Classic and Vintage Bicycles: What's it Worth? Appraisals and Inquiries - Fontan frame - value?

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cooper34

05-14-09, 05:42 AM

Bike Forums Members:

I am wondering about the value of a French "Fontan" frame and fork. Here are the details:
- Model "Course Competition"
- DuriFort tubing
- Simplex dropouts
- Approx. 63cm (center BB to top of seat tube)
- Chromed fork blades (lower half)
- Chromed chain and seat stays (lower half)
- Stronglight headset in good condition
- French threaded Stronglight BB
- Paint and decals intact but faded
- Early 70s, I believe
- Yellow with black lugs

I have never seen another Fontan frame and there is little info on the internet. However, It appears to be named for the French racer Victor Fontan who was the tragic hero of the 1929 tour of Fance. Interesting story if you enjoy such things (see http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Victor_Fontan)

Your info and opinions appreciated.

Citoyen du Monde

05-14-09, 01:21 PM

Fontan bikes were made by Elvish in the city of Pau. Durifort tubing is nothing special so I doubt that the frame has much value. More a garage sale bike than a real collectible. (My parents both have Elvish bikes)

Ex Pres

05-14-09, 02:11 PM

Think along the lines of an early 70s Gitane Interclub. I'm almost positive mine had a Durifort sticker, but that has been a few years, and more than a few brain cells, ago.

damselfli

10-21-09, 06:50 PM

If you are still out there.....
I own a Fontan. 1974. My brother also has one that belonged to our father. We had 3 of them in the family at one time. I rode my bike HARD for over 30 years. I replaced it in 2005 with a new steel touring bike, but still have it.