The frame is made with Columbus Zona tubing. This series with numerous references allowed us to adapt the frame to Philippe's size. The oversized seat tube is compatible with the use of a 31.6mm seat post. To keep the frame from being too floppy, we used a tapered top tube ranging from 35mm to 31.7mm. It offers greater rigidity at the level of the head tube and therefore easier steering.

We placed diabolos on the seatstays necessary for fixing a rear luggage rack. Because Philippe is essentially a cycle tourist, it is possible that he will have to move equipment with him. The versatility of his bike is thus reinforced.

The crankset, its casing and Philippe's chainring are provided by the Californian brand White Industries. The set was chosen in a black anodization to match the finish of the bike.

The callipers mounted on Victoire n°512 are Hope RS4+. This model, made in England, offers more power and modulation than a classic caliper thanks to its four pistons.

The rear derailleur is also a reference from the world of mountain biking: It is a Sram GX Eagle derailleur. In order to be able to combine cassette, MTB derailleur and levers for so-called "drop-bar" handlebars, we used a Ratio kit, an English brand whose products allow this compatibility after a simple operation inside the levers.

Tested for more than a year on bikes like Julien's Victoire n°491, this solution is entirely satisfactory and means that you don't have to invest in the American manufacturer's expensive electronic systems to take advantage of its mountain bike cassettes with their impressive teeth.

Philippe's wheels were hand-spoked in our workshop with DT Swiss 350 hubs and Mavic Open Pro Disc UST rims. They are equipped with Teravail Rampart tires in 38, a comfortable and necessary section to face the Ardèche routes.

An azure blue has been affixed to the upper part of the bike, while lower down, an anthracite gray tending towards blue incorporates the components of Philippe's transmission. The entire finish was then clear-coated and then polished by hand.

« After the decision-making comes this very important day, in a friendly atmosphere, during which everything is discussed: the project, the desires, the specifications, the choice of materials, components... Accompanied by Julien, who realizes not only a thorough static and dynamic postural study to determine an optimal geometry, but also to guide and advise you according to what you want to do with your future Victoire.

Finally comes the time for the 1st outing! It should be noted that I live in the North of Gard, on the edge of the Cévennes, where the roads are small and bumpy, all in turns and steep slopes. From the very first kilometres, I realize that I am perfectly poised, an immediate impression of comfort, a feeling of having always ridden on this well-adjusted bike. The first Cévennes climbs arrive... Helped by the choice of a single chainring and a large cassette, the pedaling rate is easily maintained, but the surprise is this impression of being helped by the bike uphill, this must be this famous springback specific to steel... Downhill, once again, this feeling of stability is very reassuring, the bike places itself well in the trajectory where the eye is looking, and does not deviate, the grip angle is also facilitated by the 38 mm tires. Flat or downhill, the filtration is perfect, and when I reach the fateful 50 km, I don't have pain in my back or my wrists, what a joy! So I extend my initially planned loop, and 120 kms later, I'm back, a big smile on my face... I get off my bike, I look at him, he looks at me, we smile at each other and we understand that it's for life ! »