No one I know calls the frame a mixte unless it has double top tubes: i.e. Those Schwinns above wouldn't be called mixte around here (SF, CA).

Whatever you call them, I think they can make a mighty purdy bike.

https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5583/...f8946a80_b.jpg

.
...it's like pornography, I know it when I see it.:)

Motobecane made a Mixte with a single tube about 3/4 the length of the TT, then split just before the seat tube.

http://bikeforums.net/attachment.php...hmentid=463814

Whoa. That I haven't seen before now.

Not that I have anything to do with anything... but I consider a mixte to have the top tube follow straight to the dropouts. Whether it's 2 tubes, or split, or continued through a lug...

I can't define a mixte, but I know there are two kinds:
1-Those that can use standard parts, which make nice fixies for hipsterettes and upgrades for many a rider.
2-The French ones, which are better used when melted down.

:P

Mom's Motobecane (above) isn't quite ready for the scrap heap.

I do need to tear it down for a tune-up sometime, at which point I'll try to figure out what type of parts it uses. Notes indicate that Motebecane may have been using Swiss threading... is that better?

A modern variation on the theme is mrsbrowngw's 2013 Giant Via 2. Its a nice practical bike and appeals to her sense of style. SRAM 8 speed and comes fully equipped for $499 CDN.

http://www.bikeforums.net/attachment...4&d=1403895822