CZ

Year of foundation 1919-1998

The history of the ČZ motorcycle manufacturer (Česká Zbrojovka Strakonice) is fascinating and intertwined with that of Czechoslovakia. Founded as an arms factory, it diversified its production, becoming a major name in the world of two-wheeled vehicles.

**Origin and diversification (1919-1945)**
The company was founded in September 1919 in Strakonice, in what was then Czechoslovakia, under the name Jihočeská zbrojovka (South Bohemian Armoury). It initially focused on the production of firearms. In the 1920s, following the crisis in the arms industry, ČZ began exploring new markets, producing bicycles and, later, motorized bicycles. Full-fledged motorcycle production began in 1932 with the ČZ 76 "Kaktus," a 76 cc model. Before World War II, ČZ established itself with models such as the 150 and 250, becoming a rival to the larger Jawa.

Post-war and Golden Age (1945-1990)
After the war, the company was nationalized by the communist government. During this period, ČZ enjoyed its heyday, especially in motocross. ČZ motorcycles proved exceptionally robust and reliable, dominating the international racing scene. From the mid-1960s, riders aboard ČZ motorcycles won numerous world titles in the 250 and 500 cc classes, helping to raise the brand's profile worldwide, especially in the United States. Its racing models, such as the famous 250 "bitubo," are still considered iconic. In addition to racing motorcycles, ČZ produced utility models that were highly regarded in Eastern European countries for their simplicity and durability.

**The End of Communism and Decline (1990-2000)**
With the fall of the Berlin Wall and the end of Communism, ČZ, like many Eastern European companies, struggled to adapt to the market economy. Competition from Japanese motorcycle manufacturers became unsustainable. Despite attempts to modernize production, sales plummeted. The company was privatized in 1993, but motorcycle production began to decline, finally ceasing in 1998. Today, ČZ Strakonice still exists and primarily produces automotive components and other industrial machinery, but its glorious era in the motorcycle world is a thing of the past.