I don't know anything about bikes. I'm looking to buy a fairly cheap one to start cycling to work.
I've spotted a used Bianchi Camaleonte IV, looks like a 2009 model. I do like the look of the Bianchis, but would this be suitable? Or would I be better off buying a newer bike? I've added photos so you can see the condition.
Would this be upgradeable too? I'm a bit concerned about the lack of disc brakes and the age of the bike. Any help would be appreciated.
by TheSlenderDan
4 Comments
This bike looks pretty good. This genre was called a flat barred road bike. The frame has carbon seat stays and a carbon fork. It will feel light, stiff, and fast. The v brakes will be very powerful when adjusted correctly. It was around $800-900 new 16 years ago. It hasn’t been used very much, and stored indoors.
You skipped the price, that is important. I wouldn’t get into upgrading it really, it’s pretty nice already. Good tires, good body position, saddle is ok. Grips look good. Just general stuff like pedals, water bottle, bags, etc.
Yes, this is suitable for you use assuming you don’t live anywhere extremely wet
Looks pretty good! Do you live somewhere hilly and rainy? If so discs might be good, but I still run rim brakes for road riding, and have for 75k miles. How much are they asking?
Definitely upgradable, and from the pics it looks in good shape. Age is less of an issue than wear. But Shimano Tiagra is a workhorse of an economy group set. It will work. It won’t be fancy or win any weight weenie awards but it’ll shift for you.
Another thing to consider would be on bike storage for commuting. Lots of options even for bikes without built in mounts for panniers and other bags.
There is no way to fit disc brakes on this bike. If you want discs you will need to look at bikes made after the mid 2010s where they became a lot more common. It is sutiable for biking to work. The raw carbon bits might be a bit flashy for a lockup outside bike.