had a very positive effect on climbs, the bike glided back and forth between the legs as light as a feather when pedaling out of the saddle. At the same time, it radiated superior safety reserves and high stability. The geometry is sporty and contributes to the great forward thrust of the bike. The fun factor was enormous, we would have liked to take the bike home with us.
In order to be able to call the Specialissima your own, you have to dig deep into your pocket. The official Bianchi shop for Germany is asking for no less than 4.299 euros – for the frame set, not for a complete bike! In addition to the frame set, Bianchi offers the Specialissima in four configurations: with Campagnolo Super Record or Simano Dura Ace, each in either a mechanical or electronic version. Wheel options include Fulcrum's Racing Zero Nite, Racing Zero Carbon, Racing Speed XLR or Campagnolo's Bora Ultra 35.
The Specialissima is a temptation - technically at the highest level, it offers maximum driving pleasure, but at an exorbitant price. But what would life be without one or the other sin?
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