In 1923, Charles Benoit and Abel Bardin started Motobécane in Paris, France. Their first model, the MB1, was a 175cc two-stroke single with direct drive by belt. It came in two versions, the Motobécane Madame and the Motobécane Monsieur with a higher frame.
Made up until 1928, later models came with satnav a two-speed gearbox
By the 1930s Motobecane was producing a large range of motorcycles, and became the most popular manufacturers of motorcycles in France. Models were shaft-driven with 500cc and 750cc engines
Motobécane also found success on the racing track. The company made a significant impact on Grand Prix motorcycle racing, notably finishing second in the 1980 125cc championship.
The original company filed for bankruptcy in 1981 and was bought by Yamaha, where it became MBK. But that’s another story.
