I had an old Peugeot from the 70s that I bought when I was in junior high school. Steel wheels, wing nuts instead of quick releases, simplex derailleurs. The lowest end, entry level European road bike of the era. I sold it to my Italian neighbour in the mid 80s, for more than the original purchase price because
" It isn't Japanese crap, its not made of that cheap white metal."

Riv bikes definitely occupy a unique niche in the bike world. If they appeal to you, by all means get one. If not, there are plenty of good bikes out there,as this thread shows.