Skoda Slavia B Electric : Today, while Skoda is known as a luxury car brand, very few people know that this company once used to make motorcycles as well. In 1899, a company named Laurin & Klement first introduced a petrol motorcycle named Slavia B. Later this company became a part of Skoda and started manufacturing cars. Now Skoda has introduced a new electric bike concept, which pays tribute to those old days – its name is Slavia B Electric Concept.
How is this new electric model?
This bike has been designed in a cafe racer style. Its special feature is that its frame is reminiscent of the old Slavia B, but it has been given a completely futuristic touch. It has a brown leather seat, tool bag and handle grips, which give an old-fashioned feeling.
The engine space has been kept empty this time and the logo of Laurin & Klement is seen floating in the air, which gives a different look to the bike. The design of the seat is also similar, as if it is separate from the frame and in the air.
Other features of the bike
This concept bike also has many modern things – like inverted front forks, large alloy wheels with flat spokes, slick tires and low-set handlebars. It has a glowing SKODA logo on the front and sharp looking LED headlight and DRLs.
Although this bike looks rideable, its riding position is too forward-leaning, which will not be comfortable for everyday riding.
Will this bike come to the market?
At present, this bike has been made only as a concept and there is no intention to bring it into production. It has been designed by French designer Romain Bucaille. First its sketch was made by hand and later it was finalized with the help of digital tools.
Through this project, Skoda has also showcased their new 3D design technology that they usually use for their cars.
A glimpse of the original Slavia B from 1899
The very first Slavia B bike was equipped with a 240cc single-cylinder engine that produced only 1.75 horsepower and had a top speed of 40 km/h. It did not have a gearbox and power was transmitted to the rear wheel via a belt. The bike also had pedals that were used to start the engine and run it when needed.
Only 540 bikes were made between 1899 and 1904.
Conclusion
This new electric concept bike from Skoda is just a show-off model that has been made to pay tribute to the history of the company. It is a great example of how an old heritage can be combined with today’s technology.
