Question was why Motobecanes had odd specifications (at least in US models) Ben Lawee was the master at bike equipment and model names revolved around rear derailleurs (mostly) the Bianchi ''Gran Sport'' was speced around a "Gran Sport'' rear derailleur Motobecane models were the same Grand Record, Jubilee .etc Italvega was the same with Gran Turisimo, NR etc He also figured out that a basic front derailleur didnt subtract from the bike (at least to the consumer) so he often paired a nicer rear derailleur with a lesser front. I am sure he was the first one to figure out that a QR was only needed on the front wheel (most purchasers could take the rear wheel off anyway) Lawee was the leader and most other brands were the follower. Sadly Ben is gone as he would have made a fantastic speaker at our Vintage get togethers But there are some ex Lawee hands on the list so maybe they can chime in
BOB FREITAS
looks like its clearing in MILL
VALLEY, CA USA