Thanks! What a nice paint job! My gitane is/was orange but a much deeper orange. I might repaint it if I really like the ride-otherwise superbeater it is. I already have a precious fair weather only vintage 5 speed raleigh in original glory EXCEPT that I did put a mega range freewheel on the back because of the hills where I live. I will definitely put an ultra range on the gitane!
I am looking for a spindle that might work and to look for a crank set. I am undecided about a double or triple front chainring since I can actually get around on the 5 speed raleigh. I will keep in mind that simplex are not that great. The derailleurs were not working very well when I test rode the bike so no love lost there.