JAWA 42 BIKE OVERVIEW & PRICE
PERFORMANCE AND ENGINE
The Jawa 42 is powered by a 294.7cc single-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine with a maximum power output of around 27.3PS at 8,000 RPM and a peak torque of 26.8 Nm at 6,500 RPM. A key highlight of this motorcycle is its J Panther engine, which is designed to deliver a blend of power and reliability for city commuting and long-distance touring.
The top speed of the Jawa 42 is approximately 135 km/h. This performance metric showcases the motorcycle’s capabilities. It indicates its suitability for highway riding, allowing riders to enjoy speed and stability.
The Jawa 42 has a 6-speed gearbox that allows for seamless shifting, enhancing performance and efficiency. The transmission is designed to balance power delivery and fuel efficiency, making it suitable for riding styles and conditions.
MILEAGE AND FUEL EFFICIENCY
According to the Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI), the Jawa 42 is rated with a mileage of approximately 37 km/l under standard testing conditions. This figure is derived from rigorous testing and indicates the motorcycle’s efficiency in controlled environments.
User-reported mileage for the Jawa 42 varies based on riding habits, road conditions, and maintenance practices. Many users have reported average mileage ranging between 30 to 35 km/l.
Factors that influence this variance include Aggressive acceleration and frequent braking, which can reduce fuel efficiency, while smooth, consistent riding yields better mileage. City riding typically results in lower mileage than highway cruising due to stop-and-go scenarios. Regular servicing and proper tyre pressure can achieve optimal fuel efficiency.
FEATURES AND TECHNOLOGY
TThe Jawa 42 is equipped with a host of features that enhance both functionality and rider experience. Here are some of the standout features:
- Engine and performance: It is powered by a 294.7cc single-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine.
- Transmission: The motorcycle comes with a 6-speed gearbox, which provides seamless shifting and enhances overall performance.
- Breaking system: Including a dual-channel ABS ensures safer braking under various conditions, prevents wheel lock-up during hard stops, and enhances rider confidence.
- Suspension: The front suspension features telescopic forks, while the rear has dual shock absorbers. Both provide a comfortable riding experience and good handling on different road surfaces.
- Instrumentation: The Jawa 42 features a classic analogue-digital instrument cluster that displays essential information such as speed, fuel level, and odometer readings while maintaining a retro aesthetic.
- Lighting: The motorcycle has an LED headlamp for improved visibility, a distinct look, LED turn indicators, and tail lights that enhance safety and style.
- Ergonomics: The bike is designed to be comfortable, featuring slightly raised handlebars and a well-padded seat, making it suitable for long rides.
HANDLING
The Jawa 42 is lightweight, making it agile and easy to manoeuvre through urban traffic. Its double-cradle frame offers a stable platform for control in various riding conditions. The front features telescopic forks, while the rear has dual shock absorbers, smoothing out bumps for a comfortable ride. This suspension setup also improves cornering, allowing for confident handling in turns.
The braking system, equipped with a dual-channel ABS, prevents wheel lock-up during sudden stops, enhancing emergency control and stability. The responsive steering allows quick direction changes, which is helpful in traffic and sharp turns. Quality tyres ensure good grip, allowing riders to control during acceleration, braking, and cornering.
COMFORT
The Jawa 42 features an ergonomic design that ensures a natural riding posture. It has slightly raised handlebars and well-placed footpegs for comfort during long rides. The well-padded seat, made from high-density foam, provides good cushioning and support while allowing freedom of movement.
Its suspension system, with telescopic forks in the front and dual shock absorbers in the rear, effectively absorbs bumps, resulting in a smooth ride even on uneven surfaces. The design includes wind protection features that reduce high-track fatigue, enabling longer trips without discomfort.
Additionally, the bike is engineered to minimize vibrations, enhancing the overall riding experience. The spacious seat comfortably accommodates both the rider and passenger. Users frequently praise the Jawa 42 for its comfort, making it an excellent choice for long-distance travel and daily use.
BUILD QUALITY
The Jawa 42 features a sturdy double-cradle frame made from high-quality steel, which provides excellent stability and handling for everyday use in various road conditions. Its construction with top-grade materials enhances durability, ensuring the engine, suspension, and braking systems perform well even after prolonged use.
Attention to detail is evident in the bike’s design, with a glossy paint finish that withstands wear and corrosion-resistant chrome accents for added longevity. The seat incorporates high-density foam for comfort, offering support for the rider and passenger. At the same time, the ergonomics promote a relaxed riding position suitable for long journeys.
Jawa maintains strict quality control in its manufacturing, ensuring each motorcycle meets high performance and reliability standards. Lastly, the Jawa 42’s classic styling blends retro aesthetics with modern engineering. It features an iconic tank shape and retro-inspired lighting that evoke nostalgia while ensuring functionality.
COLORS AND VARIANTS
New colours
- Vega White
- Voyager Red
- Asteroid Grey
- Odyssey Black
- Nebula Blue
- Celestial Copper Matte
- Orion Red Matte
Dual tone colors
- Infinity Black Matte, DT
- Starship Blue, DT
- Celestial Copper Matte, DT
- Cosmic Rock, DT
Single tone colors
- Cosmic Carbon
- All-Star Black Matte
The motorcycle is available in several variants.
- Single-channel ABS variant
- Dual-channel ABS variant
- Dual Tone
- Single Tone
VALUE FOR MONEY
The Jawa 42’s ex-showroom price in India starts from ₹ 1,72,942. This pricing strategy positions it competitively within the mid-range motorcycle segment, appealing to a broad audience. The Jawa 42 offers compelling value for money, making it a strong contender in its segment. Constructed with high-quality materials, it ensures durability and reliability. The engine strikes a good balance between performance and fuel efficiency, catering to both daily commuters and long-distance riders.
The Jawa brand carries a legacy that adds to its appeal, especially among enthusiasts of classic motorcycles. In the Indian market, the Jawa 42 faces competition from several notable motorcycles, such as the Royal Enfield Meteor 350, Bajaj Dominar 250, and Honda CB350. While these competitors have strengths, the Jawa 42 stands out with its distinctive retro design and brand history.
JAWA 42 VERDICT
The Jawa 42 is a compelling option in the Indian motorcycle market, blending retro-styled aesthetics with modern engineering and features. The motorcycle’s strong points include its powerful engine performance, diverse colour options, and competitive pricing.
While it offers impressive features and riding dynamics, potential buyers should consider the reported after-sales service and maintenance challenges. The motorcycle particularly appeals to enthusiasts who value classic design and contemporary features. However, it’s advisable to thoroughly evaluate the service network in their specific region before making a purchase decision.
PROS
- Stylish Retro Design: The Jawa 42 retains its iconic retro look, featuring a rounded headlamp, vintage curves, and chrome accents.
- Strong Engine Performance: Powered by a 294.7cc single-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine, offering a robust performance suitable for city commuting and highway cruising.
- Comfortable Riding Ergonomics: The motorcycle boasts a relaxed riding position with an upright stance and a well-cushioned seat, making it ideal for long rides and everyday use.
- Modern Features: It comes equipped with LED headlights, a digital-analogue instrument cluster, and a 6-speed gearbox, blending traditional aesthetics with contemporary technology.
- Solid Build Quality: The Jawa 42 is constructed from high-quality materials, ensuring durability and a premium feel, which enhances rider confidence.
- Heritage appeal: The brand’s rich history and legacy in the motorcycle industry resonate with enthusiasts, adding an emotional connection to the purchase.
CONS
- Weight Considerations: The motorcycle is heavier than some competitors, which could impact handling and manoeuvrability, particularly for new riders.
- Service Network Limitations: Although Jawa is expanding its service network, it may not be as comprehensive as that of more established brands like Royal Enfield.
- Fuel Efficiency: While performance is a strong point, fuel efficiency may not match that of some rivals, which could be a concern for those focused on economical riding.
- Aftermarket Customization: Compared to other brands, the availability of accessories and customization options may be limited, potentially restricting personalization for riders.
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.
