Gitane mixte chainring choices

[cchaven]

Re:

Based on a post on another forum, I checked the back of the original Simplex Prestige rear derailleur for a date code on the back of the cage. After cleaning the grime from it, I found a date code of "2 71". Since manufacturers at that time were scrambling to meet demand, I'm now going to call this mixte a 1971 Gitane.

It'd still be interesting to find out if there is any relevance to the use of either the red or the blue foil decals, though it would seem the foil decals would go out of use by about 1974.

 

[non-fixie]

Re: Re:

Here's a price sheet from the Gitane USA website that says it's from 1971. It shows an 'image' of the Gran Sport DeLuxe with fenders that seem to have the chrome center stripe, but lists them as duaraluminum. The price sheet shows it as 'Gran Sport Deluxe" while the decal on mine is "Grand Sport De Luxe".

http://www.gitaneusa.com/images/catalog ... et-001.jpg

I wouldn't put too much weight on that catalog. I'd put it in the category "well-meant, but didn't get the attention it needed". Duaralumin? Campagnola?