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The story of Škoda started with a bicycle

130 years ago, two passionate cyclists with a vision created the foundations of the Škoda brand. Let us quickly walk you through their story – and give you a chance to win some unique prizes.

In 1895, Václav Laurin and Václav Klement set out to create a better bicycle, driven by a passion for craftmanship and innovation.

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The same passion later propelled them to motorcycles...

Laurin & Klement Type B 1901
Laurin and Klement first motorbike image

...and eventually to automobiles, where ŠKODA continues to push the boundaries today.

Laurin & Klement Voiturette A 1906
Laurin and Klement first car image

But first, there was a letter.

But first, there was a letter.
Letter
In July 1894, Václav Klement sent his bicycle for repairs. It came back unrepaired and with a rude letter. He decided to start building bicycles himself.
Klement
In September of that year, he met Václav Laurin – a skilled mechanic. They soon went into the bicycle business together.
Laurin and Klement shaking hands
On January 1st, 1896, the Laurin & Klement brand was established.
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They quickly moved from repairing other bicycles to producing their own model. They named it Slavia.
Slavia bicycle badge
SLAVIA
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Bike

It was an excellent machine.

It also offered a lot of accessories, like extra acetylene container for the night light, holders for an umbrella...

...a race number, an air pump and even a sabre or a whip.

That started a tradition of simply clever accessories that lasts to this day.

Soon, they produced five different models, including a sporting one and one designed for women. They even published a maintenance manual for their customers, combined with health tips and equipment advice. 

Laurin and Klement maintenance manual background

By 1897, the factory moved into the building which is even today owned by Škoda Auto. It now houses the museum of Škoda cars.

Laurin and Klement factory image

In 1899, they added an engine to a bicycle and branched into motorcycles. Their machines soon started winning international races. 

Laurin and Klement first motorbike image

In 1905, they built their first automobile. Laurin & Klement quickly became a manufacturing powerhouse. But that is a different story... 

Laurin and Klement first car image