The Jawa 42 is a well-loved cruiser bike that seamlessly combines vintage charm with contemporary features. Manufactured by Jawa, a brand celebrated for its timeless and nostalgic designs, this bike offers a perfect blend of the past and present. In this article, we’ll explore its standout features, performance, pros and cons, and everything else you need to know about this iconic ride.

Key Features of the Jawa 42
Engine and Performance
- Engine Capacity: 294.72 cc
- Max Power: 26.94 bhp
- Max Torque: 26.84 Nm
- Mileage: 34.5 kmpl (owner-reported)
- Transmission: 6-speed manual
Thanks to its six-speed gearbox, the bike accelerates quickly and can reach high speeds.
Design and Styling
The Jawa 42 has a retro look, with a round headlight, a teardrop-shaped fuel tank, and a curved rear fender. The bike’s vintage style is made even better with halogen headlights.
Suspension and Comfort
- Front Suspension: Telescopic fork
- Rear Suspension: Twin shock absorber
The suspension system makes sure the ride is smooth, when the road is bumpy. It has adjustable damping, which helps you handle the bike easily.
Brakes and Safety
- Brakes: The Jawa 42 has disc brakes, which are great for stopping the bike. Depending on the version, it can come with either single or dual-channel ABS.
- Braking System: The ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) helps you stop the bike more safely by preventing the wheels from locking up.
Instrument Console
The instrument console on the Jawa 42 shows important information. In the lower models, it has a semi-digital display, while the higher models come with a fully digital dashboard.
Warranty and Service
- Warranty: The Jawa 42 comes with a 2-year warranty or 24,000 km, whichever happens first.
- Service Schedule: The first service is needed after you’ve ridden 1,000 km. After that, you should get the bike serviced every 6,000 km.
Jawa 42 Specifications
Specification | Details |
---|---|
Engine Capacity | 294.72 cc |
Max Power | 26.94 bhp |
Max Torque | 26.84 Nm |
Mileage | 34.5 kmpl (owner-reported) |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 13.2 liters |
Kerb Weight | 184 kg |
Seat Height | 788 mm |
Braking System | Single or Dual Channel ABS |
Front Suspension | Telescopic Fork |
Rear Suspension | Twin Shock Absorber |
Warranty | 2 years / 24,000 km |
Pros of the Jawa 42
1. Classic Looks
The retro design of the Jawa 42 has a vintage look that makes it stand out.
2. Comfortable Ride
The suspension and seat height of the Jawa 42 are designed to make long rides comfortable.
3. Good Performance
The engine of the Jawa 42 gives you plenty of power and torque. The 6-speed manual transmission helps the bike perform even better.
4. Affordable Price
The Jawa 42 is more affordable than competitors like the Royal Enfield Classic 350.
Cons of the Jawa 42
1. Heavy Weight
Weighing 184 kg, the Jawa 42 might feel a bit heavy for some riders, especially when you’re trying to move it around in tight spots or when parking.
2. Maintenance Cost
Some owners have said that taking care of the Jawa 42 can be a little pricey, especially if you need to service it often.
3. After-Sales Service
The Jawa 42 is a reliable bike, but some riders feel that the after-sales service (like repairs and support) could be improved in certain areas.
FAQs About the Jawa 42
The on-road price of the Jawa 42 in Delhi is approximately ₹1,99,868.
The Jawa 42 has a 294.72 cc engine and provides better mileage (34.5 kmpl). In comparison, the Jawa 42 FJ has a more powerful 334 cc engine, providing a mileage of 30 kmpl.
The Jawa 42 is available in 13 colors, including popular choices like Vega White, Voyager Red, and Asteroid Grey.
Yes, the Jawa 42 is perfect for long rides thanks to its comfortable seat, smooth engine, and suspension system.
Conclusion
The Jawa 42 is a great bike as it performs well, is comfortable to ride, and offers good value for the price. While it might be a bit heavy for some and can cost more to maintain, Jawa 42 is still a solid choice for anyone who enjoys cruiser bikes.