Bianchi Super Sprint Bicycle Fact File (1 of 6)

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. 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...

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!