MOTOBECANE
Updated 9.5.2016
Motobecane bicycles have a particular place in the hearts and minds of vintage bikes buffs, especially those of us who were first introduced to lightweights in the 1970s. Established in 1923, by 1984 Motobecane had become a top French brand with 2000 employees. Later it became as “MBK.”
In very recent years, this brand has reappeared on mail-order Chinese-made bikes, apparently as a result of a licensing arrangement.
The Nomad:
A basic “sports touring” bike competing with the Raleigh Record.
The Mirage:
A more deluxe bike featuring QR wheels, lighter tubing competing with the Raleigh Grand Prix and the Schwinn LeTour.
The Grand Touring:
A sporty “day touring” model using 3 tubes Vitus chrome moly….
The Sprint:
A pseudo racing model wih tighter geometry. Competed with Gitane Interclub.
The Jubilee:
A very refined bike with Nervex lugs and Reynolds tubing. Mostly French components incl. Stronglight 49, Jubilee derailleurs, etc.
The Grand Record:
Partial Campy, 531 db, Nervex lugs and a distinctive black paint with red head tube and seat bands.
Le Champion:
Top model with road race geometry, more refined workmanship. Various top European components, later becoming full Campy. Often shared frame set with Team Champion.
