Sohrab Cycles

The company began in 1952 with a core of traders in Lahore, following a foreign exchange crisis which severely restricted imports in Pakistan. The traders saw an opportunity to domestically produce and sell bicycles, and consequently founded Sohrab on 8 September 1953 under Section 9 of the Co-operative Societies Act II of 1912. It initially had 22 members and produced 5 bicycles a day. It now has 228 members and produces approximately 2000 bicycles a day.[2]

Sohrab was setup keeping its workers in mind. All controlling powers of the company lay with the general body, who are elected into power every 3 years. Since its inception, elections have been held on a regular basis. Sohrab continues to maintain its social principles with a subsidized workers canteen and company hospital. It also pays for five of its workers to attend the Hajj pilgrimage in Mecca each year.[2]

Sohrab initially manufactured a single-speed roadster bicycle. This had a lugged steel frame and rod-brakes. This bicycle is still in production more than 50 years later. More modern MTB and BMX style bicycles were added to the range in the 1990s.[4] Sohrab have also diversified into producing cargo-tricycles, gymnasium equipment, push-chairs and wheelchairs. The latter are sold at cost price.[2] In 1994, Sohrab entered the motorcycle market with the JS70. A larger version of this was later used as the basis for an auto-rickshaw.[4]

Sohrab’s primary market is in mainly remote and rural population areas of Pakistan where the motorbikes and cars are still not affordable to some people.[1] A few big city people ride the bicycles on the city streets for exercise and have formed bicycling clubs for themselves.[5]

Major export markets have also been established in Afghanistan and Bangladesh. Sohrab wheelchairs are also distributed in Madagascar through a French rotary club.[6]

• Official Sohrab Cycles website