BIANCHI ARGENTIN X4 1987

Following on from the “X3” and “Centenario”, Bianchi produced the “X4”

from 1986 utilising the same Columbus aero SLX tube set.

The prototypes of the X4 were used by the Sammontana-Bianchi cycling team,

with Moreno Argentin riding a prototype based on a Centenario frame-set in

the 1986 UCI Road World Championship road race in Colorado Springs. He

famously won this race for Italy and wore the rainbow jersey the following year

riding “X4’s” for team Gewiss-Bianchi.

The Bianchi “X4” is considered by many to be the pinnacle of steel framed

racing bicycles until phased out during the early 90’s by the introduction of

Aluminium and Carbon frames.

This 1987 “X4” serial number D.413 has been refinished as a replica of

Moreno Argentin’s World Championship winning bike.

As Argentin’s frame was based on a Centenario frame set, master frame painter

Joe Cosgrove was able to find a modern paint shade that gives a good

impression of the Centenario’s dark brown special finish. This was used for the

fork, head tube, and rear triangle as per Argentin’s original. Bianchi themselves

produced some “Argentin” specials in the late 80’s, but used plain black

highlights and contemporary later group sets.

All components on this bike as as per Argentin’s 1986 bike:

Early C-Record crankset, derailleurs, levers, hubs and seat post.

C-Record “Cobalto” brakset and levers.

Selle Italia turbo saddle, 3ttt bar and stem (Argentin used the “Centenario”

pantographed version).

Campagolo track pedals - with there narrower Q factor.

Ambrosio rims, with Regina American freewheel.

The bike is a joy to ride as any owner of any “X4” will confirm.