If you’re a motorcycle enthusiast looking for a cruiser that merges classic design with modern engineering, the Jawa 42 Bobber could be your next ride. This retro-inspired single-seater is crafted with old-school charm and fresh performance dynamics, offering a unique take on city cruising and weekend rides alike.
Design and Style: Pure Bobber Aesthetics
The standout appeal of the Jawa 42 Bobber lies in its bold styling. From the chopped fenders to the low-slung single seat and wide handlebars, every design element screams custom bobber. The teardrop-shaped fuel tank with tasteful pinstriping and the round headlamp enhances its vintage charm.
Its blacked-out mechanical parts, chrome highlights, and broad tires complete the aggressive stance. You also get customization options like bar-end mirrors and adjustable seating, a rarity in this price range.
Engine and Performance
Powering the Jawa 42 Bobber is a 334cc, single-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine that produces around 29.5 hp and 32.7 Nm of torque. It’s mated to a 6-speed gearbox that shifts smoothly, making it suitable for both daily commutes and longer weekend rides.
The low-end torque is impressive, allowing the bike to cruise effortlessly at low revs. Despite its laid-back styling, it can pick up pace quite quickly and cruises comfortably at 90–100 km/h.
Ride and Handling
Don’t be fooled by the bobber looks — the Jawa 42 Bobber offers surprisingly stable handling. Thanks to its stiff chassis, wide tires, and low center of gravity, cornering feels planted. The suspension setup includes telescopic front forks and a 7-step adjustable monoshock at the rear, which absorbs most city bumps with ease.
The seat height is low, making it ideal for shorter riders. However, taller riders might find the footpeg positioning a bit cramped during long rides.
Features and Technology
Jawa has equipped the 42 Bobber with several modern features to complement its retro design:
- Full digital instrument cluster
- USB charging port
- Dual-channel ABS
- LED lighting
- Adjustable seat and clutch lever
While it lacks Bluetooth connectivity or navigation support, its feature list still aligns well with its niche.
Mileage and Fuel Efficiency
The Jawa 42 Bobber offers a mileage of around 30–35 km/l, depending on riding conditions. With a 12.5-liter fuel tank, it’s capable of covering over 350 km on a full tank — decent for long cruises.
Price and Rivals
As of 2025, the Jawa 42 Bobber is priced starting around ₹2.10 – ₹2.30 lakh (ex-showroom) depending on the variant and color. It competes with the Royal Enfield Classic 350, Hunter 350, and Honda H’ness CB350, but offers a more unique, bobber-specific design than the rest.
Verdict
The Jawa 42 Bobber stands out as a stylish, factory-made bobber that offers good performance, solid ride quality, and eye-catching aesthetics. While it may not have every high-tech feature, its charm lies in simplicity and character. If you’re someone who wants to ride something different yet practical — especially in the mid-range segment — this bike deserves a top spot on your list.
