Spell checker doesn't catch transposed numbers....

The earliest foil decals appeared in 1967 - I'm assuming late 1967.

This is about a 1967 European TdF - 3 main tubes Reynolds 531. Notice the foil on the head tube. That had to be a time consuming operation and was discontinued by 1969 or 70.



The US version TdFs weren't available until at least February, 1969 (Mel Pinto 1968 price list).



In 1974 Gitane Pacific became the primary importer/distributor for Gitane in the US. At the same time the models changed: paint and cosmetics improved (somewhat) and the decals changed to clear film with yellow green graphics. (Decal sets from Cyclomondo)



I had a 1974 foil decal TdF in almost new condition. It was probably one of the last US model bike made. It had Sugino Mighty Compe cranks. The Pivo stem had a recessed hex expander bolt. I would have kept it but the frame was a 60cm.



verktyg

Chas.