@@podenco2 ya been thinking about a mirror more and more, I do look around a lot when I bike though, can't say the same as everyone else that seems to run into me without looking
I'm so happy this video has garnered such positive feedback, I was unsure about this because I'm not talking about specialized anything, I just like to commute by bike and I like a pretty bike that's also functional! I have some other bike content on my channel and more to come in the Spring, already in talks with some bike companies for new gear
I have been a bike commuter for about 15 years. My commute was 17 miles one way and my goal was to do this 2 days a week. I needed to leave my home at 4:30 am. That said I had 2 lighting sources, 1 helmet mounted as a primary and a handle bar light as a back up. I had 2 small panniers on the rear because the ride home was much different in temperature than the ride to work, this allowed me to shed layers of clothing when needed. I also had EZ to reach Pepper spray for people or animals that may obstruct your way. I also had an under seat tool kit equipped to change a tube and tighten most bolts. I also wore a reflective vest. Fenders are recommended because they keep your drive line much cleaner.
my old bike had a fender and it took me way too long to finally get one for this one (after a few muddy backs) and the rear rack I really thought would cramp my style but when I found the right minimalist rear rack and a nice back to boot and U lock holder, turned out just fine :)
@@bxmundo So you obviously don't care zero about getting a dirty wet streak all the way up your back on a wet day? Or you never need to carry more than possibly a back pack can? Or just because you don't need to get a sweaty back always wearing a backpack? Yeah well, you do you.
@@tconnolly9820 i ride 30 km each day. 40% offroad. mud, sand, cow shit. no need for fenders. dead weight and hazardous in my case of use. but: i can shower at work and dont really care if i got mud on my face. there is one downside tho: i have to do clean my chain more often.
I swear putting that thing on took me a good hour or 2 and lots of sweat and swearing lol too many little things to adjust especially as I didn't have the hole welded onto my bike, so many moving parts
Things I love on my dutch city bike: - hub dynamo, with quality dynamo lights (Herrmans MR8) - thick rack (10mm steel tubes) with these elastic thingies I bought for 6€ that work SO WELL to carry stuff. - good tires: Marathon Supreme FW, Marathon Plus RW (probably could have just bought standard Marathon). - suspension 4-bar linkage seatpost 🤩 (on a dutch city bike the comfort gain is INCREDIBLE), less so on a road bike or mtb. - quality contact points (good saddle, good grips, good mountain bike pedals).
As a massive bike nerd, let me congratulate you on your exquisite taste. To say "shimano 600" is nothing great hurts my heart. Back in the day it was second only to the top of the line parts (Dura Ace) you could get from Shimano. Sure, they are vintage parts, and wont be as expensive as a "modern" road bike parts (groupsets), but they are VERY NICE :)
I take it back! 🫣 Another viewer in my previous video mentioned how Shimano 600 back in the day was IT, I just figured with all the fancy new stuff that thieves wouldn't be looking at a Shimano 600 for parts and $$. I love them :D I have a mix of new tech and vintage in my home and products I own and I wouldn't swap these for anything else. I was actually bummed back in the day I didn't have Campagnolo, it seems the more expensive or Bianchi's that came after mine equipped theirs with Campagnolo, it's been really hard to find info on my bike other than 1 magazine print I found that I can't re-find.
are the new bikes more complicated to work on and I guess I mean new road bikes? Not all of them are uber specialized, I'm just curious what makes them different
@@GadgetsGearCoffee For the most part, you don't need a lot of specialize tools to maintain a vintage bike. You can get by with tools you have around already. Hex wrenches, pliers, spanners screw driver maybe. If you want to regrease your bearings in your wheels, or crank, you will have to buy a set of cone wrenches, crank puller, and a freewheel remover, but even so you can get them cheaply on ebay used. I personally think a modern bikes require more specialized tools at a higher cost which most people don't have money for. I think also the systems are more complicated like disk brake or the transmission system which are less forgiving if you don't do it right. I started to do my own bike maintenance when was 15 years old with no instruction 🙂
I just purchased a 2017 specialized sirrus that I wanted to slowly turn into my main commuter bike! I’m a newbie to biking and commuting with a bike, so thanks for so many great product recommendations!
A mirror is one of the most important things I've added, especially since I'm usually riding on faster roads. It's kind of awesome how beneficial it is and going without one just feels kind of wrong now.
@@GadgetsGearCoffee I have just one on the left side as I'm mostly on single lane roads and haven't really felt the need for a right one yet, although it wouldn't be the worst thing to have two...
Enjoyed the video. Definately agree with everything you said. Personally I like a front rack on my city bikes along with a Dynamo Hub and front light. For me, seeing and being seen are right up there at the top with the utility of the bike. Appreciate you sharing.
That's a beautifully turned out bike. Everything on it makes for a super useful machine. Even your handlebars are set right. Bet you can ride all day long. Enjoy.
Fantastic video. Discovered it by complete chance. I ride a 1971 huffy sportsman step through, I adore the look of these vintage bikes. Yours is in amazing condition and you got the look just right
velo orange and Nitto are one of the best silver racks and lots of options. you can also find out of production Nitto Japanese pieces that goes very well with the architecture of your Bianchi steel frame. Very nice video, awesome!
Vélo orange I've stumbled upon during my research, nice retro esthetic but Nitto is new to me, thanks for sharing. Mine was Linus, same as my bag. It definitely was a challenge finding not only a silver rack but one that would fit sufficient things while also being minimal esthetically
My bikes came with lights, bells, mudguards, locks, helmets and racks when I got them. One set of the bike lights are dynamo. I use panniers, a front block that can carry a bag and or a trailer when needed. I add extra rechargable lights for emergencies just in case. I do have one of those multi-tools and the extra emergency tube with repair kit though I have had to use it once 4 years. Plus I have some bungee cords/straps.
Commuting by bike isn't necessarily faster than by car but as commuting by car you get say 30 minutes of boredom, on a bike you get 1 hour of joy ^_^ I love rock straps, I started using them recently on my motorbike. Superhelpful when riding two up with my girlfriend and she brings so much stuff that it can't fit into the top case ^_^
@@Dellvmnyam with my short Commutes especially when there is traffic it's actually faster for me! Rok straps are so simple and so effective. Bungee cords would do in a pinch
I finally got panniers (don't know why it took me so long 😅). What a game changer! Imagine being able to get a full load of groceries AND not having your back get all sweaty from a backpack. Plus the back rack stops the rain from splashing up my backside.
Though I /do/ really wish that my bags had backpack straps (or even carrying handles). I bought mine used for a good deal, so I can't complain, but I know for certain the next set I buy will have backpack straps.
In the Netherlands this isn't classified as a commuter bike but as a race bike. And every type of bike needs to have legally required minimum equipment, like a bell, brakes and reflectors. A Dutch commuter bike (most of them already there when you buy one) has a straight handle bar, dynamo lights (front and back, the lights are mandatory), a back wheel lock, rear rack is on most bikes already there, on the rear fender the botom piece of the fender is white, chain guard, coat protectors on the rear wheel, a bell. Reflectors: a white one at the front, a red one at the back (which should not be confused with the rear light), yellow or orange on the pedals (they should be visible both at the front and at the back), and finally two double-sided yellow or orange reflectors that are symmetrical in the spokes of each wheel hanging and/or a reflective white band on each side of the tires
@@vast001 I envy the flatness of the Netherlands to bike. Or rather Amsterdam when I was there a few years ago. I'd love to bike year round too! Our winters are rough for biking some people still do it though. We don't have that many upright Dutch style bikes where I'm from but you do see them around. I saw a video about them once and it doesn't seem like a lot of places outside of the Netherlands had them? Can't remember the details
@@GadgetsGearCoffee Denmark, Germany, Belgium also have bikes like ours. Although nowadays our winters are mild and not that snowey, I remember snowey winters in my youth (about 40 yrs ago) and still we cycled through the streets with snow on our normal bikes (without any winter additions to the bike), the bike paths weren't swiped clean, some streets weren't even swiped clean. Althoug the Netherlands seems fiat but it isn't always to us, like in my town the street where the library is on is slightly uphil and on a bike without gears you can feel that. Or bike paths running through a tunnel. The RUclips channel Not Just bikes is an expat from Canada and has great video's about our bikes and bike paths and the different bikes we have. I had always a bike without gears, that was pretty common back in the day.
I've almost pulled the trigger on that sooooo many times, read the reviews, checked out which saddles would be good for small female riders specifically but still have not
@@GadgetsGearCoffee the front wheel generates electricity for the front and backlight, they're wired alltogether discretly. You can find these wheels pre-built for pretty cheap now. Shimano makes some very reliable and priceable ones. SON is a better brand, lighter but more expensive. The setup is very easy too!
I have a Garmin radar built into my bike ..I really like my new bike & I love riding it to the cafe for breakfast .. it’s a specialized Como 5.0 IGH .. it just fits my lifestyle beautifully .. a gift from my mother , I’m 57 .
This is a great video. Thanks for sharing. I highly recommend having a patch kit and a small air pump. If you travel far and get a flat you can fix it and not walk home.
ohhh cool, I was looking into bike trailers for a festival I go with my e-bike to haul all the camping gear, kind of abandoned that project for now but working on another that I hope comes to fruition
I recommend safety tabs if you have fenders. Without them, debris can get stuck in between your tire and fender and lock the wheel up. It's rare but if it does happen it could throw you over the handlebars
When it’s Christmas time I put LED Christmas lights on. I also cover my panniers with pins like my cowboy kitty or “Science Is Real”. They make me happy
oh those are cute ideas! I actually have tons of pins and I never know where to put them so I may put a pin or 2 on a bag :D the LED are fun, I got a few ?LED products for my wheels but they always all broke so I gave up on those :(
Very cool setup and lively and informative presentation style. Like the way you customized your bike, coordinating your gear so it’s aesthetically pleasing and functional. What size rok straps do you have? Been using bungees cords. Would like to try the straps. Must admit the drop handle bars seem to make it look like the cyclist knows what he or she is doing, but I am a hybrid bicyclist who prefers a more upright riding position. My cockpit is crazy busy. I always ride with my action camera mounted there, have an electronic remote controlled motion sensor/horn anti theft device, a small but pleasantly loud bell, a bike computer, headlight, left and right rear view mirrors and believe it or not an air horn attached to the head tube. Everything is color coordinated-navy blue and black are the dominant colors. Have a black rear rack, expandable panniers, a tail light, U-lock with cable, and some basic tools I carry in the top compartment of my “saddle bags.” Also have a detachable mud guard attached to the down tube. Oh yes, I always carry an electric bike pump. I use my mirrors, computer, and U-lock regularly and inflate my tires before leaving the house. Whew! The other stuff I rarely use but I like having all of it with me just in case. Bike is pretty heavy but I can keep up with other hybrid bike riders. Not into speed anyway. Just like having fun-like you. Really appreciated your approach to urban cycling. Thanks for sharing! One more thing I like how your rear wheel requires a special tool to remove the wheel and how you lock the front wheel and frame!
@@GadgetsGearCoffee My bike computer is modest. Here are the functions: speedometer, distance traveled, average speed, total distance, maximum speed, and time of day. Brand and model-Velo 7 Cateye. Some bike computers offer way more functionality. I love my basic one-perfect for my purposes. Battery lasts a long time! And last time I checked the computer was very affordable and doesn’t take up much space either. Top of the line ones will give mapping, weather conditions, you name it, etc,, etc.
@@saisamsuri I have so many times. Then reading about breaking it in and finding the right saddle especially as a petite woman I wasn't sure it was worth it. But I may keep an eye out for a used
Hey there ❤️ how did you connect the bracket arms on the rear rack. Where can I get those adapters. I too was hesitant on putting a rear rack on my bike but I gave in and got a temporary rack that connects to the seat post. It does the job for now but I would like to replace it with one similar to yours. I have a vintage as well. Trek 1200 1992 all original parts I just changed tubes and tires but the owner barely used it so it looks and rides great❤️ I almost got a Bianchi that was a bit modern but I wanted something vintage with down levers. Hope you see this and respond.
Points of contact: sandpaper-like surface pedals, SelleRoyal RespiroRelaxed and ErgonGP5 grips on my ScottStrike e-Ride. NitecoreBr25 front light and MagicShineSeeMee 300 are the main lights and both shine under the bike too, not only in front and rear! I also have a Fenix HM65R-T on the helmet. And a GarminFenix 6X Pro as a mini-computer. The bike was a gift ftom my brother, i could never bought a 5000 € bike. Its overkill for me, in fact i rarely use it because its difficult to get in and out the basement where i keep it. But i enjoy it very much.
bike gloves will be helpful in case of a low-speed fall, but if you fall from your bike at say anywhere around 20km/h like I did (thank you, tram tracks!!) and put your weight on one hand, I'm afraid you're going to break a bone (mine was the left radius).
@@giovanbattistafichera8439 Ah ya of course it'll happen. It's instinct to put your hands down, if the gloves can help a little it's worth it. It's saved me from a few slow falls
ya, the stem the bike shop ended up getting was a little higher than what I would've gone with, especially aesthetically I found it didn't look so balanced but I got used to it and I'm fine with it now. I'm still in a "fast ride position" but way more comfy of a ride
Cateye front light in daylight mode,so I'm not T-boned at junctions by motorists. I always use gloves as I fall when wobbly walking as I've cerebral palsy. I've been cycling for sixty years,since I was six. The UK is not bicycling friendly.
I got the bike used for 400, a bit expensive for a used in my city BUT it was pretty much intact when I got it (as in the person bought it in the 80s, didn't really ride it, and finally sold it). The rest, you'd need to add things up, it's all in the description
I have Spokey Dokes, that I will be putting on when I ride with my grandniece. She is six, has just learned to ride without training wheels, and I hope these make her laugh. Of course, I saved all the pink colored beads ones for her bike.
What an absolutely beautiful bike. I loved this video. My manual bike is a pretty basic 7 year old Meriva Crossway 10 hybrid. It's black so everything I added is mostly either black or grey. I have it covered front to rear in racks and bags large and small for carrying stuff plus two large trailers for carrying anything from 70 kg of shopping and whatever to a full sized lawnmower or a 400 litre tub to.......... Mirrors on each handlebar for safety, fittings for a variety of lights front and back, a polite little ding ding bell, a friendly "hi-ho hello" bulb horn and an angry electronic horn for those rare occasions when I want a sound to say "you nearly killed me you &_@(!"& @&?#!!!!! And I have a 30cm handlebar extension for holding all of this extra stuff and more. I don't keep it polished and gleaming because it's basically an all round workhorse. I do keep it in good mechanical working order and that's good enough for me. I'm definitely a maximalist and not a minimalist when it comes to fitting out my bikes (just bought a new Cube Kathmandu e-bike) for practical car alternative everyday utilitarian use. But there is definitely so much of me in this bike. It really is an extension of who I am when I'm riding it. Because I'm 2 metres tall and my bike is an XL frame size, it absolutely and unmistakably stands out and above every other bike it's parked alongside. My latest addition is handlebars mitts for the cold and wet weather here in Ireland. We rarely get snow and occasionally icy roads would be the biggest obstacle to keep me off the roads on two wheels. I live in a rural area so side roads won't be gritted in winter. I wish you and your beautiful Bianchi many more years of safe pedaling.
@@GadgetsGearCoffee No, unfortunately it does not actually go "hi-ho hello" although I'm the sort of person who would think that would be sooooooo cool if it did! 😎 What I mean is that it has quite a musical tone and when you squeeze the rubber bulb in and out, it does sound like a musical hel-lo or hi-ho. It's a very friendly tone. There are some people I know who always want to give it a few squeezes whenever they meet me. It's definitely not an angry sound no matter how hard or how fast you squeeze it. That's why I have the electronic horn for those very special occasions. Basically it's very cute and it just adds extra personality to the bike.
100% It doesn't have MIPS, it probably wouldn't be in the top 10 "best safe helmets tested" video but it passes certification, keeps me safe and most importantly, I wear it.
@@levibelflower6088 I couldn't even tell you so if you figure it out let me know. I found a magazine clipping of it once in a deep dive I haven't been able to find again since. It's from the 70-80s I think more 80s though
@@ColeDunham365 appreciate the comment Cole :) when I started RUclips it did not escape me that I would offer something different from the majority and I'm glad to bring that representation, diversity and different perspective and it's been noticed and well received
I call those bikes tralala bikes haha. I have. In Amsterdam actually. They're fun, more chill upright but I like the speed I changed my stem this year so I'm a little more upright and it's a little more comfy
@@SolarizeYourLife you're damner if you do and damned if you don't. It's been all men upset and aggressive with me. So that's the trend unfortunately. I think sometimes they're actually upset I passed them. So odd. What's an mik?
@@lalalops833 why? I got a different stem so it's higher up. And I'm more flexible than the average person so I can ride it with the higher stem no issues comfortably without warming up
@@GadgetsGearCoffee It makes you lean forward, i had back pain for half a year till i randomly decided taller handlebars looked cooler. Same logic as not lifting with your back but with your legs, not slouching when on the computer, etc
@@lalalops833 yup that makes sense. Every body is different, my flexibility and strength means I don't have issues. My bike rides are also 20-30 mins max one way
@@GadgetsGearCoffee No, I'm saying this REGARDLESS of flexibility and strength. continuous and usual back strain will hurt you. 20 minutes everyday is over an hour in a week, over 6 hours every month. Now imagine that amount of time compounded over a career's time. This is the reason people will get carpal tunnel when they work an office job, no amount of confidence will save your joints from poor ergonomics
ohhhh trust me, that has definitely crossed my mind but until my tires give out, I won't change them for the time being. I do however have the beautiful brass rims I haven't seen anywhere else (granted I didn't look too long) and that matches my bike! and the wheels being black matches my bike enough
@@GadgetsGearCoffee I've been riding my bike for 25 years, and I've never changed a single part apart from tires, so I decided it was time to give some love back. A new seat and handlebar tape, new brake cables, so this part was extra... completely unecessary but I felt obliged to restore it to its original glory, even though it is overpriced with shipping for a piece of rubber. the original part was hidden under some yukky tape, and you can only imagine what it was after 50 years from the original owner, I'm glad I got rid of that.
@@amonynous9041 I think something I am going to order is a chain guard that's brown pleather to match the rest of my bike, something that someone proposed on my last bike tour video
@@GadgetsGearCoffee I try to keep these things to a minimum, no mudguards, no chain guards, no cargo racks, it's completely stripped bike with only crucial stuff. If I need to carry groceries I take a rucksak.
Please stop using the bell for pesedtrians, especially in places where pedestrians are allowed. An "excuse me" or "on you left" is a lot better. If you're walking, with your thoughts and all of a sudden you hear a bell, you get scared imagining a cyclist barreling towards you. This causes the pedestrian to get flustered and not know where to go.
@@SamSeama it's a touristic area where there is a clear no pedestrian sign allowed and they don't care or don't see it and nobody is there to enforce. Also some areas it's shared but shared does not mean taking up all the space. As a pedestrian, they can walk on another gravel path next to it or take up less room. No need to be walking as a group wizard of oz style taking up the entire path that's already small and overgrown as is
@@GadgetsGearCoffee where the sign is clear, I get it. Get on a bike path, expect bikes. The rest of it, not really. Imagine a driver honking at you, and passing you close. His reason: "It's a shared street and your bicycle doesn't take much space. There's also a perfect sidewalk you can ride on, or at least stay close to the edge where all the gutters and the trash is, you can handle it, right?" Your bicycle for a pedestrian is kind of like a car for a cyclist.
@@SamSeama we're not allowed to ride on sidewalks here and whenever I do ride on the streets with cars, I'm very aware of my vulnerability and I do make sure to not take up too much room when I can. I assume I *may* get hit and so I bike with that in mind. I get the bell can be "alarming" but let's not equate a bike bell with the honk of a car, it's absolutely not the same. Whenever I ring my bell, I usually am the one to move out the way but it's to let people know I'm passing as I've had too many people not pay attention or decide to giggle and push their friends or something or make sudden movements. I'm still of the belief if you're a pedestrian (without a stroller or a good reason), don't be on a bike path even if it's shared especially when there is literally a path to walk on right next to it. Just some people don't want the gravel road even though it's safer for everyone.
In a restaurant the staff typically will tell others: "Behind you!" It's not honking at you to get out of the way, it's a warning so you are prepared. @@SamSeama
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All products mentioned in the description! What are your must have gear? Let me know in the comments, would love to hear from y'all!
Panniers for going to the fresh food markets here in Ecuador, and a lock to keep honest people honest.
Best Cycling Accessories For Bike Commuting
A mirror on the opposite side you drive. If you drive in the left of the road, install the mirror on the right and vv.
@@podenco2 ya been thinking about a mirror more and more, I do look around a lot when I bike though, can't say the same as everyone else that seems to run into me without looking
Finally a channel that understands bike aesthetics!!
I'm so happy this video has garnered such positive feedback, I was unsure about this because I'm not talking about specialized anything, I just like to commute by bike and I like a pretty bike that's also functional! I have some other bike content on my channel and more to come in the Spring, already in talks with some bike companies for new gear
I have been a bike commuter for about 15 years. My commute was 17 miles one way and my goal was to do this 2 days a week. I needed to leave my home at 4:30 am. That said I had 2 lighting sources, 1 helmet mounted as a primary and a handle bar light as a back up. I had 2 small panniers on the rear because the ride home was much different in temperature than the ride to work, this allowed me to shed layers of clothing when needed. I also had EZ to reach Pepper spray for people or animals that may obstruct your way. I also had an under seat tool kit equipped to change a tube and tighten most bolts. I also wore a reflective vest. Fenders are recommended because they keep your drive line much cleaner.
It's not a commuter bike if it doesn't have a rack and fenders. The parts on this bike is well thought out. 👌
my old bike had a fender and it took me way too long to finally get one for this one (after a few muddy backs) and the rear rack I really thought would cramp my style but when I found the right minimalist rear rack and a nice back to boot and U lock holder, turned out just fine :)
Any bike is a commuter bike if you're commuting back and forth. There are ZERO requirements for racks or fenders if you don't need them.
@@bxmundo So you obviously don't care zero about getting a dirty wet streak all the way up your back on a wet day? Or you never need to carry more than possibly a back pack can? Or just because you don't need to get a sweaty back always wearing a backpack?
Yeah well, you do you.
@@tconnolly9820 i ride 30 km each day. 40% offroad. mud, sand, cow shit. no need for fenders. dead weight and hazardous in my case of use. but: i can shower at work and dont really care if i got mud on my face. there is one downside tho: i have to do clean my chain more often.
@@30pmfr03 old bikes all had fenders. They served a purpose.
Rear rack installation is always an artistic project. The silver looks good.
I swear putting that thing on took me a good hour or 2 and lots of sweat and swearing lol too many little things to adjust especially as I didn't have the hole welded onto my bike, so many moving parts
Love the blend of aesthetic and functionality of your bike!
thank you :) I love my bike but I didn't realize this many others would too! So nice to see the kind comments
Things I love on my dutch city bike:
- hub dynamo, with quality dynamo lights (Herrmans MR8)
- thick rack (10mm steel tubes) with these elastic thingies I bought for 6€ that work SO WELL to carry stuff.
- good tires: Marathon Supreme FW, Marathon Plus RW (probably could have just bought standard Marathon).
- suspension 4-bar linkage seatpost 🤩 (on a dutch city bike the comfort gain is INCREDIBLE), less so on a road bike or mtb.
- quality contact points (good saddle, good grips, good mountain bike pedals).
As a massive bike nerd, let me congratulate you on your exquisite taste.
To say "shimano 600" is nothing great hurts my heart. Back in the day it was second only to the top of the line parts (Dura Ace) you could get from Shimano. Sure, they are vintage parts, and wont be as expensive as a "modern" road bike parts (groupsets), but they are VERY NICE :)
I take it back! 🫣 Another viewer in my previous video mentioned how Shimano 600 back in the day was IT, I just figured with all the fancy new stuff that thieves wouldn't be looking at a Shimano 600 for parts and $$. I love them :D I have a mix of new tech and vintage in my home and products I own and I wouldn't swap these for anything else. I was actually bummed back in the day I didn't have Campagnolo, it seems the more expensive or Bianchi's that came after mine equipped theirs with Campagnolo, it's been really hard to find info on my bike other than 1 magazine print I found that I can't re-find.
The first additions to my bicycle after doing some long distance riding:
Lights, Mirror, Phone Holder.
Thanks for the video, helps a lot!
Love your vintage Bianchi, and the nice thing about these old bikes is you can do most of the maintenance at home of you want to.
are the new bikes more complicated to work on and I guess I mean new road bikes? Not all of them are uber specialized, I'm just curious what makes them different
@@GadgetsGearCoffee For the most part, you don't need a lot of specialize tools to maintain a vintage bike. You can get by with tools you have around already. Hex wrenches, pliers, spanners screw driver maybe. If you want to regrease your bearings in your wheels, or crank, you will have to buy a set of cone wrenches, crank puller, and a freewheel remover, but even so you can get them cheaply on ebay used.
I personally think a modern bikes require more specialized tools at a higher cost which most people don't have money for. I think also the systems are more complicated like disk brake or the transmission system which are less forgiving if you don't do it right. I started to do my own bike maintenance when was 15 years old with no instruction 🙂
Shimano 600s are straight. I run 105s on my two multi-geared bikes. Bianchi makes great bikes. Yours is really nice.
I just purchased a 2017 specialized sirrus that I wanted to slowly turn into my main commuter bike! I’m a newbie to biking and commuting with a bike, so thanks for so many great product recommendations!
A mirror is one of the most important things I've added, especially since I'm usually riding on faster roads. It's kind of awesome how beneficial it is and going without one just feels kind of wrong now.
@@baddriversofcolga you have one on each side? I've thought about it
@@GadgetsGearCoffee I have just one on the left side as I'm mostly on single lane roads and haven't really felt the need for a right one yet, although it wouldn't be the worst thing to have two...
Such a beautiful bike. Love all your thoughts on cycling as a useful lifestyle.
Enjoyed the video. Definately agree with everything you said. Personally I like a front rack on my city bikes along with a Dynamo Hub and front light. For me, seeing and being seen are right up there at the top with the utility of the bike. Appreciate you sharing.
That's a beautifully turned out bike. Everything on it makes for a super useful machine. Even your handlebars are set right. Bet you can ride all day long. Enjoy.
Fantastic video. Discovered it by complete chance. I ride a 1971 huffy sportsman step through, I adore the look of these vintage bikes. Yours is in amazing condition and you got the look just right
velo orange and Nitto are one of the best silver racks and lots of options. you can also find out of production Nitto Japanese pieces that goes very well with the architecture of your Bianchi steel frame. Very nice video, awesome!
Vélo orange I've stumbled upon during my research, nice retro esthetic but Nitto is new to me, thanks for sharing. Mine was Linus, same as my bag. It definitely was a challenge finding not only a silver rack but one that would fit sufficient things while also being minimal esthetically
your setup is amazing! That bike is gorgeous!
Indeed.
My bikes came with lights, bells, mudguards, locks, helmets and racks when I got them. One set of the bike lights are dynamo. I use panniers, a front block that can carry a bag and or a trailer when needed. I add extra rechargable lights for emergencies just in case. I do have one of those multi-tools and the extra emergency tube with repair kit though I have had to use it once 4 years. Plus I have some bungee cords/straps.
Commuting by bike isn't necessarily faster than by car but as commuting by car you get say 30 minutes of boredom, on a bike you get 1 hour of joy ^_^
I love rock straps, I started using them recently on my motorbike. Superhelpful when riding two up with my girlfriend and she brings so much stuff that it can't fit into the top case ^_^
@@Dellvmnyam with my short Commutes especially when there is traffic it's actually faster for me! Rok straps are so simple and so effective. Bungee cords would do in a pinch
Love the look of your retro bike.
I finally got panniers (don't know why it took me so long 😅). What a game changer! Imagine being able to get a full load of groceries AND not having your back get all sweaty from a backpack. Plus the back rack stops the rain from splashing up my backside.
Though I /do/ really wish that my bags had backpack straps (or even carrying handles). I bought mine used for a good deal, so I can't complain, but I know for certain the next set I buy will have backpack straps.
that bike is sooo pretty!
The best item of commuter gear I’ve bought so far is a pair of winter boots and Speedplay pedals
In the Netherlands this isn't classified as a commuter bike but as a race bike.
And every type of bike needs to have legally required minimum equipment, like a bell, brakes and reflectors.
A Dutch commuter bike (most of them already there when you buy one) has a straight handle bar, dynamo lights (front and back, the lights are mandatory), a back wheel lock, rear rack is on most bikes already there, on the rear fender the botom piece of the fender is white, chain guard, coat protectors on the rear wheel, a bell.
Reflectors: a white one at the front, a red one at the back (which should not be confused with the rear light), yellow or orange on the pedals (they should be visible both at the front and at the back), and finally two double-sided yellow or orange reflectors that are symmetrical in the spokes of each wheel hanging and/or a reflective white band on each side of the tires
@@vast001 I envy the flatness of the Netherlands to bike. Or rather Amsterdam when I was there a few years ago. I'd love to bike year round too! Our winters are rough for biking some people still do it though. We don't have that many upright Dutch style bikes where I'm from but you do see them around. I saw a video about them once and it doesn't seem like a lot of places outside of the Netherlands had them? Can't remember the details
@@GadgetsGearCoffee Denmark, Germany, Belgium also have bikes like ours.
Although nowadays our winters are mild and not that snowey, I remember snowey winters in my youth (about 40 yrs ago) and still we cycled through the streets with snow on our normal bikes (without any winter additions to the bike), the bike paths weren't swiped clean, some streets weren't even swiped clean.
Althoug the Netherlands seems fiat but it isn't always to us, like in my town the street where the library is on is slightly uphil and on a bike without gears you can feel that.
Or bike paths running through a tunnel.
The RUclips channel Not Just bikes is an expat from Canada and has great video's about our bikes and bike paths and the different bikes we have.
I had always a bike without gears, that was pretty common back in the day.
I added the Redshift Cruise Controll handlebar grips to my 1999 Miyata 621-ST. It made a HUGE difference to long rides
how do they help your ride?
By giving you a larger flatter area for your hands
This was a really good video. I wa surprised when I saw the size of the channel and it wasn’t a much larger professional RUclipsr. Well done
that's quite the compliment, thanks!
My Brooks B67 is starting to break in. Now I fell like I am sitting in it instead of on top of it. What a great buy.
I've almost pulled the trigger on that sooooo many times, read the reviews, checked out which saddles would be good for small female riders specifically but still have not
Thanks for this. You and your bike are definitely too cool for school.
@@karinjohnstone6690 😎
omg, gorgeous build!! love the downtube shifters, so reliable!
How come you don't need to worry about battery? There are some things in your comments I'm going to need to research! Thanks for sharing
@@GadgetsGearCoffee the front wheel generates electricity for the front and backlight, they're wired alltogether discretly. You can find these wheels pre-built for pretty cheap now. Shimano makes some very reliable and priceable ones. SON is a better brand, lighter but more expensive. The setup is very easy too!
I agreed The bike rack is a big plus.. fenders I’m still debating on.
@@porkchop1343 do it, you won't regret it. It barely shows honestly. Even a tiny bit of wet ground caused too much splashing on my back
That helmet looks great on you, I think I want to get one like that for my bike! 🚲
They all need that hole for locking!
Consider a hard hat cover, HiViz with reflective strips
You have a very cute helmet :)
I'm glad you like the helmet! It keeps my head safe and looking stylish.
I have a Garmin radar built into my bike ..I really like my new bike & I love riding it to the cafe for breakfast .. it’s a specialized Como 5.0 IGH .. it just fits my lifestyle beautifully .. a gift from my mother , I’m 57 .
To try a Varia is to buy one
Wouldn't ride without it
Pricey but still less than my ER copay
This is a great video. Thanks for sharing. I highly recommend having a patch kit and a small air pump. If you travel far and get a flat you can fix it and not walk home.
need tire levers too if you want to do this
Beautiful bikes and those are very sought after parts in NYC, lol.
my must have was a bike trailer , I use it to haul wood for my wood stove , Free heat
ohhh cool, I was looking into bike trailers for a festival I go with my e-bike to haul all the camping gear, kind of abandoned that project for now but working on another that I hope comes to fruition
Hey there! You gave me some good ideas here! Curious if the lock on your panier tote bag makes a rattling noise when you're riding?
A bit but not too much
I recommend safety tabs if you have fenders. Without them, debris can get stuck in between your tire and fender and lock the wheel up. It's rare but if it does happen it could throw you over the handlebars
@@fakemagic105 I just searched that up, never seen that before! Thanks for recommendation
When it’s Christmas time I put LED Christmas lights on. I also cover my panniers with pins like my cowboy kitty or “Science Is Real”. They make me happy
oh those are cute ideas! I actually have tons of pins and I never know where to put them so I may put a pin or 2 on a bag :D the LED are fun, I got a few ?LED products for my wheels but they always all broke so I gave up on those :(
hmmm a climate change is real, bike instead pin or something would be cool
Sweet ride. 💕 🚲🚲🥰
She is a beaut
Very cool setup and lively and informative presentation style. Like the way you customized your bike, coordinating your gear so it’s aesthetically pleasing and functional. What size rok straps do you have? Been using bungees cords. Would like to try the straps. Must admit the drop handle bars seem to make it look like the cyclist knows what he or she is doing, but I am a hybrid bicyclist who prefers a more upright riding position. My cockpit is crazy busy. I always ride with my action camera mounted there, have an electronic remote controlled motion sensor/horn anti theft device, a small but pleasantly loud bell, a bike computer, headlight, left and right rear view mirrors and believe it or not an air horn attached to the head tube. Everything is color coordinated-navy blue and black are the dominant colors. Have a black rear rack, expandable panniers, a tail light, U-lock with cable, and some basic tools I carry in the top compartment of my “saddle bags.” Also have a detachable mud guard attached to the down tube. Oh yes, I always carry an electric bike pump. I use my mirrors, computer, and U-lock regularly and inflate my tires before leaving the house. Whew! The other stuff I rarely use but I like having all of it with me just in case. Bike is pretty heavy but I can keep up with other hybrid bike riders. Not into speed anyway. Just like having fun-like you. Really appreciated your approach to urban cycling. Thanks for sharing! One more thing I like how your rear wheel requires a special tool to remove the wheel and how you lock the front wheel and frame!
ROK Straps Adj. 12-42 X 5/8" Stretch in BLACK-2 In A Pack amzn.to/3YRoH73
what is a bike computer?
@@GadgetsGearCoffee Thanks will order now😊
@@GadgetsGearCoffee My bike computer is modest. Here are the functions: speedometer, distance traveled, average speed, total distance, maximum speed, and time of day. Brand and model-Velo 7 Cateye. Some bike computers offer way more functionality. I love my basic one-perfect for my purposes. Battery lasts a long time! And last time I checked the computer was very affordable and doesn’t take up much space either. Top of the line ones will give mapping, weather conditions, you name it, etc,, etc.
As a bike commuter, the only accessories I use are the bike and a lock so I can find the bike where I left it
You should look into getting a new saddle, maybe a nice Brooks B17 to match your bartape
@@saisamsuri I have so many times. Then reading about breaking it in and finding the right saddle especially as a petite woman I wasn't sure it was worth it. But I may keep an eye out for a used
Hey there ❤️ how did you connect the bracket arms on the rear rack. Where can I get those adapters. I too was hesitant on putting a rear rack on my bike but I gave in and got a temporary rack that connects to the seat post. It does the job for now but I would like to replace it with one similar to yours. I have a vintage as well. Trek 1200 1992 all original parts I just changed tubes and tires but the owner barely used it so it looks and rides great❤️ I almost got a Bianchi that was a bit modern but I wanted something vintage with down levers. Hope you see this and respond.
I can't find the exact ones I got and I can't recall where I bought mine but something like this should do the trick amzn.to/4eKZ2Bw
@@GadgetsGearCoffee thanks ❤️
Points of contact: sandpaper-like surface pedals, SelleRoyal RespiroRelaxed and ErgonGP5 grips on my ScottStrike e-Ride. NitecoreBr25 front light and MagicShineSeeMee 300 are the main lights and both shine under the bike too, not only in front and rear! I also have a Fenix HM65R-T on the helmet. And a GarminFenix 6X Pro as a mini-computer. The bike was a gift ftom my brother, i could never bought a 5000 € bike. Its overkill for me, in fact i rarely use it because its difficult to get in and out the basement where i keep it. But i enjoy it very much.
when it's too precious and you're too stressed to take it out on rides >.
❤️🧡💛💚💙👽👽👽✌🏾✌🏾✌🏾✌🏾✌🏾 Bikes & Biking ForEver!!!
ayyy bianchi gang
and i think im gonna get a thousand helmet that matches mine too lol
Just got another subriber!
bike gloves will be helpful in case of a low-speed fall, but if you fall from your bike at say anywhere around 20km/h like I did (thank you, tram tracks!!) and put your weight on one hand, I'm afraid you're going to break a bone (mine was the left radius).
@@giovanbattistafichera8439 Ah ya of course it'll happen. It's instinct to put your hands down, if the gloves can help a little it's worth it. It's saved me from a few slow falls
Thx for the video! Such a beautiful bike and perfectly setup for commuting. Did you decide to raise the handlebars to make it more comfy?
ya, the stem the bike shop ended up getting was a little higher than what I would've gone with, especially aesthetically I found it didn't look so balanced but I got used to it and I'm fine with it now. I'm still in a "fast ride position" but way more comfy of a ride
@@GadgetsGearCoffee Hopefully we'll get to see your whole bike collection in the future!
Cateye front light in daylight mode,so I'm not T-boned at junctions by motorists. I always use gloves as I fall when wobbly walking as I've cerebral palsy. I've been cycling for sixty years,since I was six. The UK is not bicycling friendly.
@@Nemo59646 hopefully it changes! A lot of cities are slowly becoming more bike friendly, thankful my city is very bike friendly
being pretty with your bike way more important than being safe or confortable!!
@@peterferry1646 why not both? I'm comfortable and safe enough and I want a pretty bike. The best safety gear is the one you actually wear
how much did your bike setup cost? as in the frame, rack, fenders and everything else permanently attached to it
I got the bike used for 400, a bit expensive for a used in my city BUT it was pretty much intact when I got it (as in the person bought it in the 80s, didn't really ride it, and finally sold it). The rest, you'd need to add things up, it's all in the description
I have Spokey Dokes, that I will be putting on when I ride with my grandniece. She is six, has just learned to ride without training wheels, and I hope these make her laugh. Of course, I saved all the pink colored beads ones for her bike.
Aww that's a nice grand uncle!
She's like Zach Gallardo ❤ I like her
What bike do you have? Really cool!
ruclips.net/video/wFo-BiGSuGg/видео.html
What an absolutely beautiful bike. I loved this video.
My manual bike is a pretty basic 7 year old Meriva Crossway 10 hybrid.
It's black so everything I added is mostly either black or grey.
I have it covered front to rear in racks and bags large and small for carrying stuff plus two large trailers for carrying anything from 70 kg of shopping and whatever to a full sized lawnmower or a 400 litre tub to..........
Mirrors on each handlebar for safety, fittings for a variety of lights front and back, a polite little ding ding bell, a friendly "hi-ho hello" bulb horn and an angry electronic horn for those rare occasions when I want a sound to say "you nearly killed me you &_@(!"& @&?#!!!!!
And I have a 30cm handlebar extension for holding all of this extra stuff and more.
I don't keep it polished and gleaming because it's basically an all round workhorse.
I do keep it in good mechanical working order and that's good enough for me.
I'm definitely a maximalist and not a minimalist when it comes to fitting out my bikes (just bought a new Cube Kathmandu e-bike) for practical car alternative everyday utilitarian use.
But there is definitely so much of me in this bike. It really is an extension of who I am when I'm riding it.
Because I'm 2 metres tall and my bike is an XL frame size, it absolutely and unmistakably stands out and above every other bike it's parked alongside.
My latest addition is handlebars mitts for the cold and wet weather here in Ireland.
We rarely get snow and occasionally icy roads would be the biggest obstacle to keep me off the roads on two wheels. I live in a rural area so side roads won't be gritted in winter.
I wish you and your beautiful Bianchi many more years of safe pedaling.
wait does your horn actually go: "hi-ho hello"?
@@GadgetsGearCoffee No, unfortunately it does not actually go "hi-ho hello" although I'm the sort of person who would think that would be sooooooo cool if it did! 😎
What I mean is that it has quite a musical tone and when you squeeze the rubber bulb in and out, it does sound like a musical hel-lo or hi-ho.
It's a very friendly tone.
There are some people I know who always want to give it a few squeezes whenever they meet me.
It's definitely not an angry sound no matter how hard or how fast you squeeze it.
That's why I have the electronic horn for those very special occasions.
Basically it's very cute and it just adds extra personality to the bike.
Best helmet is the one you wear
100% It doesn't have MIPS, it probably wouldn't be in the top 10 "best safe helmets tested" video but it passes certification, keeps me safe and most importantly, I wear it.
Whats the specific name of that bycicle? Its very nice and I would like to purchase one myself!
Check out my precious video where I give a tour of the bike. It's a vintage so you won't easily find it
@@GadgetsGearCoffee I live in Belgium, we find all sorts of bikes here! Living close to the Netherlands helps aswel! Ty for the reply
Hi, I searched the web and couldn’t find the bike frame anywhere, can you please tell me what the model is called?
@@levibelflower6088 I couldn't even tell you so if you figure it out let me know. I found a magazine clipping of it once in a deep dive I haven't been able to find again since. It's from the 70-80s I think more 80s though
@@GadgetsGearCoffeethank you i just got a vintage nishiki and I loved your bike so much.
Closest I found was Eco Pista but it's not quite the same saarf.london/2014/02/28/bianchi-1984-vintage-roadbike-catalo/
it might be a Bianchi Veloce from the 80s
Im a white guy but I just realized this is the first non-white non-male i’ve seen on biketube. Thank you for being here. Very good video.
@@ColeDunham365 appreciate the comment Cole :) when I started RUclips it did not escape me that I would offer something different from the majority and I'm glad to bring that representation, diversity and different perspective and it's been noticed and well received
Best statement in your video was that it doesn't need to serve a function if it brings you joy. If not for the joy of riding then why?
Have you tried Dutch style bicycles before?
I call those bikes tralala bikes haha. I have. In Amsterdam actually. They're fun, more chill upright but I like the speed I changed my stem this year so I'm a little more upright and it's a little more comfy
Heavy and with small gear range , good only if it is as flat as Holland
If you don’t use the bell, they are pissed if you pass them… having a MIK rack is awesome, I like using a basket but not all the time…
@@SolarizeYourLife you're damner if you do and damned if you don't. It's been all men upset and aggressive with me. So that's the trend unfortunately. I think sometimes they're actually upset I passed them. So odd. What's an mik?
Wish I could commute to work. 17 miles to work and in Florida weather, theres no way. 😢
@@Mydailydadlife oooff that's long. An e bike could help though
since the bike is for daily usual commuting, those handlebars are gonna give you back pain in just a little while if it isnt already
@@lalalops833 why? I got a different stem so it's higher up. And I'm more flexible than the average person so I can ride it with the higher stem no issues comfortably without warming up
@@GadgetsGearCoffee It makes you lean forward, i had back pain for half a year till i randomly decided taller handlebars looked cooler. Same logic as not lifting with your back but with your legs, not slouching when on the computer, etc
@@lalalops833 yup that makes sense. Every body is different, my flexibility and strength means I don't have issues. My bike rides are also 20-30 mins max one way
@@GadgetsGearCoffee No, I'm saying this REGARDLESS of flexibility and strength. continuous and usual back strain will hurt you. 20 minutes everyday is over an hour in a week, over 6 hours every month. Now imagine that amount of time compounded over a career's time. This is the reason people will get carpal tunnel when they work an office job, no amount of confidence will save your joints from poor ergonomics
What? No gumwall tires to match your brown handlebars and (brownish?) seat? Maybe when you need to replace your existing ones!
ohhhh trust me, that has definitely crossed my mind but until my tires give out, I won't change them for the time being. I do however have the beautiful brass rims I haven't seen anywhere else (granted I didn't look too long) and that matches my bike! and the wheels being black matches my bike enough
Does she live in New Jersey?
that's a first, do I have a New Jersey accent?
@@GadgetsGearCoffee they don't give you bags at the grocery store.
2 years later I see u replaced brake hoods
@@amonynous9041 ya but they are a universal fit and they don't fit perfect but it's fine, I just don't pay attention to it
@@GadgetsGearCoffee I've been riding my bike for 25 years, and I've never changed a single part apart from tires, so I decided it was time to give some love back. A new seat and handlebar tape, new brake cables, so this part was extra... completely unecessary but I felt obliged to restore it to its original glory, even though it is overpriced with shipping for a piece of rubber. the original part was hidden under some yukky tape, and you can only imagine what it was after 50 years from the original owner, I'm glad I got rid of that.
@@amonynous9041 I completely understand, I was about to buy OEM brake hoods on ebay for way more money than what it's worth and opted out of doing so
@@amonynous9041 I think something I am going to order is a chain guard that's brown pleather to match the rest of my bike, something that someone proposed on my last bike tour video
@@GadgetsGearCoffee I try to keep these things to a minimum, no mudguards, no chain guards, no cargo racks, it's completely stripped bike with only crucial stuff. If I need to carry groceries I take a rucksak.
I do in all weathers snow rain hail wind hurricane cycled in the lot .
That helmet has a German ww2 look to it. weird.
I was thinking more equestrian style
I might order one just to see
Safety? They look good so check... Sigh
I want both, I got both. Boom.
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Wait, did you jump over your bike?
mystère
@@GadgetsGearCoffee Wait, are you bilingual?
@@jerrykovis5417 yep
Your so beautiful
Please stop using the bell for pesedtrians, especially in places where pedestrians are allowed. An "excuse me" or "on you left" is a lot better. If you're walking, with your thoughts and all of a sudden you hear a bell, you get scared imagining a cyclist barreling towards you. This causes the pedestrian to get flustered and not know where to go.
@@SamSeama it's a touristic area where there is a clear no pedestrian sign allowed and they don't care or don't see it and nobody is there to enforce. Also some areas it's shared but shared does not mean taking up all the space. As a pedestrian, they can walk on another gravel path next to it or take up less room. No need to be walking as a group wizard of oz style taking up the entire path that's already small and overgrown as is
@@GadgetsGearCoffee where the sign is clear, I get it. Get on a bike path, expect bikes. The rest of it, not really. Imagine a driver honking at you, and passing you close. His reason: "It's a shared street and your bicycle doesn't take much space. There's also a perfect sidewalk you can ride on, or at least stay close to the edge where all the gutters and the trash is, you can handle it, right?" Your bicycle for a pedestrian is kind of like a car for a cyclist.
@@SamSeama we're not allowed to ride on sidewalks here and whenever I do ride on the streets with cars, I'm very aware of my vulnerability and I do make sure to not take up too much room when I can. I assume I *may* get hit and so I bike with that in mind. I get the bell can be "alarming" but let's not equate a bike bell with the honk of a car, it's absolutely not the same.
Whenever I ring my bell, I usually am the one to move out the way but it's to let people know I'm passing as I've had too many people not pay attention or decide to giggle and push their friends or something or make sudden movements. I'm still of the belief if you're a pedestrian (without a stroller or a good reason), don't be on a bike path even if it's shared especially when there is literally a path to walk on right next to it. Just some people don't want the gravel road even though it's safer for everyone.
In a restaurant the staff typically will tell others: "Behind you!"
It's not honking at you to get out of the way, it's a warning so you are prepared.
@@SamSeama
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