I found a Cycles Gitane, late 70’s Grand Sport Deluxe, and restored it with Shimano components. “Arabesque” drive train, Dura-Ace brakes. Though everything isn’t period accurate, the bike rides really well.
I used Spray.Bike dry matte powder coating, and their filler and primer. Jury’s out on comparison with spray enamel, but it’s very durable and cleans up well.
Cycles Gitane certainly built some racers, though was mostly known for low to mid range basic transportation. Popular at the time with people who wanted value.
by Wafflewas