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1984 Bianchi Nuovo Racing

Finally got sick of the Origin8 tiki mustache bars, so I decided on a change. I really dislike them. Only one comfortable position, out on the ends. Went back to one of my favorite configurations for this build. Bullhorn bars with Suntour bar end shifters. Even broke out some left over celeste bar tape and the old celeste Selle San Marco Ponza saddle from the 2008 Bianchi. 


The first changes came quickly as usual. I ran into some trouble putting 700x32c tires on the Mavic rims with 700C wheels. Surprisingly not enough frame clearance for the rear brake bridge. So, decided to swap the 650b Wheelsmith wheelset with Weinmann Zac19 rims from the Gios and install some SKS Bluemels mudguards. Wiped it down with Gibbs Oil so we'll see how long it keeps clear of rust. Just recently added a set of Suntour barcons and will give that a try for a while. 


Below are the pics of the first build. 


Its missing one of the toptube cable braze-on guides, so I'll try to find a replacement.






I wasn't expecting to pick up a third Bianchi, but who doesn't need just one more. Intrigued by the fact that it was already bead blasted, Purchased it for $100, shipped from a bike forum member and it came with a set of decals. From what I can gather in old catalogue cuts, Its a circa 1984, 57cm Columbus Tretubi steel frame, serial number 3N3257. Maybe the two 3 digits mean its a 1983? Who knows for sure. Picked up a used Miche Competizione headset on ebay for $20 to finish it out. So, mostly a Campagnolo build with the Ofmega strada crank and BB. It'll be a perfect daily rider and one that could take some abuse, if that should ever happen. 

Evidently it was red in an earlier life. Not like this beautiful Celeste catalogue cut from 1984

When I got the frame it was bead blasted but they had attempted to leave the downtube decal and that looked awful. 


The matte finish was an interesting look, but it had some surface rust areas and I needed to remove the old decals so it had to change. After some research, decided to go with a brushed natural steel finish but didn't spend an inordinate amount of time getting it just right, so there is room for improvement. I used a variety of brass wire brushes on a drill and rotary tool. Landed on a look that I'm pleased with for the moment. 



Installed the decals on the downtube and seat tube. 










I haven't sprayed a clearcoat or treated the frame in anyway yet. I've read so many differing opinions on whether or not to do that over bare metal, that I just decided to leave it plain and will brush down any rust when it occurs.

finished off with the Miche headset + decals, awaiting the build


Remembered that I had a headbadge from the 2008 Bianchi. Glad I saved that!

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