Prague, November 16, 2025 – The Europe Today: A remarkable collection of three dozen vintage Čechie–Böhmerland motorcycles—often described as the longest motorcycles ever built—is now on display at the National Technical Museum (NTM) in Prague. The exhibition commemorates the 100th anniversary of the production of these iconic machines.
Produced in the Šluknov region of northern Bohemia from the mid-1920s until the start of the Second World War, the motorcycles are celebrated for their distinctive colours, unconventional construction, and unmistakable thumping sound. The show includes preserved originals, reconstructed replicas of lost prototypes, and several models sourced from international collections.
Museum curator Arnošt Nezmeškal noted that all types ever produced are represented in the exhibition.
“We have the short touring model, measuring 2.20 metres—slightly longer than a standard motorcycle. Then there is the travel model with a 2.5-metre frame, and the extraordinary 3.20-metre version, which is likely the longest motorcycle in the world.”
The Čechie–Böhmerland was the brainchild of visionary designer Albin Hugo Liebisch, who began its production in 1925.
“He aimed to build a reliable mode of transport and produced only around 750 motorcycles over 15 years,” Nezmeškal said. “That means he found at least 750 enthusiasts willing to appreciate its unusual design and unique colouring.”
Many versions of the motorcycle were powered by a long-stroke 600cc single-cylinder engine, delivering around 18 horsepower, known for its deep, characteristic sound.
“These pre-war engines are like brewery horses compared to today’s racehorses,” Nezmeškal remarked. “They pull strongly even at very low revs.”
Among the highlights of the exhibition are the rare two-cylinder 700cc Sudet model, precise replicas of the four-seater Čechie–Böhmerland—officially the longest motorcycle in the world—and a long-frame touring model once owned by brand devotee Karel Horký. His personal story adds charm to the display: upon learning of a rare gearbox for sale, Horký famously exchanged his family car for a cheaper vehicle on the spot, using the difference to secure the precious component.
The exhibition runs until March 22 and also documents the company’s decline, Liebisch’s post-war expulsion to Germany, and his unsuccessful efforts to revive production in Bavaria. Today, the brand’s legacy is kept alive by the Čechie–Böhmerland Club, which preserves its history and hosts annual gatherings of surviving motorcycles.
