Jawa 42 Bobber: The Jawa 42 Bobber has emerged as one of the most talked-about motorcycles in India’s sub-400cc cruiser segment. Blending vintage bobber aesthetics with modern engineering, this stylish machine has captured the imagination of riders who value both performance and old-school charm.
With its distinctive low-slung design, powerful 334cc engine, and competitive pricing, the Jawa 42 Bobber is challenging established players like Royal Enfield Classic 350 and Honda H’ness CB350. Before you rush to book one, here are the top five facts about the Jawa 42 Bobber that every potential buyer should know.
Jawa 42 Bobber: Classic Bobber Design Language
The Jawa 42 Bobber showcases traditional bobber design elements with a minimalist approach. The motorcycle features a low-slung single-seat setup that gives it an authentic cruiser stance, making it instantly recognizable on Indian roads.
Key design highlights include a round headlight, tubular handlebar with bar-end mirrors, and twin slash-cut exhausts. The chopped fenders and teardrop fuel tank further enhance the retro appeal, while the clean lines keep the overall look uncluttered.
Available in attractive color options including Moonstone White, Mystic Copper, Jasper Red, Black Mirror, and the latest Red Sheen variant, the 42 Bobber offers plenty of personalization choices. The diamond-cut alloy wheels on higher variants add a premium touch to the classic aesthetic.
Jawa 42 Bobber: Dimensions and Ergonomics
The Jawa 42 Bobber is designed to accommodate a wide range of riders comfortably. The motorcycle has a seat height of 740 mm, making it accessible for shorter riders, while the forward-set footpegs create a relaxed cruising posture perfect for long rides.
It has a wheelbase of 1485 mm and tips the scales at 185 kg kerb weight. The motorcycle offers 135 mm ground clearance, which is adequate for Indian road conditions though riders need to be cautious over tall speed breakers.
The well-cushioned single seat provides ample support, and the handlebar positioning ensures a natural, comfortable grip that reduces fatigue during extended journeys. The overall weight distribution is well-balanced, making the bike easy to maneuver in city traffic and stable at highway speeds.
Jawa 42 Bobber: Features and Technology
The Jawa 42 Bobber comes equipped with modern features packaged in a retro body. It features LED illumination, a fully digital instrument console with speedometer, odometer, trip meter, tachometer, side stand engine cut-off, and fuel level readout.
While it lacks smartphone connectivity seen in some competitors, the console provides all essential riding information at a glance. Safety is prioritized with dual-channel ABS as standard across all variants, ensuring confident braking in all conditions.
The rear suspension features 7-step adjustable preload, allowing riders to fine-tune the setup based on load and riding style. The motorcycle uses telescopic front forks and a monoshock at the rear for suspension duties, providing a balanced ride quality though the firm rear setup may feel harsh on particularly rough roads.
Jawa 42 Bobber: Safety and Braking
Safety equipment on the Jawa 42 Bobber is comprehensive for its segment. The braking system consists of a 280 mm front disc and 240 mm rear disc, both equipped with dual-channel ABS.
This setup provides strong, progressive stopping power with excellent feedback at the lever. The ABS system prevents wheel lock-up during emergency braking, particularly useful in wet conditions or on loose surfaces.
The motorcycle’s low center of gravity contributes to stability during hard braking and cornering. The frame is a double-cradle design that provides rigidity and predictable handling characteristics. The combination of capable brakes, good tire grip, and manageable weight makes the 42 Bobber a confidence-inspiring machine for both novice and experienced riders.
Jawa 42 Bobber: Powertrain and Performance
The heart of the Jawa 42 Bobber is its refined powertrain. The motorcycle is powered by a 334cc single-cylinder, liquid-cooled, DOHC engine producing 29.51 bhp at 7,500 rpm and 32.74 Nm of torque at 6,000 rpm.
Power is transmitted through a 6-speed manual transmission with an assist-and-slipper clutch that ensures smooth gear shifts and prevents rear-wheel hop during aggressive downshifts. The engine delivers strong low-end and mid-range torque, making city riding effortless and highway cruising relaxed.
Riders can expect a top speed of approximately 145 kmph, with the bike capable of reaching 0-100 kmph in around 10-11 seconds. The liquid-cooled setup ensures consistent performance even in stop-and-go traffic.
The ARAI-certified fuel efficiency stands at an impressive 30.56 kmpl, though real-world figures typically range between 25-28 kmpl depending on riding style and conditions. The fuel tank capacity is 12.5 liters, offering a comfortable range of 350-400 kilometers between fill-ups.
Jawa 42 Bobber: Price and EMI Options
The Jawa 42 Bobber is priced from Rs 2.09 lakh for the base Moonstone White variant to Rs 2.29 lakh for the top Red Sheen variant (ex-showroom). On-road prices vary across cities but typically range from Rs 2.40-2.65 lakh depending on local taxes and registration charges.
This pricing positions the 42 Bobber competitively against rivals like the Royal Enfield Classic 350, Honda H’ness CB350, and Jawa’s own Perak. The motorcycle is available at Jawa-Yezdi dealerships across India, with booking amounts typically ranging from Rs 999-10,000.
Delivery timelines are generally 2-3 weeks for standard variants, though popular colors like Red Sheen may see waiting periods of 30-45 days in metro cities. Financing options are readily available through banks and NBFCs, with EMI starting from approximately Rs 5,500-6,500 per month at competitive interest rates for a 5-year tenure.
The Jawa 42 Bobber successfully delivers on its promise of being a stylish, capable cruiser that doesn’t compromise on performance or practicality. Whether you’re a daily commuter seeking character in your ride or an enthusiast craving weekend adventures, this bobber deserves serious consideration in India’s thriving retro motorcycle segment.