There was a time back in 2022 when I felt I didn't have enough bikes. Specifically, enough Italian fixed gear bikes. Fortunately, the stars aligned when I saw a Bianchi Sprint on eBay - collection only in Stoke on Trent. I collected it and the seller was a great guy. He picked me up from the station and gave me the back story to the sale: it had belonged to his partner's father. He'd been a keen cyclist and had it from new. I assured him I wasn't going to sell it on and he was delighted it would get some more use.

It looked a bit of a mess when I got it, the wheels were out of true the paint was stained. I could see it had been kept dry and had great potential. My plan was to create an urban commuter bike: strong, functional and elegant. Almost immediately I tore it right down so I could see what needed to be done. I wanted it to be a fixie so I took a deep breath and cut the rear brake guides off the top tube. I touched up the paint and it looked acceptable. I gave it a polish and the celeste green paint shone once again! I kept as many of the original parts as I could, the stem and seatpost being of Italian size. I had Alex build me a new set of wheels - I had loads of clearance so went for 25mm rims. After a few weeks it was ready to go...

I tried to use the stem and handlebars but they didn't fit me at all well. I got some sick Nitto 230's and a short stem. Later on I got a longer seat post that let me get the saddle up nice and high. Riding it is awesome*. Everyone** comments on how great it looks. I've begun to work my way through the parts box with saddles and handlebars. I have had drop bars with white tape and matching saddle. TBH I feel that's showing off and black suits it better but whatever!

* Except the time I went over the handlebars at Tower Bridge; narrowly missing a large family.
** Not everyone, but you know what I mean.