Bianchi USA Inc. SL3 Al/Carbon Centaur

Price Paid:  $700.00 at veloswap san francis

Favorite Ride:
bianchi sl3

Summary:
had a aluminum bike before with carbon fork. the carbon seatstays on the bianchi sl3 noticeably eliminates the road buzz. stiff enough for sprints and climbing, yet comfortable enough for a long ride.

Strengths:
stiff, comfort

Weaknesses:
none

Price Paid:  $0.00 at LBS

Model Year:
2004

Favorite Ride:
Long rides

Bike Setup:
Stock parts - Campy Centaur, Vento wheels, SLR saddle, Oval Handlebars.

Summary:
Surprising comfortable Aluminum/Carbon bike for a light rider - smooth on rough roads, reasonable acceleration, good on climbs.

Strengths:
Good comfortable with the carbon fork and seatstays. Stiff main triangle but does not beat you up on rough roads. Nice color scheme - black/silver.

Weaknesses:
Heavier bike for this price range. Centaur works well, but the Vento wheels are quite heavy.

Similar Products Used:
Merlin Extralight, Kestrel K200sci, Soloist

Price Paid:  $2100.00 at Naples Italy

Favorite Ride:
Bianchi SL3/ AL

Bike Setup:
Carbon fork, rice light Campy wheel set, look clipless pedals

Summary:
The best bike I have ever been on! This bike is light, factory light, not additives yet and only a touch over 16 pounds. I’m not much of a climber but testing the hills I found allot more response and much better times then on my other bike (Iron Horse Cyclone). Smooth ride and very forgiving , solid build and solid fit. I almost got a touring bike but one ride on a Bianchi and the pure comfort of this design I am glad I bought this bike.

Strengths:
Solid build, pure silk on the road, not to stiff to make for a sore ride.

Weaknesses:
Nothing yet!

Similar Products Used:
Iron Horse Cyclone