In a nod to its 130-year design heritage, Škoda has unveiled a striking new concept motorcycle inspired by the 1899 Slavia B, one of the most significant vehicles in the company’s history. The concept represents the first application of Škoda’s Modern Solid design language to a two-wheeler and marks the beginning of a series of reimagined classics from the brand’s archives.
The Slavia B motorcycle was originally produced under the Laurin & Klement brand, which later evolved into Škoda Auto. This new interpretation maintains the signature frame silhouette of the original while adapting it for the electric age, with the Škoda logo appearing to float within an open frame where the combustion engine once sat.
“I wanted to go back to the brand’s roots,” explains French designer Romain Bucaille, who typically works on Škoda car exteriors. “As someone who also loves motorcycles, this was a refreshing change and a great creative challenge.”
The concept features several thoughtful details connecting past and present. The front geometry references founder Václav Laurin’s pioneering work in motorcycle design, while a minimal floating seat and integrated leather tool bag pay homage to factory rider Narcis Podsedníček, who completed the 1901 Paris-Berlin race on a Slavia B.
Bucaille describes the result as a “futuristic café racer in Modern Solid style,” incorporating the clean contours, crisp edges, and distinctive lighting that characterize Škoda’s evolving design identity.
The design process began traditionally with pencil sketches. “The great thing about sketching on paper is that it’s instant. No need for a screen – just ideas flowing freely,” Bucaille says. These initial concepts eventually developed into digital renders before the final design was completed.
While not slated for production, this reinterpretation serves as a powerful statement about Škoda’s direction. The Modern Solid design language emphasizes minimalism and strength through bold shapes, clean lines, and functional forms, reflecting the brand’s shift toward electric mobility, sustainability, and digitalization.
The motorcycle concept is the first in a planned series of reimagined classics, with previous concepts having included modern takes on the 200 RS, 1203 van, and Voiturette.
