After a lengthy absence from the UK and other markets around the world, the venerable French cycle manufacturer Peugeot is to return in 2010 with a range of cycles that will celebrate the company’s 200th anniversary.
Peugeot began manufacturing sewing machines and wire for the making of bodices in 1810 and commenced cycle construction in 1882 with a high-wheel cycle called the “Grand Bi”. By 1900 it was building 20,000 machines per year and output peaked in 1955 with 22,000 cycles leaving the Beaulieu factory. In recent years, cycles continued to be made for sale in France alongside Peugeot cars, maintaining an unbroken tradition.
Peugeot was the last cycle maker to sponsor a professional cycle racing team without an outside sponsorship partner, finally forming the Z-Peugeot squad in 1987 as the cost of sponsorship soared.
The new 2010 “Collector‘s” edition comprises four cycles: a road bike, an urban cycle, a mountain bike and a hybrid available in both a men’s and ladies’ version. Peugeot has retained the black and white chequer decoration of the historic Peugeot cycles ridden in the Tour de France and other races on the professional calendar.
Available from spring 2010, the range will precede a significant number of new models to be introduced from September 2010. Peugeot bicycles will be designed, produced and distributed by the Peugeot division of Cycleurope based in Romilly sur Seine, France.
Details of prices, specifications and distribution remain to be finalised but the cycles should be avaialble in the UK through selected independent bicycle dealerships and through the Peugeot car sales network.
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