História mopedu Babetta

Moped Babetta je legendárny stroj, ktorý sa vyrábal v bývalom Československu od 70. rokov 20. storočia. Jeho výroba začala v roku 1970 v podniku Považské strojárne v Považskej Bystrici, kde sa vyrábali aj iné ikonické motocykle a mopedy.

Babetta bola navrhnutá ako lacný, jednoduchý a efektívny dopravný prostriedok pre širokú verejnosť, pričom cieľom bolo uľahčiť dochádzanie na kratšie vzdialenosti. Moped bol vybavený 50 cm³ dvojtaktným motorom, ktorý bol dostatočne silný na zvládnutie mestských i vidieckych ciest. Vynikal aj nízkou spotrebou paliva, čo z neho robilo ekonomickú voľbu pre mnoho používateľov.

Modely Babetty prešli niekoľkými inováciami počas svojej výroby. Prvé modely, ako Babetta 207 a neskôr Babetta 210, sa stali populárnymi nielen v Československu, ale aj v zahraničí, kde sa vyvážali do rôznych krajín. Vďaka svojmu spoľahlivému motoru a jednoduchému dizajnu si Babetta získala priaznivcov po celom svete.

Výroba Babetty pokračovala až do 90. rokov, keď zmeny na trhu a konkurencia zo zahraničia spôsobili, že výroba bola ukončená. Napriek tomu Babetta zostáva v povedomí mnohých motorkárov a zberateľov ako nostalgický symbol minulosti. Tento moped stále vyvoláva pozitívne spomienky a mnohí ho považujú za jednu z ikon československého motorizmu.

Babetta 228 (1970 – 1973)

The Babetta or Jawa Babetta was a series of mopeds built in Czechoslovakia and commonly marketed under the Jawa name in other countries. It had a 50cc two-stroke engine, a 1-speed or a 2-speed automatic transmission and reached 25–50 km/h (15–30 mph) depending on the model and year. They were produced in Považská Bystrica and later in Kolárovo, Rajec and Veľký Meder in Slovakia.

Originally the Babetta was conceived as a lightweight moped to compete with the VéloSoleX (Solex) moped which was popular during the 1960s. The first Babetta mopeds type 28 (later called the type 228) to see the light of day featured large 19-inch wheels, but these would be swapped out in favour of smaller 16-inch wheels in future models. The model 28 was mass-produced from 1971 until 1973 with an initial batch of 100 units in 1970. The Babetta was notable for its electronic ignition – the first time a transistorized contactless ignition had been used in a moped.

Babetta 207 (1973 – 1983)

The type 206 was a modified version of the type 28, featuring smaller 16-inch wheels. It was produced during the years 1971 to 1972, specifically tailored for the German market. One of the key differences from its predecessor was the reduction in engine power, which was brought down to 1 kW. Additionally, the top speed of the type 206 was limited to just 25 km/h. This lower speed and power output meant that, at the time, there was no need for a driver’s license to operate this particular model of the Babetta. This made it an accessible option for many people who wanted a simple, low-speed vehicle for short-distance travel without the hassle of obtaining a driving permit.

In 1972, a new model known as the Babetta 207 was introduced. The type 207 maintained much of the same design elements as the type 206 but with a few notable changes. Some versions of the Babetta 207 were equipped with a more powerful engine, offering a slight boost in performance. Despite this upgrade, the overall structure and aesthetic of the vehicle remained largely similar to its predecessor. However, in 1975, the Babetta 207 underwent a significant update that included a redesigned tail with a rear suspension system. This enhancement, along with a number of other minor tweaks, improved the comfort and handling of the moped, making it a more attractive choice for riders seeking a more refined and reliable mode of transportation.

Babetta 210 (1983 – 1999)

In 1983, the original models of the Babetta mopeds, which had been popular for many years, were replaced by a new model, known as the Babetta 210. This new model represented a significant evolution in the design and functionality of the moped. It was equipped with a new engine that provided improved performance and efficiency compared to the earlier models. One of the key features of the Babetta 210 was its 2-speed transmission, which was introduced to offer riders a more versatile and dynamic riding experience. This new transmission system was designed to make it easier to navigate various terrains and conditions, providing a smoother and more adaptable ride.

However, the 2-speed transmission on the Babetta 210 quickly proved to be problematic. Many users found that it was not as reliable as they had hoped, leading to frequent mechanical issues and breakdowns. As a result of these reliability concerns, the company decided to switch from the 2-speed transmission to a simpler 1-speed transmission. This change was made in an effort to enhance the overall dependability of the moped and to reduce the likelihood of mechanical failures. Despite this setback, the Babetta 210 remained a popular choice among moped enthusiasts, and several models based on the 210 platform were developed over the years. Some of these variants were produced all the way up until 1997, demonstrating the enduring appeal of the Babetta brand.

By 1999, however, the production of all Babetta models came to an end. Changes in the market and the rise of new competitors led to the discontinuation of these iconic mopeds. Although the original company ceased operations, the story of Babetta did not end there. On the remains of the company in Kolárovo, a new enterprise called Sting 2000 s.r.o. was established. This new company took over all the production documentation and technical specifications for the Babetta mopeds, ensuring that the knowledge and heritage of the brand would be preserved. Sting 2000 s.r.o. continues to produce spare parts for Babetta mopeds, catering to the needs of owners and collectors who still cherish these classic vehicles. By maintaining the availability of spare parts, Sting 2000 s.r.o. plays an essential role in keeping the Babetta legacy alive and supporting the community of enthusiasts who appreciate the unique history and charm of these vintage mopeds.

"Babeta šla do světa a vrátí se zpět
možná za sedm možná za osm nebo za padesát let."

JIŘÍ SUCHÝúryvok z piesne Babetta

Babetta 2.0 (2020 - today)

We started building the new Babetta brand at the same time as our Bikere store, where we sell premium e-bikes, bicycles, and cycling accessories. From the beginning, we wanted not only to sell e-bikes but also to manufacture them. At that time, alongside running our own company, we were still employed as financial directors in an international engineering firm. We thought that manufacturing e-bikes wouldn’t be a problem.

„I was fascinated by the quick ride on an e-bike in city traffic, but regular e-bikes can’t do that because they are limited to only 25 km/h. So, I started exploring a new segment of electric mopeds that operate on the principle of an e-bike but have higher power and a motor limit of up to 45 km/h,“ he recalls.

In March 2017—when few people in Slovakia knew how an e-bike worked—we started dealing with vehicle registration numbers for small motorcycles and other necessary legislative matters. And that’s when we stumbled upon Babetta. „As a young manager, I thought it would be great to buy an old, non-functioning factory. So, I started finding out what was going on with Babetta and decided to bring it back to life,“ he reveals.

From Idea to Product

From the initial idea to realization, the development of the new electric Babetta took more than five years. According to Slebodník, it could have been done sooner, but the market did not require it. People from Bikere were involved in the development, but they could only devote time to it after earning money from selling bicycles.

The analysis of the market, competition, available technologies, and manufacturing possibilities took more time. The development could only begin once we had a complete list of components we wanted to use and knew exactly what the outcome should be. In collaboration with designer Vlado Hučko, we prepared the geometry and complete dimensions. „Based on this, Vlado made the first functional prototype from steel, which was used to test the geometry and riding characteristics. It was only based on this geometry that we, together with designers Slavo Ozaník and Patrik Paul, could create the first design sketches. From them, I chose the final one for preparing the design 3D model in the summer of 2020.“

On the day he was supposed to definitively confirm the design for the already approved geometry and start further extensive work, he announced to everyone that the geometry was not correct. It needed to be redesigned in the most complex part—the rear suspension. The development was thus set back by a year. „We knew that the final product would be several hundred more expensive, but today we are all happy with this change. We can proudly say that our Babetta is a top product. In many ways, it sets trends and surpasses the competition,“ Slebodník states proudly.

Only then could we return to design and modeling. The first plastic 3D printout fitted with components was created, which went for technical preparation for production to Peter Dedeček. This required many minor adjustments and solutions due to technical and manufacturing requirements and product functionality. During development, the components of our suppliers were also evolving, so we had to make many changes and adjustments in the process.

Babetta 2.0 (2020 - today)

We started building the new Babetta brand at the same time as our Bikere store, where we sell premium e-bikes, bicycles, and cycling accessories. From the beginning, we wanted not only to sell e-bikes but also to manufacture them. At that time, alongside running our own company, we were still employed as financial directors in an international engineering firm. We thought that manufacturing e-bikes wouldn’t be a problem.

„I was fascinated by the quick ride on an e-bike in city traffic, but regular e-bikes can’t do that because they are limited to only 25 km/h. So, I started exploring a new segment of electric mopeds that operate on the principle of an e-bike but have higher power and a motor limit of up to 45 km/h,“ he recalls.

In March 2017—when few people in Slovakia knew how an e-bike worked—we started dealing with vehicle registration numbers for small motorcycles and other necessary legislative matters. And that’s when we stumbled upon Babetta. „As a young manager, I thought it would be great to buy an old, non-functioning factory. So, I started finding out what was going on with Babetta and decided to bring it back to life,“ he reveals.

From Idea to Product

From the initial idea to realization, the development of the new electric Babetta took more than five years. According to Slebodník, it could have been done sooner, but the market did not require it. People from Bikere were involved in the development, but they could only devote time to it after earning money from selling bicycles.

The analysis of the market, competition, available technologies, and manufacturing possibilities took more time. The development could only begin once we had a complete list of components we wanted to use and knew exactly what the outcome should be. In collaboration with designer Vlado Hučko, we prepared the geometry and complete dimensions. „Based on this, Vlado made the first functional prototype from steel, which was used to test the geometry and riding characteristics. It was only based on this geometry that we, together with designers Slavo Ozaník and Patrik Paul, could create the first design sketches. From them, I chose the final one for preparing the design 3D model in the summer of 2020.“

On the day he was supposed to definitively confirm the design for the already approved geometry and start further extensive work, he announced to everyone that the geometry was not correct. It needed to be redesigned in the most complex part—the rear suspension. The development was thus set back by a year. „We knew that the final product would be several hundred more expensive, but today we are all happy with this change. We can proudly say that our Babetta is a top product. In many ways, it sets trends and surpasses the competition,“ Slebodník states proudly.

Only then could we return to design and modeling. The first plastic 3D printout fitted with components was created, which went for technical preparation for production to Peter Dedeček. This required many minor adjustments and solutions due to technical and manufacturing requirements and product functionality. During development, the components of our suppliers were also evolving, so we had to make many changes and adjustments in the process.

Race Against Time Before Oslo

When the company confirmed the deadline for unveiling the final product at the exhibition in Oslo, we only had three months, and the product was still not finished. „That’s when I started really pushing the project and the people. We worked seven days a week, and everyone was incredibly willing, determined, and dedicated. They had no problem picking up the phone in the middle of the night or during Sunday lunch. I greatly appreciate them for standing by me,“ he adds.

In the last few months of development, we did a lot of work. We focused on redesigning the Babetta logo, which was designed by Matej Belica, and creating a new website with an e-shop. The approaching exhibition forced us to also design a 3D animation of the product and especially start manufacturing carbon frames.

The last weeks before the exhibition were a race against time. At the auto paint shop, they had to mix five final shades for the finishes. Tomáš was sleeping in his car in front of the paint shop. The carbon frame was still not ready. It was finished only a week before the exhibition. But then came an unpleasant surprise. The carbon frame had a manufacturing defect that extended the painting process by two days, and there wasn’t time to make a new piece. „It was clear that we wouldn’t make it in time for the truck with the load to the Slovak pavilion, and we would have to transport Babetta to Norway ourselves. Fortunately, constructor Vlado Hučko and his wife agreed to take on this task,“ Slebodník clarifies.

Feedback from entering the exhibition site was immediate. „Babetta was a great success at the exhibition. Later, it was also well-received on social media and in Bikere, where people could see it in person. I really didn’t expect such a great recognition, so much praise, and so many congratulations. I am very happy about it,“ Slebodník reacts.

Meeting the Creators

Over the years of development, Tomáš experienced various moments, but the strongest came when he met the original creators of Babetta, Jindřich Šafařík and Zdeno Metzker, from whom he received their blessing.

He didn’t know how they would react. He was worried they might be offended that he dared to touch their iconic work. „I met Zdeno Metzker, the designer of the original Babetta, earlier at the signing of his book. But at that time, I didn’t have the courage to tell him what we were working on. We quietly and secretly kept grinding away. I only gathered the courage after the official unveiling in Oslo. His reactions over the phone were very positive. A weight was lifted off my shoulders. The question still remained what the creator of the name and design of Babetta, Jindřich Šafařík, would say about our Babetta. Once, we waited for him in front of his house with Babetta. He came to it and said, ‘Beautiful finish.’ He was full of praise, humor, gratitude, humility, professional opinions, and memories of the limited technology and resources they had at that time. It was clear we had passed the toughest certification, and we could go for a beer together,“ he laughs.

After presenting the product, the company’s vision is to be a leader in the development and production of urban micromobility, especially with speed pedelec e-bikes and medium to high-end electric mopeds. We want to set trends in urban mobility and the sharing of small vehicles. By combining development professionals with automated production, we aim to ensure the sustainable competitiveness of our products and export them throughout Europe and the world.

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