JAWA 350 OVERVIEW & PRICE
PERFORMANCE & ENGINE
The Jawa 350 has a single-cylinder, liquid-cooled, 293cc engine that delivers about 27 bhp at 6,500 rpm. This setup ensures strong acceleration and responsiveness for both city and highway riding. It can easily handle steep inclines and overtake, thanks to its peak torque of around 27 Nm at 5,000 rpm, providing solid low-end and mid-range performance.With smooth power delivery, the Jawa 350 offers a satisfying riding experience in busy traffic or on open roads. The motorcycle also has a 6-speed manual transmission for precise gear shifts, balancing acceleration with fuel efficiency. This gearbox is especially helpful for long highway rides, keeping the engine at lower RPMs for better fuel economy and reduced strain.
MILEAGE & FUEL EFFICIENCY
The ARAI (Automotive Research Association of India) claimed that the Jawa 350’s mileage was 30 kmpl. This figure is based on standardised testing conditions and represents the expected fuel efficiency for all bike variants.In real-world conditions, users have reported an average mileage of approximately 28 kmpl. This figure can vary based on riding habits, road conditions, and maintenance practices. With a fuel tank capacity of 13.2 litres, the bike can cover a significant distance before needing a refill.
FEATURES & TECHNOLOGY
The Jawa 350 has an impressive array of modern features that enhance safety and riding experience.
- Dual-channel ABS system
- Electronic Stability Control
- Traction Control System
- Advanced braking system with front and rear disc brakes
- Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS)
- Connected vehicle technology for smartphone integration
- Over-the-air (OTA) update capability
- Modern telematics systemli
- Ergonomically designed seating
- Advanced climate control system
- Premium infotainment features
- High-quality sound system
- Comfortable riding position for long journeys
BUILD QUALITY
The Jawa 350 features a robust double cradle frame for strength and stability, ensuring it can handle daily use and different riding conditions. Made from high-grade materials, it offers durability and longevity. The premium steel in the frame and body enhances its solid feel while resisting wear and tear.The paint quality is smooth and flawless, providing aesthetic appeal and protection against environmental elements. All components fit precisely to minimise rattling. Corrosion-resistant materials help prevent rust, especially in varied Indian weather, extending the motorcycle’s lifespan. Its spoke wheels are durable and designed for various road conditions. At the same time, the tyre materials ensure good grip and stability for reliable performance.
HANDLING
The Jawa 350 features a double cradle frame for enhanced stability and agility. It provides a well-balanced ride that improves control in various conditions. Its telescopic front forks absorb shocks from bumps and potholes, ensuring a smooth ride. The rear twin shock absorbers are adjustable for preload, allowing riders to customise the suspension for their weight and style.The motorcycle is lightweight and responsive, making it easy to manoeuvre, especially in urban areas where quick direction changes are often needed. Its balanced front, and rear suspension offers stable cornering and smooth transitions. The balanced weight distribution contributes to a planted feel, reducing unwanted movement during cornering.
The bike has 18-inch spoke wheels and wide tyres that provide excellent grip on different road surfaces, enhancing stability during high-speed cornering.Disc brakes on both front and rear wheels deliver strong stopping power, and the Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) prevents wheel lock-up in emergencies, helping maintain control. The Jawa 350 provides good feedback to the rider, making it easier to gauge limits and navigate various riding scenarios. Its lightweight design facilitates easy handling in city traffic. At the same time, it remains stable and comfortable at higher speeds on the open road, even in windy or uneven conditions.
COMFORT
The Jawa 350 features a well-cushioned, ergonomically shaped seat that supports both the rider and passenger, reducing fatigue on long rides. Its dual-tone design enhances comfort and adds visual appeal. The motorcycle’s upright riding position minimises strain on the wrists, back, and shoulders, promoting a relaxed stance during commutes or extended trips. Engineered to reduce vibrations, the Jawa 350 provides a smoother ride, lessening fatigue over time.
While maintaining classic styling, the bike offers some wind protection at higher speeds, helping to alleviate discomfort from wind blasts. The handlebars are positioned for a natural grip, allowing easy, comfortable control. Footpegs are designed to accommodate various rider heights, allowing for leg stretching and position changes during longer journeys.The engine runs quietly, enhancing the riding experience by letting riders enjoy the road without excessive noise. Overall, the Jawa 350’s ergonomic design prioritises natural posture, ensuring all controls are accessible and the bike can operate intuitively. This enhances comfort for both short trips and more extended travels.
STYLING
The Jawa 350 retains its iconic silhouette, returning to the original models. It features a rounded headlamp, a sculpted fuel tank, and a retro-styled rear end. This classic look attracts riders who appreciate vintage motorcycles. The motorcycle has a distinctive round headlamp that enhances its retro appeal and offers excellent illumination for night riding. The chrome detailing around the headlamp adds a touch of elegance.The fuel tank is gracefully contoured, providing a perfect blend of style and functionality. It features the classic Jawa emblem, further accentuated by its heritage. The tank’s design is not just for aesthetics; it also ensures a comfortable grip for the rider.
The exhaust system is designed to echo the classic Jawa bikes, featuring a low-slung position and a dual-tone finish. This adds to the overall styling and produces a signature sound that many riders find appealing. The wheels feature a classic spoke design that adds to the retro look while ensuring stability and performance.The choice of tyre sizes is optimised for both aesthetics and riding dynamics. Chrome accents are used throughout the motorcycle, including on the fenders and controls, enhancing its visual appeal and contributing to its timeless, classic feel.
COLOUR OPTIONS AND VARIANTS
Colour options available for the Jawa 350 are designed to cater to a diverse audience. Riders can choose from classic shades like
- Maroon(Chrome)
- Black(Chrome)
- Obsidian Black(Solid)
- Deep Forest(Solid)
- Grey(Solid)
- Mystique Orange(Chrome)
- White (Chrome Dual Tone variant)
The variants consist mainly of two trims, solid and chrome, with the chrome variant having a fuel tank fully covered in chrome.
VALUE FOR MONEY
Ex-showroom pricing in Delhi starts from ₹ 1,98,000 for the base Jawa 350 variant. Regarding value for money, the Jawa 350 stands out among its competitors. Priced competitively in the mid-range segment, it offers an excellent blend of quality, performance, and iconic styling that is hard to match.Compared to rivals like the Royal Enfield Classic and the Honda H’ness CB350, the Jawa 350 delivers a similar retro feel but often at a more attractive price point. Additionally, the reliability and lower maintenance costs associated with the Jawa brand further enhance its value proposition, making it an appealing choice for many riders.
JAWA 350 VERDICT
The Jawa 350 is a solid option for motorcycle enthusiasts in India. It blends classic design with modern performance. Its retro look appeals to those who appreciate timeless style, and its comfortable riding position and strong engine make it suitable for city commuting and longer journeys.
The motorcycle offers various colour options and variants, allowing for personal expression. However, potential buyers should note some downsides, such as its heavier weight than competitors, lack of advanced features, and limited service network in certain areas.Despite these drawbacks, the Jawa 350 is a strong choice in the retro motorcycle market, especially for riders who value its heritage and seek a reliable, stylish ride. Overall, it delivers classic motorcycling essence while providing solid performance, making it appealing to many riders in India.
PROS
- Retains the iconic Jawa styling
- Premium fit and finish
- Attention to detail in design elements
- Powerful 334cc engine
- Good fuel efficiency for its segment
- Smooth power delivery
- Modern engineering
- Comfortable riding position
- Decent fuel tank capacity for long rides
CONS
- Limited service network compared to competitors
- Availability of spare parts can be challenging in some regions
- Faces intense competition from established players
OTHER RELATED LINKS FROM BIKELEAGUE INDIA
LIST OF ALL JAWA BIKES IN INDIA
Origins and Early History
Jawa motorcycles were founded in 1929 in Prague, Czechoslovakia, by František Janeček. The name “Jawa” was cleverly derived by combining the first two letters of Janeček’s surname and Wanderer, the German company from which he acquired the motorcycle division. The company’s first motorcycle was based on a 500cc Wanderer engine. However, the more affordable Jawa 175 introduced in 1932 genuinely established the brand’s success.
Entry into the Indian Market (1960s)
The story of Jawa in India began in 1960 when two enterprising Parsi businessmen, Rustom and Farrokh Irani, recognized the potential of the Indian motorcycle market. They established Ideal Jawa (India) Ltd. in Mysore and secured a licensing agreement with the Czech manufacturer. The company quickly set up manufacturing facilities in Mysore in 1961, marking the beginning of Jawa’s significant presence in India.
Golden Era (1960s-1980s)
During this period, Jawa motorcycles became deeply embedded in Indian motorcycle culture. The brand was known for producing robust, reliable products and resonating well with Indian consumers. Some of the most popular models during this era included:
- Jawa 250 Type 353/04: One of the first models manufactured in India, featuring a powerful 250cc engine that made it popular among urban youth and racers.
- Jawa 350 SV: Known for its durability and advanced four-stroke technology.
- Yezdi Models:Introduced in 1971, these were modified versions of Jawa motorcycles specifically adapted for the Indian market.
Decline and closure (1980s-1996)
The decline of Jawa in India was attributed to several factors:
- Market Competition: Japanese manufacturers entered the market with more fuel-efficient and technologically advanced motorcycles.
- Technological Gap: Jawa’s two-stroke engines became less favourable than newer four-stroke engines.
- Management Issues: Following Farrokh Irani’s death in 1985, the company struggled with leadership challenges.
- Financial Problems: By the late 1980s, the company faced severe economic constraints and high manufacturing costs.
The market share dropped dramatically from 28.8% in 1981 to just 5.04% by 1987, ultimately leading to the closure of Ideal Jawa operations in 1996.
Revival Under Mahindra (2018-Present)
In 2018, the Jawa brand was revived by Classic Legends Pvt. Ltd., a subsidiary of Mahindra & Mahindra. The revival included:
- Initial Launch: Three new models were introduced on November 15, 2018:
- Jawa Classic
- Jawa Forty-Two
- Jawa Perak
- Current Portfolio: The modern lineup includes:
- Jawa Classic
- Jawa 42
- Jawa 42 Bobber
- Jawa Perak
- Jawa 42 FJ 350
Current Status and Future Prospects
Today, Jawa continues to operate under Classic Legends, focusing on expanding its presence in India. The company plans to increase its dealership network from 423 to 750 locations. While facing competition from established players like Royal Enfield, Jawa maintains its position in the market by combining classic design elements with modern technology, appealing to both nostalgic enthusiasts and new-generation riders.
