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2007 Bianchi Bergamo
The Bianchi USA marketing dept. obviously had one too many when they latched onto "what's the sound of one hand shifting?" for the 2007 Bergamo slogan. But is one hand really a better way to control 21 gears?
The novel "DualDrive" system (by Sugino) combines 3 speed internal hub gearing with a regular 7 speed derailleur to provide 21 ratios - all controlled from the right handlebar.
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It's nice to see Bianchi treading their own path with this unique bike - squarely targeted at commuting / city cyclists.
But it's definitely the unique drivetrain that makes the Bergamo stand out from the crowd. Bianchi say:
“Not only is the smooth shifting all controllable with your right hand, but you can shift gears while standing still or coasting.”
Other hilights that the Bikely team enjoyed were the inclusion of full coverage (retro style!) fenders and a luggage rack. The seat is decidely comfortable, and it even includes some flashing LED lighting! Neat.
Reviews & Opinions from Owners of the Bergamo
This Review Submitted By
Jay on June 16th 2007
Purchased
1-2 years ago for US $ 650.00
Quality Rating
Value for Money Rating
Comments
“I bought the Bergamo as my first commuter-style bicycle in May, 2006, and have gotten a lot of great use out of it. The novel shifting setup really is nice, and it is great to be able to shift at virtually any time. I would definitely buy this bicycle again.
After 13 months and a couple thousand miles of riding, I'll note these drawbacks:
1. For the first month or two, I had trouble with the fenders rattling and rubbing against the tires. I made adjustments, but it never really seemed to help. Amazingly, however, this eventually sorted itself out and the fenders have been quiet and trouble-free for many months.
2. It probably owes to poor technique, but I have on several occasions had problems with the chain slipping off when shifting gears in the rain.
3. As a commuter bike, I'd think the Bergamo should include some sort of chain cover--I have had problems with grease on my pants when I have forgotten to band the right pant leg or when the band has slipped down.
4. The battery compartment cover to the integrated LEDs in the seat is virtually impossible to open (these lights are only good as a backup or secondary light source anyway, it should be noted).
5. The included kickstand is virtually useless when I put panniers on the rack.
This might look like a lot of negatives, but I wanted to give an honest appraisal. I will reiterate that I have been very satisfied with the Bergamo, overall, and I would buy it again.
Enjoy.”
This Review Submitted By
Phil on December 28th 2006
Purchased
1-3 months ago for US $ 640.00
Quality Rating
Value for Money Rating
Comments
“I looked at all the usual suspects in the equipped/upright commuter bike market. Lots of nice bikes out there, but for my money, 26" wheels don't really cover distance well, and the others on the market are either clunky (for example, the Novara Fusion) or pricey for what they are (for example, the Trek Soho). I initially was skeptical of the SRAM shift system and didn't take the Bergamo seriously ---until I tried it. Best commuter bike for the money, IMHO. I added a genset and a flashing front light to mine. (Background: My bike is daily transport; Commute 7-15 miles per day, rain/shine/night/day, city traffic). ”
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