La Francaise - Rider on Yellow Ground

First place in the 1898 Bordeaux-Paris bicycle race went to Gaston Rivere on a La Francaise Cycle. The 350 mile race began in 1891 and was run annually until 1988. Although the date is not printed on this poster, we think it was likely printed this year for this event based on photos of Rivere and the years he was the first place winner of the race. He coasts into Paris, with the Arc de Triomphe in the background cheered by onlookers for as long as the eye can see. Guidon handlebars and Persan tires are also featured in this poster, signaling a likely alliance between the three companies.

La Francaise was a bicycle, motorbike, and auto company formed in 1890 by Victor Besse and Francois Tripier. The company sponsored its own professional cycling team, also called 'La Francaise'. Cyclists on the team would win in various Tour de France races over the years, until the teams demise in 1955.

This is an Original Vintage Poster; it is not a reproduction. This poster is linen backed and in excellent condition. We guarantee the authenticity of all our posters.