The Jawa 42 is a modern reinterpretation of the iconic Jawa motorcycles that ruled Indian roads decades ago. With its minimalist styling, bar-end mirrors (in select variants), blacked-out theme, and sporty stance, the bike appeals strongly to young riders.
It competes directly with models like the Royal Enfield Classic 350, Hunter 350, Honda H’ness CB350, and Yezdi Roadster in the mid-capacity segment.
Price in India
The Jawa 42 price in India starts at approximately ₹1.98 lakh (ex-showroom) and goes up depending on the variant and colour option.
Estimated On-Road Price:
- Delhi: ₹2.25 – ₹2.35 lakh
- Hyderabad: ₹2.30 – ₹2.40 lakh
- Mumbai: ₹2.35 – ₹2.45 lakh
Prices may vary based on insurance, RTO charges, and accessories.
Engine & Performance
The Jawa 42 is powered by a 294.72cc, single-cylinder, liquid-cooled, BS6 Phase 2-compliant engine.
Engine Specifications:
- Engine Capacity: 294.72cc
- Power Output: 27.32 PS
- Torque: 26.84 Nm
- Transmission: 6-speed gearbox
- Cooling System: Liquid-cooled
- Fuel System: Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
The engine delivers smooth performance and quick throttle response. The 6-speed gearbox ensures relaxed highway cruising while maintaining strong mid-range torque for city riding.
Top Speed:
The Jawa 42 top speed is around 130–135 km/h, making it suitable for highway rides.
Mileage & Fuel Efficiency
One of the most searched queries is the Jawa 42 mileage.
- City Mileage: 30–32 km/l
- Highway Mileage: 33–35 km/l
- Claimed Mileage: Around 33 km/l
With a 13.2-litre fuel tank capacity, the bike offers a decent riding range of approximately 400 km on a full tank.
Design & Styling:
The Jawa 42 stands out with its unique blend of retro and modern design elements.
Key Design Highlights:
- Round headlamp with halogen setup
- Minimal chrome finish
- Matte and dual-tone color options
- Offset digital-analog instrument cluster
- Compact tail section
- Sporty riding stance
Unlike the more traditional Classic model, the 42 carries a youthful and urban appeal, making it popular among younger riders.
Features of Jawa 42
While maintaining a classic look, the Jawa 42 comes with essential modern features.
Notable Features:
- Dual-channel ABS
- Digital-analog instrument console
- Assist and slipper clutch
- USB charging port (in select variants)
- Side stand engine cut-off
- Tubeless tyres
Although it doesn’t offer Bluetooth connectivity like some rivals, it covers all necessary functional features for daily riding.
Riding Comfort & Handling
The Jawa 42 offers a comfortable upright riding position. The slightly rear-set footpegs give it a sporty feel without compromising comfort.
Suspension Setup:
- Front: Telescopic hydraulic forks
- Rear: Twin shock absorbers (gas-filled)
The suspension setup absorbs most road undulations effectively, though it can feel slightly stiff on rough patches.
Braking System:
- Front Disc: 280mm
- Rear Disc: 240mm
- Dual-channel ABS
Braking performance is strong and confidence-inspiring, especially in city traffic conditions.
Dimensions & Specifications
Here are the key dimensions of the Jawa 42:
- Kerb Weight: 182 kg
- Seat Height: 788 mm
- Ground Clearance: 165 mm
- Wheelbase: 1369 mm
The manageable seat height makes it accessible for riders of average height, while the moderate weight ensures stable highway performance.
Variants & Colors
The Jawa 42 is available in multiple variants and attractive colour schemes.
Popular Color Options:
- Orion Red
- Sirius White
- AllStar Black
- Cosmic Rock
- Celestial Copper
The matte and dual-tone options give the motorcycle a distinctive identity on the road.
Jawa 42 vs Royal Enfield Classic 350
One of the most common comparisons is the Jawa 42 vs the Classic 350.
| Feature | Jawa 42 | Classic 350 |
| Engine | 294.72cc | 349cc |
| Power | 27.32 PS | 20.2 PS |
| Weight | 182 kg | 195 kg |
| Mileage | 33 km/l | 35 km/l |
| Styling | Sporty Neo-Retro | Pure Retro |
The Jawa 42 offers a better power-to-weight ratio, while the Classic 350 delivers a more traditional thump and heavier road presence.
Maintenance Cost & Ownership Experience
The average Jawa 42 maintenance cost is around ₹3,000–₹5,000 per service, depending on usage and service type.
Pros:
- Strong mid-range performance
- Attractive styling
- Lightweight compared to rivals
- Good braking performance
Cons:
- Slight vibrations at higher RPM
- Limited service network compared to Royal Enfield
- No Bluetooth connectivity
Is Jawa 42 Worth Buying?
If you are looking for a stylish 350cc retro-modern motorcycle under ₹2.5 lakh, the Jawa 42 is a strong contender. It is ideal for:
- Daily city commuting
- Weekend highway rides
- Riders who prefer lightweight retro bikes
- Young buyers seeking a stylish cruiser
However, if you prioritise brand legacy, heavy build, and a strong service network, you may also consider Royal Enfield alternatives.
Conclusion:
The Jawa 42 successfully combines classic Jawa heritage with modern engineering. It delivers strong performance, an eye-catching design, and decent fuel efficiency. While it faces tough competition in the 350cc segment, it stands out for its lighter weight and punchy engine.
Overall, the Jawa 42 is a great option for riders who want a balance of performance, retro charm, and everyday practicality.