Manufrance, founded in the 1880s, was a gigantic distributor of cycles, rifles and almost anything useful for a private household. They were based in St Etienne, the city known as the cycle manufacturing cradle of France.

They were the first big french company in the mail-order business. Their success was incredible but came to an end in the 1970s and in the 1980s the troubled company was bought by Bernard Tapie. The same Tapie who at the same time owned the "La Vie Claire Team" and sponsored Bernard Hinault and Greg Lemond.

The differences start with the geometry and the dropouts. This bike has been designed to take mudguards and even a small rack. It is perfectly suited for riding in all conditions even the rain, thus some touring under unpredictable weather conditions does not jeopardize your plans.

All that does not mean the bike is limited to that style of riding. It is as well suited to go for a fast spin or even some classic style commuting.

A jack-of-all-trades when it comes to sportive cycling. And an impressively stylish machine at that! Be prepared to get some compliments when you are riding this beauty!