French designer reimagines one of the brand’s first motorcycles in a futuristic electric version
Škoda is widely recognized for its modern automobiles, but its past is even more fascinating — especially when remembering that the Czech manufacturer has over 130 years of history. Founded in 1895, it didn’t start with cars but with bicycles.
It all began with two enthusiasts who, in addition to sharing the name Václav, shared a passion for two wheels. Václav Laurin and Václav Klement joined forces after Klement had a bad experience with a poorly built bicycle. Looking for a solution, he found Laurin, an experienced mechanic — and the meeting eventually led to the creation of a new company: Laurin & Klement.
They quickly began producing bicycles, and shortly thereafter, motorcycles. Among the first models were the Slavia A and Slavia B, launched in 1899. The Slavia B, for example, had a 240 cm³ single-cylinder engine producing about 1.75 hp, and could reach speeds of 40 km/h. Equipped with pedals, it could even be classified as a motorized bicycle. Around 540 units were produced between 1899 and 1904.
More than a century later, French designer Romain Bucaille proposed a bold reimagining of the Slavia B. The result is the Slavia B Concept 2025, an electric bike with a futuristic design that preserves the spirit of the original model. Elements like the brown leather seat and small side bag, as well as the elegant Laurin & Klement emblem floating on the front, directly evoke the brand’s classic heritage.
The structure of the new concept follows the shape of the original bike but with more robust and contemporary lines. The green color, traditional in Škoda’s visual identity, reinforces the link between past and present — a bridge between the two-wheeled origins and the future of electric mobility.
Source and images: RideApart. This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team.
