Bianchi USA Inc. 2000 Boardwalk

Price Paid:  $480.00 at LBS

Favorite Ride:
Anywhere on Sunday afternoon

Bike Setup:
As delivered by the Local Bike Shop. Later added a rear rack.

Summary:
There are a number of nice recreactional bikes out there. It seems to take $400 to $600 to buy a really good one. The Specialized Crossroads bike offers fair components, a cool look and good price. Top end Jamis recreational bikes are great but a little hard to find.
The Bianchi Boardwalk just feels right on the road! It is extremely responsive and fast for a recreational bike. The frame and rim set give confidence of ride and great stability.
Whatever you do, make sure to buy a really good bike. One that feels right to you. Avoid the junk with all of the do-dads. This is designed to cover up the fact that the basic bike is junk. Companies like Bianchi seem to love bike and it shows.
Most importantly, if you buy a good bike, you are more likely to ride it. After all, isn't that why you wanted a bike in the first place.

Strengths:
Fair price, good components, quick and sure ride.

Weaknesses:
Have yet to discover any.

Similar Products Used:
Specialized Crossroads, Jamis comfort bikes and Cannondale.

Favorite Ride:
Santa Monica Beach

Bike Setup:
Nothing other than what comes in the box. I would (will) add chain guard, fenders, light, etc.

Summary:
If you honestly beleive that you will "jump stumps" or enter the Tour de France, buy another bike. However, for those of us (the other 99% of the population) who want a good bike for recreation, exercise and fun, this is the bike. My wife put it best when she said "this bike rides itself" and "I don't think about the bike when I am riding it". Is there higher praise for a bike? I will buy a couple of these bikes early next year and add fenders, lights, etc. Bianchi bikes seem to be designed and built by people who know and love bikes. Check it out but bring your checkbook as you won't want to go home without one.

Strengths:
Good looks, great ride, good components and fair price.

Weaknesses:
None that I have discovered so far.

Similar Products Used:
Specialized Crossroads ( a close second choice and a really nice bike), Trek 7XXX models, and the junk that is sold by the "bike marketing companies" to meet a price point.