When I was racing in the early "70s, Gitane Tour de France was an entry level racing bicycle, just as the PX-10 and my first bike, a '69 Raleigh Pro. They were good bikes and still are. Most of us that stayed with racing moved up to the Italian bikes because of a shorter wheel base and stiffer frame, as well as a complete Campy gruppo. Put Lance on a Gitane Tour de France and he'd still when races. If I was offered a Gitane, I'd take it. I still ride my PX-10 and get lots of nice comments and the Gitane will do the same. There will always be those who say otherwise.
Ted Trambley
Martinez,Ca USA