> > "The great constructeurs Singer, Herse, Routens > > and others never were household words." > > > Ah... well then.. can they ever be considered to > have contributed to the "French Bicycle Culture" > either in France or abroad?
Peter, Like many things, it all depends... There were many less expensive randonneur bikes made in France and these achieved a measure of popularity and infuence in France and beyond her borders. So if the great constructeurs essentially defined the design parameters for this type of bicycle then they are ultimately some of the greatest contributors to "French Bicycle Culture". If they were simply providing the ultimate, most expensive expression of this type of bicycle, then they are something else again. Lack of name recognition does not necessarily imply a lack of influence or importance. Since the term "mojo" gets used often on this list, let's use an analogy from popular music. Only a minority of music fans have heard or would recognize the name Muddy Waters, yet his influence and importance is incalculable and far exceeds those of many people who have sold millions of records. Such might also be the case with Singer, Herse, Routens, et al. Best regards, Fred Rednor - got my mojo workin' tonight in Arlington, Virginia