The Jawa 42. Old Crush in town.

This is version 2.1 of Jawa 42. In case you were wondering, the BS6 version that was introduced in the middle of last year was the Jawa 2.0.

In case you’ve been living under a rock for the past three years, allow me to reiterate the obvious: Jawa is not the company. The company, Classic Legends, is currently discreetly promoting itself on the motorcycle. It also sells two motorcycle models: the Jawa 42, which is this one, and the Jawa, which is also referred to as the Classic Jawa off-hand.

Since the 42 isn’t as mired in the past as the lovely but antiquated Classic Jawa, it is more well-liked. Additionally, the company Classic Legends released Version 2.1 in an effort to capitalize on its growing popularity.

Looks of Jawa 42

Lets start with the paint colors. Now you get the classic reds, blacks, and whites on the 42, for want of a better word. However, the traditional pastel color schemes are still in use.

Additionally, the motorcycle has an offset racing stripe that extends into the rear fender and along the fuel tank. The bar-end mirrors are new. And at last, the new 42 knows that chrome is out and black is in. Thus, the engine, exhaust, suspension, wheels, and everything in between get a blacked-out theme.

The wire-spoked wheels that came with the Pastel 42s have been replaced with multispoke alloys. Consequently, tubeless tires are also included with the Version 2.1. Tubeless tires are amazing. They make riding so much more convenient and worry-free. For starters, a puncture would hardly ever leave you stranded by the road.

Additionally, the seat has been improved for people with sensitive backs. It is now more cushioned.

Ergonomics And Engine of Jawa 42

However, the seating ergonomics remain unchanged. So swinging a leg over the bike is still possible. It still has a wide handlebar that is easy to reach. And, thanks to the footpeg positioning, the overall seating is still quite upright, if slightly cramped (for six footers, mind you). However, with the cushier seat now, longer rides would be more bearable.

The new Jawa 42 continues to use a dual cradle frame for a chassis suspended on telescopic forks up front and a pair of preload adjustable twin coil over units at the rear. It still has a 280mm front disc and a 240mm rear disc with dual channel ABS to handle braking duties. It also has 90/90 x 18 and 120/80 x 17 inch MRF rubber front and back, but as previously stated, these are now tubeless.

The powertrain remains largely unchanged as well. It’s still a 293cc liquid-cooled single-cylinder engine. And it’s still mated to a six-speed transmission. There is no change in the power and torque output figures, which remain close to 27bhp and 27Nm, respectively. However, refinement levels and engine response have significantly improved over the BS4 version. This is true for all Jawas currently on the market, including pastels, chromed, and even domed models.

There’s still nothing to write home about in terms of features.

However, the Jawa 42 remains a lightweight motorcycle. Alternatively, turn it around on the spot. So shorter, less fed riders will have no trouble adjusting. However, we are not fans of the current bar-end mirrors on the Version 2.1; they are too close to the handle grips, making pushing and moving the bike difficult. These simply get in the way.

Ride and Handling of Jawa 42

If you have a 300cc friendly motorcycle. The low seat height, low center of gravity, and friendly and linear power delivery all help.

So, whether you’re pottering around the city in stop-and-go traffic, thumbing it alive early in the morning because you ran out of bread, or just riding to work, the Jawa 42 doesn’t require any planning in terms of time of day, road surface, or route. You get on and ride. And it’s mostly trouble-free. Furthermore, the exhaust note is pleasant when driving at low speeds.

When you open the taps, there’s enough grunt to keep even the most ardent enthusiast interested. It gets off to a fast start. The ride through the gears is progressive, if not particularly strong. It also doesn’t mind reaching three digit speeds and then sitting there. It may not sound as good at the start, but it’s adequate.

Furthermore, even around the twisty stuff, it feels like home. Yes, it takes a while to drop into corners. It also dislikes abrupt changes in direction. However, turn things down a notch or two and the 42 handles surprisingly well. For the average Joe, cornering clearance is adequate. The grip and feedback from the MRF tyres are also impressive.

When leaned over, the Jawa 42 also does not wallow or buckle excessively, even on wavy or bumpy roads. And because the power delivery is so predictable and linear, you can give it a fistful of throttle at corner exits and not worry about it.

Braking works for the bike again – the bite isn’t too aggressive or mushy, and it gives good feel. As a result, entering corners, one can confidently apply the brakes. However, only if ridden at least 2 notches below optimum commitment!

The 42 will not leave you cursing or holding your back or behind in pain after a ride on bad roads, over bumps, through potholes, or even over undulations. We wouldn’t call the ride plush, and it can hammer your back through a seriously deep pothole. But, for the most part, the ride is predictable, reasonably absorbent, and nowhere near exhausting.

With tubeless tyres, one can finally explore roads, no roads, gravel paths, and the like without having to remove the wheels, flag down another motorist, or find a tyre shop in the middle of nowhere.

final verdict

FAQ

General

What is the price of the Jawa 42?
- The Jawa 42 starts at around Rs 2 lakh (ex-showroom).
Is the Jawa 42 BS6 compliant?
- Yes, the Jawa 42 was upgraded to a BS6 engine in mid-2023. This article discusses Version 2.1, which is the BS6 version.
What are the different variants of the Jawa 42?
- Previously there were Classic and Pastel versions, but Version 2.1 focuses on a more contemporary look.

Engine and Performance

What engine does the Jawa 42 have?
- It uses a 293cc, liquid-cooled, single-cylinder engine.
How much power and torque does the Jawa 42 produce?
- Power remains around 27bhp and torque is around 27Nm. Refinement and responsiveness have improved compared to the BS4 version.
Is the Jawa 42 good for long rides?
- The ergonomics haven’t changed much, but the new cushioned seat should improve comfort for longer journeys.

Features and Safety

What new features does Version 2.1 have?
- Blacked-out theme replacing chrome parts, new bar-end mirrors, alloy wheels instead of spoke wheels (with tubeless tires).
Does the Jawa 42 have ABS?
- Yes, it has dual-channel ABS.
How is the handling of the Jawa 42?
- It is suited for city riding and moderate highway cruising. While not ideal for aggressive cornering, it handles well for everyday use.
Are the brakes on the Jawa 42 good?
- Yes, they offer good feel and stopping power, though not the most aggressive.

Other

What are some alternatives to the Jawa 42?
- Honda H Ness CB 350 and Royal Enfield Classic 350 are the competitors.
What are the pros and cons of the Jawa 42?
- Pros: Unique styling, comfortable ride for most riders, good low-end grunt, decent handling.
- Cons: Fit and finish could be improved, some ergonomic limitations for taller riders.
Is the Jawa 42 a good value for money?
- The article suggests considering other options with potentially better features for the price.
Should I buy the Jawa 42?
- The decision depends on your priorities. If you value a stylish and somewhat emotional purchase experience, the Jawa 42 might be a good choice.
Where can I test ride the Jawa 42?
- You can visit your nearest Jawa dealership for a test ride.