David Fryer wrote:
> Footnote to Gitane Tandem
>
> Mine has Mafac centre-pull brakes (they work very well),
> and TA cranks / chainwheels (15 speeds, but no granny cog).
> The frame is lightweight; can't remember what tubing.
> Thinks: Maybe the US models were shortchanged with cheaper
> components.........?
My early 80s Gitane tandem has Stronglight 99 cranks (50-45-28) and MAFAC tandem cantilever brakes in addition to the Atom drum brake. I've not had any problems with the Atom brake in the 20 years I've owned it, nor the rest of the wheels (40 spoke MAVIC Mod.E rims) except the original tires (Hutchinson) which barely lasted a month. The frame is neither terribly light nor outrageously heavy, but it seems sturdy enough. Anonymous tubing.
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John (john@os2.dhs.org)
Appleton WI USA