The country of origin doesn't matter, and many of those tendencies are era specific. Find a bike that you like for whatever reason. Not all french bikes ride the same, not all italian...etc.
Best bang for your buck is often Japanese...or small name stuff that others aren't aware of. You can build up a great gravel bike with an 80s all arounder if that's what you mean.
Last edited by KonAaron Snake; 06-01-15 at 06:00 PM.