Bike to the Future: Škoda Reimagines Iconic Slavia B Motorcycle for the Modern Solid Era
SME News Europe.In a bold move that bridges heritage with innovation, Škoda Auto has unveiled its most daring concept yet — a futuristic reinterpretation of the legendary Slavia B motorcycle, the two-wheeler that helped establish the brand’s legacy over a century ago.
The concept is the first to showcase Škoda’s Modern Solid design language, a fresh and forward-thinking aesthetic combining minimalist forms, strong geometries, and high functionality. It signals the brand’s evolving identity in a world shifting rapidly toward electric mobility, digitalisation, and sustainable design.
A Tribute to the Past, Built for the Future
Originally built in 1899 under the Laurin & Klement (L&K) brand — the company that would later become Škoda — the Slavia B was revolutionary in its time. Today, its modern descendant pays tribute not only through silhouette and spirit, but through design that speaks to both nostalgia and tomorrow.
The new concept motorcycle retains the signature frame outline of the Slavia B but strips it down for the electric age. The combustion engine compartment is now an open void — a visual space where the Škoda logo appears to float, suspended in a clean, sculptural form. A single vertical line dramatically splits the body, embodying the balance between past and future.
Design by Romain Bucaille: A Vision in Motion
Spearheaded by French designer Romain Bucaille, typically known for Škoda’s car exteriors, the concept is described as a “futuristic café racer” rendered in the Modern Solid style.
“I wanted to go back to the brand’s roots,” says Bucaille. “As someone who also loves motorcycles, this was a refreshing change and a great creative challenge.”
The design draws from historical details: from Václav Laurin’s pioneering work in motorcycle handling geometry, to a sleek, floating leather seat and integrated tool bag that nods to the racing heritage of Narcis Podsedníček, the rider who famously finished the 1901 Paris–Berlin race on a Slavia B.
From Paper to Pixels: A Modern Creative Journey
True to form, the process began with pencil sketches — a rare analog approach in today’s digital design world.
“Sketching by hand was immediate and intuitive,” Bucaille notes. “It allowed ideas to flow naturally before we moved into digital renders.”
Three distinct digital versions followed, each exploring different aspects of form and function. The final concept blends crisp edges, clean volumes, and a distinctive lighting signature, hallmark features of Škoda’s new design language.
More Than a Concept: A Statement of Intent
While this reimagined Slavia B will not enter production, its message is clear: Škoda’s future is electrified, visionary, and deeply rooted in its history.
As part of a wider series of classic reinterpretations, the concept paves the way for more bold designs to come — each one a reminder that innovation doesn’t have to abandon tradition.
