gang–my favorite LBS is closing out Bianchi (very sad for me). So, they’ve got some killer prices, and it’s a great opportunity to grab a decent bike for my husband at a sweet cost.
Here’s what they’ve got:
-Brava, about 525 for last year, or 479 for an older one
Eros–about 1 large
What would you do? This will be a Christmas surprise for him, because I know that he does want to ride with me, but is uptight about the cost. Since it’s my money, and CHRISTMAS, it’s a great chance to get him one. I’m psyched!
If he’s going to be uptight about the cash, go with the Brava (assuming it fits). To a non-cyclist, $500 is a hell of a lot to spend on a bike. Really. He’ll be comparing this in his mind with the $79.99 K-Mart specials and not understand the difference until he rides for a bit. If in fact he gets hooked, he’ll upgrade in a year and you can unload this for a good chunk of what you paid. If he doesn’t, neither of you will feel (as) bad about the $1000 just sitting in the garage.
The Bianchi Eros is a great bike that will take a beginning cyclist through many years before their cycling outgrows this bike. If it fits, it will provide a comfortable ride during a century and can race with any club group ride. All around winner.
Is there a school that I can send my wife to become more like you? Yesterday it was the cheerleading outfit and today your are buying your husband a bike… your killing us.
I went with the older brava, because it was the thing that would fit him best. Had the Eros been a 61 instead of a 59 I would have bought that because I’m a believer in Campy, and the carbon fork would have made his experience nicer. but, since he doesn’t even really know jack about that stuff, he won’t miss it.
If he rides enough I’ll get him a sweet bike next year. It’s funny, he keeps trying to ride my bike around the house, and while he is a total riot, I just about go mad when he tries it. Dude! It’s my bike! I think he does it just so he can see my reaction. lol
