I do find it a bit strange that they took such a classic design and didn't at least make it more versatile with ability to run rim brakes. It seems odd. But I'm guessing it is cutting costs. Also I think it would have looked nicer lugged.The Riv people said that Velo Orange was a copy of one of theirs, but really its a classic model, isn't it? Like a mixte or a randonneur. Apart from insisting on disc brakes which I find ludicrous, I like the VO. But the original is nicestest.
I prefer the modern looking one
Now this is a bicycle!!!!!!!It's a randonneur, it's quirky, it's cool, it's cute, it's gorgeous.
It's an extensively reworked Araya Micro Hurry 16. Note the rear cable hanger, the front rack and the canti bosses, all made and added by the owner:
The original:
More info about this bike and another red example the owner has modified can be found here:
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Is this an aluminium Crust?