Hirondelle retro-direct, c. 1920

Manufrance Hirondelle retro-direct, nice early model with round fork top, the beautiful quality nickel plated extensible pedals, cranks, large chainrings front and back. The important parts are all there, the retro-direct mechanism is fully functional, but the bike will need completing : brakes, saddle, handlebars, rims. The aluminium MF (manufrance) stamped chainguard is a beautiful detail, probably retro-fitted (right crank is slightly bent to fit around it). Overpainted green, there are good traces of original paint underneath : green with red lining. Very fine restoration project.