From the Reride workshop
Motobécane.
French bicycle history with a modern revival.
At ReRide, we love classic bicycles with a history, and few brands have developed in such an interesting way as Motobécane. Motobécane is one of the brands that has left its mark on bicycle history, and although the name may not be as well known as some of the very biggest manufacturers, Motobécane has a rich heritage and a firm place in the cycling world
About the brand
Motobécane – French bicycle history with a modern rebirth
At ReRide, we love classic bicycles with a history, and few brands have developed in such an interesting way as Motobécane. Motobécane is one of the brands that has left its mark on bicycle history, and although the name may not be as well known as some of the very biggest manufacturers, Motobécane has a rich heritage and a firm place in the cycling world
Motobécane was founded in France in 1923 and was for many years one of the leading manufacturers of bicycles, mopeds and motorcycles. The name “Motobécane” is a combination of “moto” (motor) and “bécane” (slang for bicycle), reflecting the brand’s ambition to combine innovation and speed.
Motobécane at Reride
We have no Motobécane bikes for sale right now. Write if you are looking for one — new frames come in regularly.
The craft
Prepared at the workshop in Valby.
Every bicycle is dismantled, inspected and rebuilt. We replace worn parts, adjust gears and brakes and test-ride it before putting it up for sale.
See how we workFrequently asked questions
Motobécane’s origins and development
During the 1960s and 70s, Motobécane became known for its road bicycles, which competed with the best Italian and Belgian brands. The brand became particularly famous when the legendary cyclist Laurent Fignon rode a Motobécane in several major races.
In the 1980s, Motobécane experienced financial difficulties, and the brand was acquired by the Japanese motorcycle giant Yamaha. It then changed its name to MBK, which also produces bicycles today. Although the Motobécane name disappeared from the European market, it continued to exist in the USA, where it is still used by various manufacturers and where the brand has enjoyed a revival. Today, Motobécane bicycles are manufactured in several parts of the world, but they still retain their French heritage and classic design.
The modern Motobécane bicycle
Today, Motobécane is part of the cycling tradition that lives on through MBK, but in some markets Motobécane still exists as an independent brand. Many of the classic road bicycles and city bicycles from the 60s and 70s are still highly sought after, particularly among collectors and enthusiasts who appreciate their frame geometry, lightweight materials and timeless design.
Motobécane has always held a special place in bicycle history, particularly in road bicycles, where its models were known for being light and fast. Today, Motobécane bicycles are still produced, but on a more niche scale, competing with high-end bicycle brands in road bicycles and mountain bikes.
ReRide and Motobécane – Classics get a new life
At ReRide, we have a fondness for Motobécane, and we often have classic French road bicycles in for restoration and conversion. We specialise in restoring and converting classic bicycles so that they retain their original charm while receiving modern upgrades.
A classic Motobécane is part of bicycle history, and we love taking a vintage model, giving it a new life with updated gears, brakes, wheels and whatever else it needs, and ensuring that it can be used for many years to come. Many of these older frames are perfect for single-speed conversions or modern city bikes, where the minimalist, lightweight design comes into its own.
