Böhmerland 1936 602cc 1 cyl ohv

The Böhmerland 1936 602cc OHV is a truly unique motorcycle, born from the creative vision of Albin Hugo Liebisch. This particular model, known as the Touring Model, stands out with its bold and unconventional design, embodying the remarkable ingenuity that defined Liebisch’s work. The Böhmerland motorcycles, also referred to as Čechie-Böhmerland for the German market, were produced between 1924 and 1939 in what is now the Czech Republic.

Liebisch, who was born in 1888 in the Bohemian town of Rumburk, was driven by his mechanical aptitude and experience in repairing damaged motorcycles. His early career led him to open an engineering and repair workshop in Krásná Lípa, where he often encountered broken frames and bent forks in the motorcycles he repaired. Inspired by these issues, he decided to create his own motorcycle design—one that would be durable, sturdy, and offer exceptional suspension.

The first Čechie-Böhmerland model was introduced in 1924, and by 1936, Liebisch’s innovative designs had evolved into this 602cc single-cylinder OHV masterpiece. With a bore and stroke of 79.95 x 120mm, the engine delivered 16 HP at 4000 RPM, making it powerful for its time. It featured cast aluminum disc wheels, a leading-link front suspension, and Liebisch’s iconic torpedo-shaped petrol tanks mounted on either side of the rear wheel—a striking and functional design element.

Though production was limited—averaging just over 40 motorcycles per year—Liebisch’s creations attracted a loyal following, despite their unconventional appearance. This particular Böhmerland 1936 model is a testament to his mechanical genius, with its Sturmey Archer three-speed gearbox and distinctive color schemes, typically featuring bold yellow-red or yellow-green combinations.

What further sets the Böhmerland apart is its long wheelbase, making it one of the longest motorcycles ever produced, and its impressive durability. Today, few Böhmerlands remain, making them highly sought after by collectors. This motorcycle is not only a symbol of a bygone era but also a remarkable piece of engineering history, preserved through restorations and enthusiast devotion.

For those fascinated by this unique brand, the book Motocycly Čechie-Böhmerland offers a wealth of information, chronicling the history and legacy of Liebisch’s work in Czech, German, and English. The Böhmerland 1936 remains a shining example of Liebisch’s vision and ingenuity, a rare and cherished motorcycle that stands out in the annals of vintage motorcycle design.