Bike Upgrades

So, since I decided that I am going to buy, and build up, a Bianchi Pista Concept frameset, I’ve been patrolling eBay for components.

First I got a good deal on a Selle Italia Flite Ti saddle, then I got a Ritchey WCS seatpost. Last night I went ahead and put the new saddle and seatpost on the Pista and was amazed that it actually felt appreciably lighter when I lifted it up. I knew that the original saddle/seatpost combo was heavy, but… wow! A quick bit of research, addition, and subtraction later and I found that the Pista is now another ~202 grams, or a bit over 7 ounces, lighter. Combined with the sweet new wheels, I’ve shaved off well over a pound, probably closer to 2.

Today when I took it out for a spin, I was stunned by the difference. The bike feels noticeably lighter, quicker and even more nimble, plus, the Flite suits my derriere so much better than the ‘WTB Rocket V Comp’ saddle the bike that came with.

Somebody should kick me in my (now much more comfortable) butt for not putting a Flite on sooner. My geared bike has a Flite on it, which I know I’m comfortable on for 8 hour+ rides. I don’t know what kept me from putting one on the Pista for so long. I guess I liked the look of a chrome bike with a shiny silver saddle, for one; and it wasn’t like it was ‘ass-hatchet’ uncomfortable. I didn’t realize just how heavy (and uncomfortable) it really was, so I stuck with it (it was shiny!).

The Pista’s new found sprightliness has me really excited about eventually hanging these parts on a Pista Concept’s much lighter frame. It’s going to rock!