I’ve owned the Officina Battaglin Bassanese for over a year, it’s become my main bike for weekend group rides with friends.

I didn’t originally purchase the Bassanese as a replacement for my custom titanium bike, but I just loved riding the Battaglin so much my other bike has been relegated to the status of second bike.

Over the past few years my interest in steel bikes was rekindled through participation in a vintage steel bike event held in Australia, called Noosa Strade Bianche (similar to L’Eroica).

I loved riding the old 80’s road bikes so much I thought it would be fun to build up a steel bike with modern componentry.

I was however reluctant to convert an original 80’s bike.

That’s when I discovered that Officina Battaglin had decided to build a new range of steel bikes.

The Bassanese model stood out because it was made in accordance to the original Battaglin blueprint of their famous steel racing bikes of yesteryear.

When the frame arrived I was very impressed by the quality craftsmanship and the gorgeous paint work.

The attention to detail is second to none, the pantographed forks and steering tube are simply beautiful.

What really took me by surprise, however, was the riding experience.

I had assumed that it wouldn’t be as lively as my titanium bike, and that without a carbon fork the ride would be a little rougher and the handling a little skittish in corners.

How wrong could I be, the Bassanese provides a super comfortable and stable platform for big days in the saddle.

It also offers a sprightly and responsive ride and inspires confidence in corners.

To my surprise, I have racked up numerous personal bests on Strava, including my best time up the local climb at Akuna Bay.

The bike also attracts many a compliment from cyclists out on the road.

Skinny tubed steel bikes with modern components just look brilliant.

All of the above does make me wonder just how good would a Battaglin Power+ Disc be?”