Articles | How To Choose From The Bianchi Camaleonte Range Of Hybrid Bikes

At first sight the extensive Bianchi Camaleonte can appear somewhat daunting. Where should we start?What is instantly noticeable is the Italian influence - these are bikes of great elegance.
Both quality and nature of the components fitted varies across the range. Spending more money buys you improved gears, forks and brakes, giving you greater stopping and driving power, slicker gear changes and a smoother ride.
The triple-butted aluminium frame is common to all in the range. The tapered tubing is molded using hydroforming. They have clearances for mudguards and fittings for pannier racks. Shimano gears and mechs are also general across the range, but differ in type and quality.
The basic Camaleonte 1 is a superb bike for the money. Shimano supplies the entry-level 24-speed derailleurs. This bike should be just as at home on the road and the trail due to the thicker 32mm tyres and V-brakes.
The next two models in the Bianchi Camaleonte hybrid range, the 2 and 3 would suit the off-road user rather better. While these are not pure mountain bikes, they do have that look.
Both have disc brakes, mechanical on the 2 and hydraulic on the 3. The benefit of disc brakes when going off-road is that they keep the braking surfaces dry and clean. Reduced wear and increased braking power are the result.
The drivetrain components are sourced from the Shimano mountain bike range. However the 3 has the higher-quality LX bits rather than the Alivio & Deore components on the 2. The 3 also has wider tyres and spd-compatible pedals.
The Camaleonte 4 & Camaleonte 5 are quite definitely aimed at those looking for road speed . They have the feel more of flat-bar road bikes though.
The carbon/aluminium forks and rather narrower 28mm tyres, along with drivetrain components from Shimano's road range will mean that they will certainly perform on the tarmac. The 5 is supplied with the rather better Tiagra hardware. They both have V-brakes, as there is less requirement for the off-road capabilities of discs. Both models carry bar-ends, which give you a better range of hand position and so reducing tiredness on extended rides. they are frequently said to help with hill climbing as well. Both are good looking bikes, so again the choice will most likely depend on budget. Either one would suit me.
Any Bianchi Camaleonte evaluation must point out that various bikes within the series are going to suit quite different types of rider. The versatile entry-level Camaleonte 1 is superb value, the rather more specialised 2 & 3 fitted more to off-road riding, while the 4 & 5 are going to be capable of impressive speed on the road.