Recently ended eBay auction: item no. 310157738411
Yes, a bit rich for my blood. But, this appears uncommonly well finished for that period (or any). Having priced a restoration repaint on a different but similar frameset from the folks at Cyclart several years ago (complete with lug masking, outlining, re-chrome, etc.), I think this admittedly HIGH ebay winning bid is in fact really not so outrageous at all. And, remember, this particular frameset is in beautiful entirely ORIGINAL condition.
With all the recent discussion of "re-paint or let it be..." I think this is a good example of the high value of original condition placed on a bike - at least by some folks. I have not priced such a restoration re-finish recently, but I suspect the total would be considerably less than the final auction amount. Especially, since this particular model had only the lower front fork blades chrome plated - not the headlugs nor any of the rear triangle.
The rather heavy lug lining was really quite typical of the Motobecanes I've seen. However nice this bike (and it is definitely one of my very favorite models - and colors) it is nevertheless a factory production model. So, one would never expect a very finicky attention to detail when painting the lug shores which one of our fine custom builders or painters might lavish on a such bike in their care.
If the buyer is a CR List member, I would certainly love to hear from him - either on or Off List.
BOB HANSON, ALBUQUERQUE, NEW MEXICO, USA
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