E-bikes from Finland
Helkama is a 120-year-old Finnish family business that manufactures modern and high-quality e-bikes and bicycles in Finland. Our factory in Hanko manufactures more than 25 000 bikes a year, ranging from city bikes to mountain bikes, but today we focus on being a pioneer of electric cycling.
Made in Hanko
Our factory manufactures more than 25 000 bicycles every year. In our modernised factory, modern technology and craftsmanship go hand in hand. E-bikes pass through 20 skilled pairs of hands on their way from components to finished product.
Modern domestic
Our bikes are designed for all conditions and needs – from urban to off-road, from sand to asphalt, from commuting to leisure. We focus on eye-catching design, product development, quality components and the best possible riding experience.
The key flag is a sign of Finnish work
Helkama’s e-bikes and bikes have been awarded the Key Flag label. The Key Flag is a label awarded by the Association for Finnish Work, which indicates that the product has been manufactured and employs people in Finland.
Responsibility in Helkama
At Helkama, we want to move people sustainably. We pay special attention to sustainable production, a responsible supply chain and well-being of our employees. To achieve our sustainability goals, we work closely with a wide range of suppliers and recycling partners.
Helkama history
We are a Finnish family business founded in 1905. Oiva, Aino, jopo and other legendary Helkama models are an integral part of Finns’ lives and everyday life, and we have been producing our own bikes at our factory in Hanko since 1953. Since the beginning of our history, Helkama has been synonymous with quality, durability and mobility.
Helkama history
The work of Helkama’s founder Heikki J. Helkama, which began as a trader, has branched out in many directions over the years. Helkama Velox, which manufactures, imports and markets bikes, is part of the Helkama Emotor family of companies, as are Adwatec, which manufactures power electronics pre-cooling systems, and Helkama Comeback Bikes, which sells used e-bikes. The Helkama companies also include Helkama-Auto, an importer of Skoda, AVIS and Budget, a car rental companys, and Helkama-Kiinteistöt Oy, a real estate company.
1905
Heikki J. Hellman sets up a company selling sewing machines, iron beds and bicycles in Tampere.
Heikki J. Helkama’s quote from 1909:
“…By offering to my valued buyers only first-class goods I have placed myself above all inferior competition. I have made the prices as cheap as is possible for really good bicycles. I think everyone has learned from experience that good is always expensive and that expensive always comes cheap.”
1934
The Helkama family moves to Helsinki and buys Suomen Koneliike Oy. Already in 1932, the sports shop Kisa was established in Helsinki.
1942
The Helkama brothers Matti, Paavo, Pekka and Eero take over the business.
1952
Industrial production of Helkama begins in Hanko.
1965-1966
Stories about the origins of jopo tell us that the father of the idea was Eero Helkama. Factory manager Erkki Rahikainen was responsible for the technical implementation, while industrial designer Eero Rislakki reportedly designed the reflector, the removable headlamp and the colours.