1960s Special Arliguie demi-course French bike. 59cm. Original condition. (SOLD)
Lovely Arliguie, in an excellent original condition, from the reputed French manufacturer Cycles Arliguie.
Founded by Renè Arliguie (1911-1995) in 1947, Cycles Arliguie was a renowed French bicycle maker, manufacturing quality hand-made bikes of different types in the south of Paris. Its racing models competed succesfully in the Tour de France for almost 20 years, achieving stage wins ridden by Lucien Lazaridès in 1954 and 1955.
Arliguie bicycles from the 50s and 60s (the golden era of handbuilt French bicycles) are rare today, and really hard to find in England, being this example one of the very few that have crossed the channel.
It comes in a practical demi-course spec, with a 8 speed drive train, charming full-lenght mudguards, integrated rear rack, and front/rear lights powered by a dynamo (working). Other components, among others, include an excellent Pryma leather saddle, legendary Huret Allvit derailleur, Pivo alloy stem and lovely butterfly wheel nuts. All very French.
Frame has a relaxed geometry and great detailing, with nice “Special Arliguie” decals, French flags, and above all, the iconic devil with the trident in headtube, a figure who characterised most Arliguies from the era.
We wanted to keep this bike original: the vast majority of what you see is exactly as it left the Montargis factory over 50 years ago. Therefore there are many marks in paint and other cosmetic imperfections in components, but that is a fair price to pay for full originality!
It has been fully serviced, including new tyres, new bearings all round, new bar tape and new cables. All components replaced for safety reasons have been chosen respecting the personality of the bike: the tan-walled tyres, white cable outers and cloth-type bar tape are a close match of the original equipment of the bike.
Everything works and it makes a fantastic ride which transports yourself to the great days of French cycling. Smooth, forgiving and actually quite fast if pushed!
Overall, an excellent, rare French road bicycle with wonderful heritage which blends style and function to perfection.
