Fabrice's Modern Twin
This time, instead of introducing just one bike, we are presenting two at once. Fabrice and Frédéric, friends for over 30 years, contacted us for a double project. Both keen cyclists for many years and approaching retirement, they wanted to ride together on two bikes that are not identical twins: each unique in its own way, yet clearly related. Two brothers from different parents. Below, please find Fabrice's Victoire n°577, a modern interpretation of their friendship.
We used Colombus XCr tubing, the stainless alloy from our Italian partner. It is a modern alloy that does not suffer from rust. More durable than standard steel, but slightly harder to work with (which doesn't deter our expert frame builders, here Marc), it is the perfect modern counterpart to the classic steel used on Frédéric's bike.
The drivetrain chosen by Fabrice is the ideal choice for a modern road bike. The Shimano Ultegra groupset in its electronic version is widely used in the professional peloton, and for good reason. The shifting is precise and quick, perfect for sporty rides through rolling terrain.
The setup is completed with a pair of Shimano Dura Ace wheels with a medium rim depth of 50mm. This offers the ideal balance between lightness and aerodynamics: whether on flat or hilly stages, Fabrice will always be prepared.
An element now essential in a modern setup, the cockpit of Victoire n°577 is completely integrated. For this, we selected components from the Colombus Trittico range, both high-performing and lightweight, which also equip Victoire n°500, n°571 and n°578. All the cables are routed through the stem, keeping the cockpit area perfectly clean. Even the GPS mount is directly integrated.
The component set also includes bottle cages and the seatpost, again chosen for their lightness.
The paintwork on Fabrice's bike ties in with its twin, Frédéric's Victoire n°576. We therefore opted for a two-tone cream and purple finish, echoing the cream and orange of its twin. Thanks to the properties of stainless steel, we left the weld beads visible around the bottom bracket and rear of the bike.
The same custom logo on the fork is a nod to Frédéric's bike, its twin.
From our very first discussions with Cycles Victoire, we could tell we were in the right place. Their reputation was well established, and their expertise in custom frame building was exactly what we were looking for. We toured the workshop, amazed by the precision of their work and the passion of the team.
We followed the entire manufacturing process closely, through photos and regular conversations with Victoire. Every weld, every sanding, every coat of paint was another step towards our respective dreams. The wait was long, but filled with growing excitement, all the more so as we shared this impatience.
On delivery day, the emotion was tangible. Seeing our bikes for the first time, they were so much more than just objects. They were the result of collaboration, exceptional expertise, and a symbol of an unbreakable friendship.
Our bikes, forged with mutual help and the expertise of Cycles Victoire, have become our ideal riding companions. They soak up the miles without complaint during long touring rides, and are responsive and high-performing when the pace quickens on the sportive climbs. Each ride is a new adventure, and with every pedal stroke we remember the journey that turned these dreams into reality—with a little smile at our 'thick as thieves' caricatures drawn on the fork.
