Back in the late 1990s, Bianchi was one of the first bike companies to offer a complete single-speed mountain bike. Earlier, Bianchi offered a few variations of this bike. In 2001, Bianchi finally offered a celeste model, so I snagged one up! I owned and rode the Bianchi C.U.S.S., which represented this early entry into the single-speed mountain bike market, offering me a lightweight alternative to the multi-geared bikes that dominated the era. Riding the challenging terrain of Southeastern Michigan's trail systems, such as the Potawatomi Trail, Highland Recreation Area, and Pontiac Lake Recreation Area, I found the C.U.S.S. to be a competent machine. Its lightweight and simplified drivetrain made it not only fun to ride but also fast, allowing me to achieve personal best times on trails.
Specifications
Original plus dealer installed Rock Shox Sid XC suspension fork.
2001 Bianchi C.U.S.S. = Celeste Ultimate Single Speed. This was the only one from this time period which was made in the classic Bianchi Celeste color.
Size: 19.5" (Large)
Pedals: N/A
Bottom Bracket: Sealed bearing cartridge, 110mm spindle
Chain: Sachs 1/2 x 1/8 inch
Spokes: Stainless steel, 2.0mm
Hubs: Red PAUL Components with rear chain tensioner.
Rims: WTB SpeedMaster, 32-hole
Tires: WTB Moto Raptor 26 x 2.1"
Frame Construction: Easton Ultralight aluminum TIG-welded
Crankset: Race Face w/ 36t chainring
Handlebar: Titec Hell Bent XC
Handlebar Stem: Titec, 25.4 clamp (1"), 28.6 steerer (1-1/8")
Headset: 1-1/8" threadless Black Cane Creek
Saddle: WTB
Seatpost: Titec Black 26.8mm diameter
Brakeset: Mechanical, Avid brakes, Avid Speed Dial 5 levers
Fork: Rock Shox SID XC
Frame Tubing Material: Easton Ultralite
Rear Cog: 18 tooth freewheel
