The years following the second world war saw a revival of the French constructeurs: dedicated riders who also fabricated frames with a holistic approach. Not only did they manufacture their own frames but the racks, fenders and lighting systems as well, viewing the bicycle as a cohesive whole, rather than a collection of separate parts. Maxime Fontvielle revels in the tradition of his countrymen by upholding the same philosophy with his restorations of French designs.
This is a mixte restored for his friend Adèle for her birthday, a rejuvenated frame that aimed to keep as much of the original as possible, while updating it with modern components. The frame, with integrated racks and lights, was repainted in Adèle’s favorite color, and now rolls upon a new wheel set with Sturmey-Archer hubs. The front is a drum-brake X-FD 70mm with a three-speed SRC-3, activated by the original shifters. Vintage lamps and a Brooks B66S saddle complement the original Michelin tires.
See more of Maxime’s work on his tumblr. Special thanks to Gaetan Ducroq for the photography.
