Newbie Converting a Bianchi Bergamo

[kstep7711]

HI
I've been riding a Bianchi Bergamo for the last few years as a city commuter but would like to convert it over the winter to a usable touring bike. I plan to take week/2 week unsupported rides for the first time. I really cannot afford another bike at this time so i need advice on what changes I should make.  

[RussellSeaton]

Assuming the 2005 version of your bike is roughly what you have, it looks like it will do fine enough for touring as is.  I'll assume the rear rack is solid.  Just get some rear panniers and you are ready to go.  You can tour on any kind of bike just fine.  The only thing unique about touring is figuring out how to carry what you want to carry.  You could also use a clamp on front low rider rack and use front panniers too.  Or pull a trailer.  I'll assume the gearing on your bike is low enough to climb any hill you run across.  Looking at the specs, getting lower would be difficult.

http://www.bianchiusa.com/05_bergamo.html

[DaveB]

One change I'd make is to fit clipless pedals and compatible shoes.  

Shimano's SPD or Crank Brothers Eggbeater pedals with their double sided entry and recessed cleats make a great touring combination. The cost should be reasonable too.

[TCS]

(Thoughts based on the '05 specs Russell found.)

If you are planning light touring, you should be good to go, provided the bike is in good shape.

If you are planning self-contained, camping/cooking touring, where you would be carrying substantially more gear/weight, you would probably want to add a front rack and probably get a stronger rear rack.  Your budget 32 spoke wheels would be the next point I'd be concerned about with touring loads, although the Bergamo's 38mm wide tires would help.  You could take the wheels to a good wheel builder - if you can find one in your area - for careful truing/tensioning prior to the tour.  Your lowest gear ratio (20 inches) should be more than adequate.

HTH,
tcs

This message was edited by TCS on 1-7-09 @ 6:03 AM