Hi there!
For the Black & Decker 2300 bread maker using the French Bread cycle, the timing for removing the paddles can be a bit tricky since it's not always explicitly listed in the manual. Typically, the final rise happens after the kneading phase and before the baking begins.
Since you mentioned that for the
Basic Setting - 2lb loaf, you remove the paddles 15 1/2 minutes after starting, you might want to follow a similar approach for the French Bread setting. For most French Bread cycles, the final rise usually occurs towards the end of the second kneading cycle.
In general, you could start checking around 2 hours and 30 minutes into the cycle, but keep an eye on your bread maker’s progress. If you’re uncertain, it’s always a good idea to consult the manual or check the manufacturer's website for more specific details.
Hope this helps, and happy baking!