Bianchi for 21,885 euros: Limited special edition commemorates company founder

The limited edition of 85 bikes refers to the founding year of 1885, when Edoardo Bianchi opened his first workshop in Via Nirone in Milan. According to the Italians, the "Founder Edition" combines the brand's racing tradition with state-of-the-art technology and exclusive components. Bianchi had already launched the "Collezione 140 Anniversario" in spring, a special edition to mark the company's anniversary. Most recently, the traditional manufacturer from Treviglio also commemorated Marco Pantani's success at the 1998 Tour de France with another special model.

Exclusive parts, exclusive price

The "Founder Edition" is based on the Oltre RC and Specialissima RCBianchi has upgraded both models with exclusive high-end components. The build includes high-quality carbon wheels from Scope: the Artech 6.A is characterised by a scale-like rim design, carbon spokes and 3D-printed hubs. In the TOUR test, we determined a total weight of 1253 grams for the aerodynamically optimised wheelset. The list price is just under 4000 euros.

For the drivetrain, the Dura-Ace groupset from Shimano is combined with a carbon crank from THM. The German tuning specialist offers the Clavicula SE Powermeter for 2699 euros. There are also chainrings and brake discs from Carbon-Ti. The carbon fibre components gained notoriety primarily through superstar Tadej Pogacar and together have a list price of 805 euros. The luxurious equipment is rounded off by an eye-catching gear cage from Ceramicspeed, with the aerodynamically optimised version called OSPW Aero Alpha on the Oltre RC costing 679 euros.

Including excursion with professionals

According to Bianchi, each frame set is also painted by hand in Italy. The colour variant called "Blue Italia" is a reminder that Edoardo Bianchi once supplied the Italian royal family with bikes. According to legend, Queen Margherita's light blue eyes are also partly responsible for the fact that models from Treviglio are now associated with the iconic "Celeste" colour. The "Celeste Spectrum" paint finish is intended to represent a symbol of the future with its shimmering colour effects. The chassis also bears details from the company's long history. Among other things, the number 999 on the fork refers to the so-called Reparto Corse series, which was once built for professionals and well-known personalities.

For just under 22,000 euros, Bianchi is also offering interested parties the opportunity to take delivery of the racing bike during the Arkéa-B&B Hotels World Tour team's preparatory training camp. The package also includes a transport bag for the classy bike, a clothing set from Arkéa-B&B Hotels and a concierge service during the purchase process.

Bianchi Oltre RC Founder Edition

• Rear derailleur: Shimano Dura-Ace Di2
• Crankset: THM Clavicula SE Powermeter
• Chainrings: Carbon-Ti X-CarboRing
• Switching cage: Ceramicspeed OSPW Aero Alpha
• Translation: 2x12; 52/36, 11-30 Z.
• Brakes: Shimano Dura-Ace/Carbon-Ti (160/160 mm)
• Tyres: Pirelli P Zero Race RS TLR (30 mm)
• Impellers: Scope Artech 6.A (Carbon)
• Price: 21,885 Euro

Bianchi Specialissima RC Founder Edition

• Rear derailleur: Shimano Dura-Ace Di2
• Crankset: THM Clavicula SE Powermeter
• Chainrings: Carbon-Ti X-CarboRing
• Switching cage: Ceramicspeed OSPW RS Aero
• Translation: 2x12; 52/36, 11-30 Z.
• Brakes: Shimano Dura-Ace/Carbon-Ti (160/140 mm)
• Tyres: Pirelli P Zero Race RS TLR (30 mm)
• Impellers: Scope Artech 6.A (Carbon)
• Price: 21,885 Euro