Hi- new Here!
I don't fix a lot of bikes but I do pick up stuff at the dump i mean transfer station. That is where I grabbed a 1971 Gitane grand sport deluxe Mixte thinking I could fix it up. It has not been so easy. The frame seemed in great shape- did not look at all bent up. I tried to use as much of the original parts as possible and cleaned it up, changed the brake and shift cables and just rode it for the first time a few days ago. There are several issues but the front wheel seems to be the biggest problem. When I put the wheel in all the way to the bottom of the dropouts it is off-center in the fork and leans to the right. I can cheat by pulling the left side down a little then tightening, but it soon gets off-center and rubs. So it seems as if the left fork is a tiny bit short. Also the forks are spread apart too much- about 100mm inside dim. and the wheel looks like 95mm wide, so they need to bend together. I am not able to upload pics but based on my description does anyone have tips are advice that might help? Great-Thanks! Also, about the rear derailleur/wheel, I guess in the rear you can't push the wheel all the way up into the drop-outs because the one on the right derailleur side is much shorter. So on the back it seems you have to center it and clamp it down. If this is not normal let me know. Thanks!