Help ID Motobecane
 

Someone gave me this bike, they were going to throw it away. I'd appreciate some help ID'ing it. The person that gave it to me said he bought it new in either the late 60's or early 70's he couldn't remember for sure. I think it says Tour de France on the top tube, but the decal is so badly worn it's hard to say for sure. The brakes, bar tape, and seat have been replaced but everything else seems to be original. It shift fine and it's ride-able despite it's rust. Worth trying to restore for fun or just a cheap bike that has seen it's last days and should be let go?

welcome to the forum ptmon, :)

looks to be a mid-60's Mirage/Nomade model.

would make a fine restoration project from the standpoint of learning. not especially valuable. it is fortunate that it is nearly all original and looks to have no damage. disassembly, cleaning, polishing & lubrication would be the order of the day...

+1 on an early Mirage. For me, it was the Allvit derailleur. Have you checked the hubs, cranks or rear derailleur for 2-digit date codes on the original parts? The steel cranks give some parameters, as well.

Thats an old Moto, pre 1970. Its got a great look to it. That old patina gives it a lot of character. I would put some MAFAC brakes and an old aged leather saddle on it and calll it refurbed. Cool old bike, the kind I am always on the look out for.

hello again ptmon,

if you should elect to restore there is no shortage of help to be had here at the forum. :thumb:

this model was also sold as Astra/Orly/Dynamax brand in case you decide to do any searching for threads here at the forum or for pictures on the various photo host sites. ;)

Restore it to a safe (for you and it's parts) level and enjoy it. The old moto's ride pretty nice, I have an old similarly equipped mixte that shifts great, only required a little adjustment. Good luck!