2012 Gitane "Definitive" Catalogue

Post by **sandranian** » Thu Sep 15, 2011 6:32 am

World online premier...coming soon!

Post by **sandranian** » Mon Sep 26, 2011 1:46 pm

It's up! First look online of the new 2012 Gitane Definitive line!

http://www.gitaneusa.com/catalogues06.asp

Wisey · Post by **Wisey** » Mon Sep 26, 2011 2:20 pm

Well, the red one looks great, but did anyone else notice that the entire range is now called DEFINITIVE? Looks like they are going to phase out Gitane altogether.

Post by **sandranian** » Mon Sep 26, 2011 2:27 pm

Noticed that. Not very happy about it. I am wondering why they would do that, considering the fact that Cycleurope's own study showed that the brand recognition of Gitane is very high (in France). Why spend the money to build up another brand id??? I just don't understand...but then what do I know?

Post by **sandranian** » Mon Sep 26, 2011 4:12 pm

Even going to be splitting the website:

http://www.gitane.com/

http://www.definitive-gitane.com

LAME!!!

Peter S. Horn · Post by **Peter S. Horn** » Fri Sep 30, 2011 6:18 pm

I just noted the new "The One-ISP", in black. I did not note any differences (from last year) apart from the new color schemes, so far. The Gitane name is, apparently, included on the downtube, left and right sides, albeit in small script. Really nice! I am still regretting that D-G is not reprising some of the great classic models from a storied past; i.e. S.C. and T.D.F., T.P., T.R. (various years), etc.
Peter H.

Post by **sandranian** » Fri Sep 30, 2011 8:04 pm

The carbon mold is the same. As I understand it, the materials for putting together a carbon bike are very inexpensive, as is the labor. The part that costs the money is in developing and manufacturing the mold. You have to get your money's worth out of it over time, before the next one comes out. Look at the Specialized Roubaix. When it first came out, it cost a bundle. As soon as the mold was paid off, they dropped in price by $1K (at least).

Trident · Post by **Trident** » Wed Oct 19, 2011 6:20 pm

This may be a crazy question, but does anyone know how to purchase a new Gitane? I wouldn't mind getting a mid-range GTN 600. Is there any way to work with someone in France that would ship one over here? Has anyone ever tried?

Post by **sandranian** » Thu Oct 20, 2011 5:10 am

I have purchased a few Gitane bicycles from online retailers in France. You just need to find one who is willing to ship it. Remember to subtract the VAT from the purchase price.

Trident · Post by **Trident** » Thu Oct 20, 2011 9:45 pm

Thanks for the reply. I have a couple of follow-up questions:

1. The reason I am willing to go through the trouble of buying a new Gitane is because I want a real, French-made one. Is it safe to assume that the current models are made there? I don't want one if they are made in China or Taiwan, etc. (I can get those anywhere.)

2. Can you possibly suggest a couple of online retailers that you have had success with? Do they understand the subtraction of VAT for US buyers?

I really appreciate your help.

Post by **sandranian** » Fri Oct 21, 2011 4:21 am

I have posted a bunch of stuff about my buying experiences in this forum. Here is one thread:
http://www.gitaneusa.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=1271

Here is a thread where I discuss the costs:
http://www.gitaneusa.com/forum/viewtopi ... t&start=30

I also purchased some through Jean Pierre Derrier of Derrier Loisirs:
http://www.derrierloisirs.fr/derriermotos/

Regarding the "French" built Gitanes, as far as I know, all of the carbon frames are chinese built...like 99% of the other manufacturers. However, the aluminum bikes are still produced in France, some in Machecoul and some at the Peugeot factory in Romilly Sur Seine. Here are pictures of both:
http://www.gitaneusa.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=1324

I cannot guarantee though that the bike you are interested in is truly made at one of these factories.

2012 Gitane "Definitive" Catalogue

2012 Gitane "Definitive" Catalogue

2012 Gitane Definitive Calatalogue now available!