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Monark
Monark
from Wikipedia

Monark, also known as Cykelfabriken Monark AB and Monark AB, is a Swedish bicycle, moped and motorcycle manufacturer, established in Varberg, Sweden, in 1908 by the industrialist Birger Svensson.[1][2][3][4][5] As of 2016, Monark was valued at 11.5 billion kr.

Key Information

Company history

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In 1920, Monark produced its Esse model, which employed a British 172cc Villiers two stroke engine in a heavy bicycle frame.[1] They gained popularity in Scandinavian countries because machines of this type were not required to be licensed, taxed or insured.[1] In 1928, Monark hired Robert Ebe-Karlsson away from the Amal Carburettor Company to design a range of motorcycles using engines provided by the Blackburne motorcycle company.[1] During this period, the Monark factory entered riders into enduro off-road events.[1]

In the wake of the economic depression during the 1930s, Monark stopped producing motorcycles in 1936 to concentrate on a 98cc motorbike.[1] During the Second World War, Monark produced a military motorcycle for the Swedish army, using a reliable single cylinder engine.[1][6] After the war, Monark resumed production of the 98cc motorbike which remained in production until 1950.[1]

In the 1950s, Monark had a successful record in off-road motorcycle competitions.[1] In 1954 they entered 8 bikes in the International Six Days Trial, a form of off-road motorcycle Olympics.[1][6] All 8 Monark riders finished with gold medals.[1] In 1959, Monark's Sten Lundin won the 500cc Motocross World Championship.[6][7][8][9] When the Monark racing team manager Lennart Varborn unexpectedly died during the 1960 season, Monark management made the decision to withdraw from Grand Prix racing. As compensation, Monark management allowed Lundin keep his race bike. Lundin rebadged his Monark motorcycle as a Lito and recaptured the world championship in 1961.[10] He dropped to third place in the world championship in 1962, finished second to Rolf Tibblin in the 1963 World Championship and third in the 1964 World Championship.[10][11][12][13]

In 1961, Monark merged with Nymanbolagen, Uppsala, Sweden into Monark-Crescentbolagen or MCB.[7] Monark is today part of Cycleurope, belonging to Grimaldi Industri AB. Monark is also a brand of Brazilian bicycles, related to the original Swedish Monark AB.[14]

Bicycle racer, Gösta Pettersson won the 1971 Giro d'Italia riding a Monark bicycle.[5]

The Cykelfabriken should not be confused with the Monark-Silver King, Inc., Chicago, IL, a manufacturer of classic bicycles from 1934 to 1957, (formerly the Monark Battery Company). Nor should it be confused with the Monarch Cycle Manufacturing Company, 1892–1899, Chicago, New York, San Francisco and Toronto, founded by John William Kiser.

Models (bicycles and scooters)

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Electric bicycle

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Monark produces the Elcykel, an electric bicycle, built of aluminum with the same engine system including Posten AB uses. It utilizes a 10 Ah Lithium battery for long running time and fast recharge and is equipped with a Navgenerator, approved locks and immobilizers elimination part.

  • ECO 1430 – Electric bicycle with an aluminum unisex frame and a Panasonic electric motor with pedal assistance for fast and comfortable cycling. Li-ion battery of 10 Ah for fast recharge and long range.[15]

Transporter

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The Transporter is a Unisex steel work bike which is equipped with a heavy-duty front carrier and a robust kickstand. The rims are made of stainless steel and reinforced spokes They are available as Shimano Single or 3-speeds. They only come in black.[16]

  • Work Bike – The 450-453 Work Bike is a bicycle for business use that meets high visibility requirements. It is equipped with reflectors, sharp safety color, quality components are the obvious arguments. Available in 1 and 3 speed and comes in fluorescent yellow and black.
  • Bayer – The Bayer is a simple and durable work bike which only comes in a step through frame and mounts a heavy-duty carrier to the front and a rack to the rear.

Truck

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The Truck is a work bike, popular in Denmark,[17] It is a steel framed work bike with a front carrier and generator lightning.[17] It is available as a single or three speed and only comes in Black.[17]

Military bike

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The military bike is a new version of the Swedish military bicycle, it is available in a men's or women's model. The rims are made of stainless steel with reinforced spokes. The bicycles are equipped with lock and generator lighting. They are only available in red or green and come as single or 3-speeds.[18]

Specialized bikes

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Monark produces the following Specialized bikes:[19]

  • Tricycle with two 20 or 24 inch rear wheels.
  • Tricycle with two front wheels
  • Tandem bicycle with 3 or 7-gears
  • Trailer

Scooters

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Monark produces the following scooters:[20]

  • Scooter 670
  • Scooter 660
  • Transport scooter 634 with large front carrying platform
  • Three-wheel scooter 624

References

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Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia
from Grokipedia
Monark, also known as Cykelfabriken Monark AB, is a Swedish manufacturer of , mopeds, and , established in in 1908 by Birger Svensson. Originally starting as a village store assembling and selling , the company expanded into full production of bicycle parts and later motorized vehicles. In the mid-20th century, Monark gained prominence through successes in Swedish bicycle races and off-road motorcycle competitions. It merged with Nymanbolagen in 1961 to form Monark-Crescentbolagen and is now part of Cycleurope, continuing to produce high-quality including the iconic Karin model introduced in 1999.

History

Founding and early bicycle production (1908–1920s)

Monark was founded in 1908 by Birger Svensson in , , initially as "Svenska Cykeldepoten," a small firm operating from a village store in Hunnestad before relocating to the town. Born in 1883 and raised in modest circumstances, Svensson had begun selling his first as early as 1904 through informal trading, but the formal registration of Svenska Cykeldepoten on October 1, 1908, marked the establishment of a dedicated focused on assembling and retailing bicycles via . With a modest initial staff of around eight employees, including a and a delivery boy, the operation emphasized practical, durable models suited to Sweden's rural and urban riders, prioritizing affordability and reliability for the domestic market. The company's early years involved evolution from basic assembly and repair services—drawing on Svensson's prior experience with bicycle parts—to full-scale manufacturing. By 1912, Svenska Cykeldepoten had transitioned to producing its own in larger volumes, incorporating robust frames and components designed for everyday Swedish use, such as and light . This shift allowed the firm to expand beyond imported parts, fostering a reputation for sturdy, cost-effective cycles that appealed to working-class consumers amid Sweden's growing interest in personal mobility during the pre-World War I era. In 1917, the company introduced the "Monark" brand name for its , evoking a sense of regal quality and durability to distinguish its products in the competitive market. By the mid-1920s, continued growth led to the construction of a new factory and a renaming to "Svenska Cykelfabriken" in 1925, solidifying its role as a dedicated bicycle manufacturer. This period of expansion in the 1920s also saw initial explorations into motorized attachments for , setting the stage for later diversification. The formal adoption of "Svenska Cykelfabriken Monark" in 1934 further branded the enterprise, aligning with emerging royal-themed model naming conventions that emphasized prestige and heritage.

Expansion into motorized vehicles (1920s–1940s)

In the early 1920s, Monark, building on its manufacturing expertise, began adapting sturdy s for motorized use, marking the company's initial experiments with engine-powered vehicles. Precursor efforts dated back to 1901, when Thure Lindblad imported Belgian beltdrive , including single-cylinder and V-twin models, under the Lindblad brand before the formal establishment of Monark Cykelfabrik in 1908. These imports and early attachments laid the groundwork for domestic production, with further experiments in leading to the launch of the Esse-branded in 1920, featuring a 172cc British Villiers in a heavy . By 1925, amid branding shifts, Monark adopted its name for , transitioning from the Esse label used from to 1926, and introduced its first fully domestic model in 1926 with a Swedish-designed frame and . This period also saw production of models like the Nordstjernan, an early with a Belgian FN , which helped establish Monark's reputation in the Nordic market. The late 1920s expansion into full motorcycles included models ranging from 250cc to 600cc, powered by British Blackburne engines, such as the 1929 Monark Blackburne 350 SV side-valve variant, which gained acclaim in enduro trials like the November-Kasan event. However, Sweden's 1928 traffic law revisions reclassified motorized bicycles as full motorcycles, imposing licensing and taxes that diminished the appeal of lightweight Esse models and prompted a pivot toward more robust designs. Production of these larger bikes continued into the early 1930s, exemplified by the 1930 Monark M10 with a Blackburne engine, but the severely curtailed sales, forcing Monark to limit output and emphasize affordable, durable utility vehicles over luxury or sport-oriented options. By the mid-1930s, economic pressures led Monark to discontinue larger singles (250–600cc) in 1936 and focus on lightweight alternatives, introducing a 98cc powered by a German ILO , which served as an early concept for cost-conscious consumers. This model, simply named the Monark 98cc, offered pedal assistance and basic motoring without full motorcycle regulations, aligning with the era's demand for economical transport. An upgraded 118cc version followed in 1939, but halted civilian production as Sweden's neutrality still imposed material shortages and export restrictions. During the war, Monark redirected efforts to military contracts, producing a limited run of 500cc motorcycles with 22 bhp Albin engines for the , capable of 74 mph and designed for rugged utility in defense applications. These wartime adaptations underscored Monark's resilience, prioritizing functional, low-volume vehicles amid global disruptions.

Post-war growth, racing, and innovations (1950s–1970s)

Following , Monark experienced a resurgence, leveraging the proven durability of its bicycles from wartime applications to inform robust designs. In the mid-1950s, the company gained prominence in Swedish bicycle racing, securing numerous victories in major national events, which solidified its reputation for quality and performance. These successes were driven by the development of high-performance frames, such as those using advanced tubing and tailored for competitive demands, leading to growing international recognition among cyclists and teams. A pinnacle of this racing era came in 1971 when Gösta "Fåglum" Pettersson, riding a Monark bicycle for the Ferretti team, won the overall classification in the Giro d’Italia, marking the first victory for a Swedish rider in this prestigious Grand Tour. This achievement highlighted Monark's sponsorship commitments and led to endorsements of specific models, boosting the brand's visibility in professional cycling circuits across Europe. Concurrently, Monark innovated in sports science with the introduction of the pendulum system for cycle ergometers in 1954, a brake power measurement principle developed by Dr. W. von Döbeln in collaboration with Prof. Per-Olof Åstrand at the Swedish School of Sport and Health Sciences (GIH). This system enabled precise, standardized testing of aerobic capacity for medical diagnostics and athletic training, becoming a cornerstone of Monark's ergometer production. Amid Sweden's economic boom and a surge in popularity during the , Monark reached production peaks in output, expanding facilities to meet rising demand for recreational and commuter models. The company also diversified its motorized offerings, broadening and scooter lines to address urban mobility needs, with models like the 50cc and 75cc variants introduced in the late featuring efficient two-stroke engines and practical designs for city commuting. These expansions, including the 1970 launch of 125cc enduro-style with Sachs engines, catered to both everyday transport and emerging , reinforcing Monark's role in Sweden's evolving transportation .

Mergers, acquisitions, and modern era (1980s–present)

In the early 1960s, Monark underwent a significant merger with Nymanbolagen, forming Monark-Crescentbolagen (MCB), which created a larger conglomerate and expanded its production capabilities. During the 1970s, Monark acquired the CH Kroon factory in Vansbro, consolidating manufacturing operations there and enabling continued production of under the Monark brand. By the mid-1990s, Monark faced restructuring amid broader industry changes. In 1995, the production of ergometer bikes was transferred to Vansbro, leading to the formation of Monark Exercise AB in 1996, a dedicated entity focused on cycle ergometers for , medical, and fitness applications. Concurrently, Monark Stiga was integrated into Cycleurope AB, a group owned by Italian-Swedish entrepreneur Salvatore Grimaldi through his , which also encompassed prestigious brands such as Bianchi, , and , allowing for shared resources and European market expansion. Entering the 2000s, Monark shifted toward sustainable mobility solutions, introducing models like the Eco series in and continuing with e-bike offerings such as the 3VXL in , emphasizing pedal-assist technology for urban . Under Cycleurope's ownership, Monark's current focus as of centers on high-quality urban and leisure bicycles, prioritizing timeless designs and Swedish to meet demands for reliable, eco-friendly . Production remains centered at facilities in for select models and Vansbro for broader assembly, maintaining a commitment to local craftsmanship. A highlight of this era was the Karin model, recognized as 's best-selling , with its classic frame design inspiring limited-edition variants that blend heritage with modern appeal. Monark's historical legacy continues to bolster its brand prestige in these contemporary markets.

Products

Standard bicycles

Monark's standard form the foundation of the company's product offerings, focusing on non-specialized designs suited for daily , recreational riding, and urban mobility in . These models prioritize simplicity, longevity, and accessibility, drawing on the brand's heritage of robust engineering to appeal to a broad range of users from casual cyclists to everyday commuters. Constructed primarily from high-quality , they offer exceptional durability against the demands of Swedish and , ensuring reliability over extended use without compromising on affordability. A hallmark of Monark's standard lineup is the classic curved frame design, which originated over a century ago and remains a element in many models. This timeless geometry provides a comfortable riding posture and aesthetic appeal, evoking the brand's early 20th-century roots while accommodating modern . The Karin model exemplifies this tradition, serving as Sweden's best-selling since 1999 and featuring variants named after members of the —a established in to underscore the brand's prestigious heritage. The evolution of Monark's standard bicycles traces back to , when the company produced early road bikes optimized for paved urban paths and light touring. Over the decades, these designs progressed into versatile hybrids that blend road efficiency with comfort features like wider tires and upright handlebars, all while preserving core attributes of affordability and low-maintenance reliability. This progression reflects Monark's commitment to practical innovation, making the bikes ideal for leisure rides in parks or short commutes in cities like and . During the 1950s and 1970s, Monark achieved significant market presence in , driven by high production volumes of standard models and bolstered by the brand's successes in domestic bicycle racing, which enhanced its reputation for quality. At its peak, the company produced thousands of units annually, capturing a substantial share of the national market through widespread distribution and consumer trust in their sturdy construction. Some standard frames have since been adapted for electric variants, extending their utility without altering the core design philosophy.

Electric bicycles

Monark began offering electric bicycles in the as part of Cycleurope's portfolio, with early models like the 2008 Monark Eco incorporating crank-drive systems and lithium-ion batteries for pedal-assist functionality. These initial designs emphasized practical urban mobility, featuring wide puncture-resistant tires, integrated racks, and back-pedal brakes suited to North European conditions. Since 2017, Monark has integrated Cycleurope's proprietary EGOING system across its e-bike lineup, which includes both front hub motors and mid-drive options rated at 250 W nominal power, providing assistance up to 25 km/h in compliance with the EU's EN 15194 standard and . Current models, such as the e-Karin and Karl, utilize lockable 400 Wh lithium-ion batteries mounted on rear racks, delivering representative ranges of 40–60 km depending on terrain, rider weight, and assist level. Standard integrations include LED front and rear lights controlled via LCD displays, aluminum racks with AVS mounting systems, hydraulic disc brakes, and 7-speed hub gears, all built on aluminum frames compatible with Monark's classic geometries for a blend of tradition and modern efficiency. These e-bikes are positioned for eco-friendly daily and in urban settings, with weights around 22–26 kg and features like adjustable stems and puncture-resistant tires enhancing for diverse riders. In , Monark's sales have paralleled the region's e-bike market expansion, which has seen significant growth, with annual rates often exceeding 50% in the years following the introduction of government subsidies and climate bonuses in 2017, driven by broader sustainability initiatives promoting reduced . As of 2025, this growth underscores Monark's role in supporting green urban transport, with models priced from approximately 21,000–28,000 SEK reflecting their focus on durable, low-maintenance personal mobility.

Cargo and utility bicycles

Monark's involvement in cargo and utility bicycles dates back to the post-war era, where the company adapted its robust manufacturing capabilities to produce practical models for everyday . In the , these utility bicycles were designed for both rural and urban use, featuring integrations such as baskets and trailers to facilitate carrying goods and supplies in daily life. This period marked a shift toward functional designs that emphasized reliability for local delivery and personal hauling, building on the durable construction techniques developed during wartime production. From the through the , Monark offered transporter models equipped with reinforced frames and prominent front carriers, tailored for delivery services in commercial settings. These bicycles provided a sturdy platform for carrying packages and goods, reflecting the era's need for efficient, non-motorized transport solutions. Additionally, "" variants emerged as heavy-duty options, characterized by extended platforms that allowed for larger loads, making them suitable for small-scale freight in industrial and applications. advertising materials from the highlight these transport-focused designs as key products in Monark's lineup. In the , Monark has revitalized its offerings under the Monark brand, specializing in sustainable bicycles for urban and last-mile delivery. These contemporary models typically feature aluminum frames for enhanced maneuverability, combined with multi-gear systems to handle varied terrains in environments. capacities reach up to 200 kg, enabling reliable of such as packages or equipment without compromising stability. Examples include front-loader designs like the Centro series, which accommodate EU pallet-sized platforms and offer up to 1.3 m³ of enclosed space in variants, ideal for professional couriers. As of 2025, Monark's bicycles are integrated into the broader Cycleurope portfolio, emphasizing eco-friendly freight solutions for sustainable urban mobility. Long-tail configurations provide extended rear platforms for balanced load distribution, supporting applications from delivery services to rentals. These models, produced in , prioritize low-maintenance durability and adaptability, with options for baskets, cabinets, and modular accessories to suit diverse utility needs like mobile sales or package handling for partners such as .

Military and specialized bicycles

Monark played a key role in producing military bicycles for the during , manufacturing the standardized m/42 model starting in 1942. This bicycle was essential for troop mobility and , serving as a central component of Sweden's neutral defense strategy amid the global conflict. Designed for reliability in varied terrains, the m/42 featured a robust and puncture-resistant tires to withstand operational demands, with some variants incorporating foldable elements for enhanced transportability. Following the , Monark's m/42 bicycles were phased out of primary roles between and 1952, shifting to support functions like services and military training. In the and , Monark developed specialized off-road and folding models, such as the m/104A and m/105A, optimized for rugged environments with chromoly steel construction for superior strength, wide tires for better traction, and modular attachments for carrying equipment. These limited-production runs were primarily fulfilled through defense contracts, emphasizing durability over mass output. Under the Cycleurope umbrella as of 2025, Monark maintains production of specialized bicycles tailored for extreme conditions, including adventure variants built for off-road challenges and non-ergometer models suitable for therapeutic applications. Recent defense contracts, such as orders from the for soldier bicycles, underscore the brand's ongoing commitment to military-grade ruggedness, helping sustain the Vansbro factory amid economic pressures.

Mopeds and scooters

Monark began producing mopeds in the , focusing on lightweight models equipped with 49cc two-stroke engines to comply with Swedish licensing laws that permitted operation without a full for riders aged 15 and older, provided the vehicles had a maximum speed of around 40 km/h. These early mopeds, such as those powered by the ILO '' G50 engine, delivered approximately 0.8 at 4,300 rpm and featured integrated 2- or 3-speed gearboxes with kickstart ignition. Production continued into the , incorporating engines like the Franco Morini for later models, maintaining the emphasis on simple, urban-friendly designs derived briefly from the company's established frames. Key specifications for Monark's 1950s–1970s mopeds included chain or belt drives for , drum brakes for stopping power, and a compact 4.3-liter , contributing to their noted suitable for short-distance , often exceeding 50 km per liter in typical two-stroke operation. These vehicles also utilized telescopic front forks and 23- or 24-inch tires, enhancing stability on varied urban surfaces while keeping overall weight low for easy handling by young riders. In parallel, Monark developed scooter models during the , exemplified by the Trussty (also known as the Monarscoot), a Swedish-made design with a for accessibility and automatic or semi-automatic transmissions. Introduced in 1957 as a pedal-equipped using a 50cc ILO , it evolved by 1961 into a true scooter following Swedish regulatory changes that eliminated the pedal requirement, adopting a Husqvarna 50cc with footrests and kickstart. Later variants from 1965 to 1968 featured the Husqvarna "Flinta" and 10-inch wheels for improved maneuverability, reaching speeds up to 40 km/h, while the 1969 model used a Sachs before production ended. Monark's mopeds and scooters achieved peak popularity in , particularly among youth seeking affordable mobility for travel, with their compact size and low operating costs driving widespread adoption in and neighboring markets. However, production of these two-stroke models was phased out by the late , with the Trussty ceasing in amid rising competition, and overall motorized vehicle manufacturing halting by 1975 due to evolving market demands and early environmental pressures on emissions. Stricter emissions regulations in the further discouraged two-stroke lightweight vehicles across , contributing to the decline of such designs. Under Cycleurope, which acquired Monark in , there have been occasional explorations of retro-inspired or electric scooter concepts in the , leveraging the brand's heritage in lightweight two-wheelers, though production remains limited compared to bicycles.

Motorcycles

Monark began producing full-powered motorcycles in under the Cykelfabriken Monark AB brand in , following earlier experiments with smaller motorized bicycles branded as Esse from 1913 to 1926. These early Monark models built upon technology, incorporating pedal-start mechanisms in designs like the 1920 Esse 172cc two-stroke with or belt drive. By the late and into the , the company shifted to larger-displacement machines, including 250–600cc singles powered by engines in side-valve, , and Super configurations, emphasizing durability for rugged Scandinavian terrain. In the 1940s, Monark developed a 500cc overhead-valve for a supplied to the , producing 22 horsepower and achieving a top speed of 74 mph (119 km/h) in stock form, with tuned variants reaching 93 mph (150 km/h). This engine, built by Albin in collaboration with Monark, featured components for enhanced reliability and was adapted for use. Touring models from this era, such as those with or belt drives, prioritized stability on uneven roads, with top speeds around 100 km/h in practical variants suited for export markets. The 1950s marked Monark's entry into competitive , with the introduction of the 1959 Monark 500, a limited-production racer using the 498cc Albin four-stroke single mated to a transmission. Only five works bikes were hand-built between 1957 and 1960, none sold to the public, and they secured the 500cc World in 1959 ridden by Sten Lundin, along with multiple Grand Prix victories. These machines also contributed to Sweden's national successes, including the Swedish 500cc . Engine options during this period included Swedish-built singles like the Albin and twins such as the JLO 250cc, often paired with chain drives for racing and touring reliability. Export models like the Nordstjernan, featuring a Belgian FN , targeted international markets including and , underscoring Monark's focus on robust construction for diverse conditions. Production of Monark motorcycles continued through the and early , with models like the Enduro 125 featuring a Sachs producing 21 horsepower and a five-speed transmission. However, by the mid-, intensifying from Japanese imports, particularly Honda's CR125, eroded market share, leading to the cessation of full-powered production in 1975, with final road and enduro models assembled in 1976. As of 2025, Monark no longer manufactures motorcycles, focusing instead on bicycles.

References

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