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I wish I could tell you more about this bike, but internet looking hasn't turned up much information. I feel pretty certain someone must have dragged over a bike made for the French market (French language on the paint being one hint). I bought this to be my city bike, which I would love to use it for, but in reality it's just too small for me at 6'2".
I suspect that pictures will tell the real story, but here's what I know:
Basics:
Motobecane Prestige commuter
Likely mid-70's era ?? (experts, you can confirm or deny)
55-56cm frame (seat tube)
57cm top tube
32.25" (82cm) standover
Huret front Derailleur
Huret Allivit Rear Derailleur
Huret shifters
Solida cotter pin cranks, basic platform pedals
Motobecane brand brakes
5 spd rear cassette, Double in the front
700cm wheels, 25mm tires mounted now (Conti Ultra, new rear; Panaracer, good front)
steel wheels, textured braking surface
Brooks saddle
The Good:
-doubt you'll find another quite like it.
-all the commuter components are not add-ons, but purpose built for the model with frame mounts including:
Generator + lights & wiring
Spoke lock
chrome fenders
rear rack
pump mounts
-sexy green paint, chrome looks pretty good
-Smooth roller, surprisingly fast (once under way )
-good rubber
-recent LBS tune-up
-Spares included but not pictured:
new front headlight
replacement handlebar set with 'safety' brake levers included
kickstand
period-correct frame pump, but it's missing the working internals
The Bad:
-current light doesn't work (replacement will be included), rear light missing
-There's a ding in the rear wheel which keeps it from being perfect. You won't notice while riding, but you will when braking.
-Someone removed the 'safety' brake levers (top ones), but replacement bars included.
-paint isn't perfect- there are spots of surface rust.
-Could probably use new cables soon.
-Spoke Lock is missing original key, but a re-engineered home-brew replacement will be included
I'm asking $275.
ENTIRE PHOTO ALBUM HERE
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