Bianchi's C2C – Coast To Coast – range comprises more comfortable bikes for long distances. It previously consisted of the entry-level aluminium Via Nirone7 and the mid/high-level nano carbon Infinito, and the Impulso has been created to fill the space between them. Bianchi is open and unashamed that the styling of the frame was the highest priority during development, with performance a close second.
These sometimes conflicting goals led to the development of Triple Hydroforming Technology to create the bike's front end, which looks like it's made of carbon. The head-tube and top-tube are hydroformed individually under massive water pressure, then welded together and hydroformed again to completely smooth out the welding. as well as looking good, it's claimed to save weight and increase stiffness in that area by 10 per cent.
The Impulso comes in nine sizes (44-63cm) and three builds: Shimano Ultegra, 105 and Campagnolo Veloce. All three use compact Fsa Omega MegaExo chainsets and Bianchi's in-house Reparto Corse finishing kit. Despite the Impulso's target market – newcomers and sportive riders – the head-tube is fairly short in relation to the frame size. Anyone wanting a less aggressive position will need to use spacers to raise the bar. It's certainly nothing like as casual as a Verenti Rhigos.
Although well behind its smoothest carbon fibre price-bracket rivals, the Impulso doesn't feel harsh over broken surfaces. Smooth Veloce shifting, stable handling at all speeds and progressive braking from the Reparto Corse callipers combine to complete a friendly and accessible package that suits the C2C tag. This isn't a light bike, though, and the wheels especially seem to dull acceleration efforts, despite the frame feeling decently stiff. At £1200, though, it's up against tough opposition, and if you're looking for all-day comfort, there are better options for the money.
This article was originally published in Cycling Plus
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