This is my Bernard Carre´, circa late 60's/early 70's. When it popped up on French eBay advertised as a "randonneur," we debated on the CR list whether that was an apt description or not. Cantilever brakes and lots of tire clearance stimulated the debate. Norris, I think, declared it to most likely be a 'cross bike, and that's pretty much where the discussion landed. I liked what I saw and had already pulled the trigger before any conclusions had been reached.



I've built the frame up a couple of ways, usually with wildly incorrect parts, and I did (very briefly) build a sort of drop bar rough stuff ride at one point. I love the feel of the ride though, and began to collect together some French stuff that I also like. During the first quarantine last spring, I put together a French road bike, which is probably the final-ish version.



So, was this originally a 'cross bike. I tend to think so. Others have shared with me examples of racers who used cantis, and they are confident theirs interpretation is more accurate. I leave it to you to reach your own conclusion.