Review Of The Bianchi Camaleonte Range Of Hybrid Bikes
At first sight the Bianchi Camaleonte range can seem confusing. Where should we start? The Italian design influence is undeniable – they have great style. These are well-designed as hybrid bikes – so are great for commuting to work and back and also for covering the miles for fun in the evenings and at weekends.
At first sight it is strange that the price does not just mirror the range number, from 1 to 5. It’s not just the quality of the components that varies across the different models, the type of rider aimed at determines the type of component as well.
All have the same frame. The tubing is triple-butted, tapered and curved using hydroforming. With outstanding paintwork and graphics, these are going to turn heads. They have clearances for mudguards and fittings for pannier racks.
Shimano gears and mechs also feature across the range, but varying in type and quality depending on design emphasis and price.
As an entry-level model, the Camaleonte 1 is great value. The derailleurs are basic Shimano components. With a triple chainset and 8-speed rear cassette, there are 24 gears in your armoury. The alloy V brakes and rather fatter 32mm tyres should mean that the bike would perform just as well off-road than on the tarmac. At just under £600 this cannot be thought of as an inexpensive bike. It’s possible to buy cheaper, but maybe not better.
The next two models in the Bianchi hybrid range, the 2 and 3 would suit the off-road user rather better. Although these are not pure mountain bikes, they do have that appearance.
Both models have disc brakes, those on the 2 being mechanical while the 3 has a hydraulic system. The gear mechs are from Shimano’s mountain bike range, but the 3 is fitted with better LX components compared to the Deore/Alivio bits on the 2. As well as SPD-compatible pedals, the 3 comes with rather wider tyres, 35mm rather than 32mm.
So they will both appeal more to the MTB afficionado, with the choice between them depending on budget. Neither bike has obvious weaknesses – it’s just that the 3 has a bit more quality.
The Camaleonte 4 & Camaleonte 5 are quite definitely aimed at those looking for speed on the road rather than off-road capability, although they are still hybrids. They have the feel more of flat-bar road bikes though.
Both have very nice carbon/aluminium forks, which together with narrower 28mm tyres and gear trains from Shimano’s road bike range will give them a great turn of speed. The 5 is supplied with the rather better Tiagra hardware. Both are fitted with V-brakes, the greater mud-avoiding ability of discs not being so vital here. There are bar ends on both models.
Once again, budget will probably determine the choice between these great-looking bikes. Either one would suit me.
Any Bianchi Camaleonte review must point out that different bikes within the range are going to suit quite different types of rider. The Camaleonte 1 is a great entry-level bike, the Camaleonte 2 & 3 are aimed at off-road use and the Camaleonte 4 & 5 at those looking for speed on the road.
ebek 10kg-shimano alivio 8000