Discover Skoda's innovative electric concept bike inspired by the 1899 Slavia B motorcycle, blending heritage and modern design in a futuristic café racer style.
Skoda Slavia B Concept Brings Back a European Bike From More Than a Century Ago
The Czech automaker Skoda has unveiled a concept bike inspired by its very first vehicle, the Slavia B motorcycle, which dates back to the late 19th century.
A Look Back at the Original Slavia B Motorcycle
Like many well-known car manufacturers today, Skoda began its industrial journey by producing bicycles and motorcycles. This was during the late 1800s when the company was known as Laurin & Klement. The Slavia motorcycle, launched in 1899, marked its entry into the public eye.
Offered in two versions, A and B, the motorcycle featured a 240cc air-cooled single-cylinder engine delivering a modest 1.75 horsepower. Unlike modern bikes with transmissions, the Slavia's engine powered the rear wheel directly via a flat belt.
Equipped with pedals that served both as auxiliary propulsion and to start the engine, it achieved a top speed of 25 mph (40 kph). While modest by today’s standards, these specs were impressive and inspiring during that era.
The Concept Bike: A Modern Twist on the Original
Skoda pays homage to the original Slavia B with a distinct café racer-style concept bike. Designed by Skoda’s exterior design expert, French designer Romain Bucaille, this concept reimagines the classic Slavia with a contemporary flair.
The concept retains the iconic frame silhouette of the original, but features an empty space in the center where a traditional engine would reside—reflecting its electric propulsion. Complementing this is a floating rear seat and an integrated leather tool bag built into the frame, blending vintage charm with modern design.
While specific details about the electric drivetrain remain undisclosed, as is common with concept vehicles, the focus lies more on aesthetic innovation than production plans. This futuristic café racer embraces a Modern Solid style but is not intended for mass production.
This concept motorcycle represents the first in a series of upcoming Skoda designs, each inspired by the brand’s most iconic vehicles and reimagined for the 21st century.