Terrot Dijon Randonneur Bicycle 1950s

Terrot was a company which was founded in the 1880s in Dijon by Franco-German entrepreneur Charles Terrot of Stuttgart. They soon began a successful production of bicycles, motorbikes and automobiles. In fact the company became so successful that it for some time was the largest employer in Dijon. After the first world war, the production in France was seized by the French government and sold.

Starting anew in 1920, the bicycles became even more sportive and from the 1930s on Terrot produced excellent randonneur bicycles and racing machines. They even started to sponsor their own team which existed well into the 1950s. Among the riders were famous names the like of Jean Robic, Louis Aimar or Federico Bahamontes.

But besides the professional racing, the randonneur sport was always at the heart of French cycling. And at the same time when the Terrot team was victorious at Gent-Wevelgem, Liège-Bastogne-Liège or the Dauphiné, the know-how collected from the racing world was used to provide highly functional and fast touring bikes.

Unfortunately in 1958 the Terrot company was washed up in the competition of the 1950s and had to close its production which was then bought up by Peugeot.

So our 1950s Terrot Randonneur is a testament of a bygone era and a once famous brand that is nowadays just known to experts. What is nice is that it is still in original condition, so basically all the parts are period correct (aside from tires, grips, cables and chain).

The frame itself shows a classy beige hue with the pin-striping being still well visible. Simplex shifting, mudguards, lights, leather saddle, rack - it is all still there and forms a complete and excellent randonneur of the 1950s.

If you are looking for a bike which is both practical and extremely stylish, you won't have to look further than this beauty.