Higher end Specialized vs. Bianchi

As fate would have it, I have also looked at these two bikes recently. Any thoughts from those familiar with both?

Mulligan Al said:

The bike shop closest to my house seems to be really great. They've been in business for a long while so I feel comfortable that they'll be there when I need them in the future. The only question I have is the only two high-end bikes they sell are Specialized and Bianchi.

I was looking to stay under $3K so I was looking at the Specialized Roubaix with Shimano Ultegra and the Bianchi 928 with Campagnolo Centaur gear (I don't know much about Campagnolo).

How do you guys feel about these two choices? I'd like to buy from these guys because adjustments are free for the life of the bike, and I can easily drop it off on my way to work.

How does Campagnolo Centaur compare to Shimano Ultegra?

specialized.comSBCBkModel.jspOpen ↗
bianchiusa.com06 928 centaur.htmlOpen ↗

Mulligan Al said:

How does Campagnolo Centaur compare to Shimano Ultegra?

They are different, but they are both excellent. The difference comes down to personal choice. Which one feels better to you?

Mulligan Al said:

The bike shop closest to my house seems to be really great. They've been in business for a long while so I feel comfortable that they'll be there when I need them in the future. The only question I have is the only two high-end bikes they sell are Specialized and Bianchi.

I was looking to stay under $3K so I was looking at the Specialized Roubaix with Shimano Ultegra and the Bianchi 928 with Campagnolo Centaur gear (I don't know much about Campagnolo).

How do you guys feel about these two choices? I'd like to buy from these guys because adjustments are free for the life of the bike, and I can easily drop it off on my way to work.

How does Campagnolo Centaur compare to Shimano Ultegra?

specialized.comSBCBkModel.jspOpen ↗
bianchiusa.com06 928 centaur.htmlOpen ↗

Have you ridden both? If one fits you better than the other, that is key.

As for Shimano v. Campy, I actually rode both of these bikes last weekend although the Bianchi was outfitted with Veloce instead of Centaur. I took a liking to the Ultegra stuff personally as I felt the shifting action of the Veloce was just too slow. I am probably going to buy the Roubaix this weekend.

Also, if the Bianchi fits better but you prefer Ultegra, you can get the Bianchi with Ultegra and it will be cheaper than the Centaur.

bianchiusa.com06 928 ultegra.htmlOpen ↗

Test ride both over terrain with which you are familiar. That should tell you a lot. Also, if your LBS is any good, make sure the set each bike up for you first before you ride. Adjust the seatpost at least.

I've had a Bianchi Veloce for 10 yrs and put about 10,000 miles on it. Aside from repairing flats and changing out the chain and cluster it has been totally reliable and great to ride. I just upgraded (way upgraded) to a Bianchi L'Una with Campy Chorus and Eurus wheels. Everyday I ride that bike I am amazed at what we can do together 😄. It looks great too!

Good luck!