The Jawa 42 Bobber, launched with updates in India in 2025, is a cruiser motorcycle designed for riders seeking retro style and modern performance. Priced between Rs. 2.09 lakh and Rs. 2.36 lakh (ex-showroom), it targets enthusiasts and competes with the Royal Enfield Classic 350 and Honda H’ness CB350. With its classic design, robust engine, and updated features, it aims to blend heritage with practicality. This review details its price, specifications, features, and performance in India as of September 01, 2025.
Classic and Sturdy Design
The 42 Bobber features a minimalist bobber design with a steel frame, measuring approximately 2200 mm long, 890 mm wide, and 1115 mm high, with a weight of 185 kg. It offers no official IP rating but includes basic weather resistance. Available in colors like Moonstone White, Mystic Copper, and Red Sheen, it sports a low-slung stance with chopped fenders and a single seat, though the single-seat setup limits practicality.
Clear Display
Equipped with a 3.5-inch fully digital display, it delivers basic information like speed, fuel level, and odometer with moderate visibility. The simple layout includes switchgear with dual USB chargers, ideal for navigation, but lacks advanced customization compared to rivals.
Robust Performance
Powered by a 334cc liquid-cooled, single-cylinder engine (BS6 Phase 2, around 29.51 PS at 7500 rpm and 32.74 Nm at 5000 rpm), it offers strong performance for city and highway riding with a 6-speed manual transmission. It provides a user-reported mileage of 25-30 km/l, suitable for mixed use. Configurations include standard trims with no expandable storage. It manages heat with a basic cooling system.
Basic Camera System
The 42 Bobber includes a rear-view camera (optional) for parking assistance and no front camera. Features focus on safety rather than photography, matching competitors in its segment for practical use.
Efficient Fuel System
A 14-liter fuel tank supports 1-2 days of mixed riding (around 350-400 km range), with no fast refueling option. It relies on a standard fuel injection system, providing good efficiency but requiring regular maintenance.
Connectivity and Features
Supporting LED lighting, USB Type-A/C charging, and a digital console, it ensures basic connectivity. Features include telescopic front forks, dual rear shocks, and ABS, with single exhaust output enhancing audio. No 3.5mm jack is available.
Pricing and Availability
Priced at Rs. 2.09 lakh (base variant) to Rs. 2.36 lakh (top variant) (ex-showroom), on-road prices in Delhi range from Rs. 2.38 lakh-2.65 lakh, including RTO (around Rs. 20,000-25,000) and insurance (around Rs. 10,000-15,000). Available at dealerships since early 2025, bookings require a token amount. Offers include exchange bonuses and festive discounts. Maintenance costs are around Rs. 5,000-7,000/year, with delivery wait times of 15-30 days. The warranty is 4 years or 50,000 km.
User Feedback and Drawbacks
Feedback praises the retro design, engine performance, and mileage. The 4-year warranty and alloy wheels are highlights. Drawbacks include:
- Single-seat limitation.
- Firm suspension on rough roads.
- High maintenance costs.
- Limited storage.
Comparison with Competitors
The 42 Bobber competes with:
- Leading Royal Enfield model (Rs. 2.37 lakh, 349cc, 33 km/l): Better mileage, similar price.
- Top Honda model (Rs. 2.20 lakh, 348cc, 35 km/l): More comfort, lower cost.
- Premium Jawa model (Rs. 2.19 lakh, 334cc, 30 km/l): More power, similar price.
It excels in design and warranty but may lag in comfort and mileage.
Speculative Notes
The launch date is set for early 2025, with price estimates from Rs. 2.09 lakh-2.36 lakh. The 334cc engine and 30 km/l are confirmed, with a 4-year warranty as a standout. Buyers should verify with official channels.
Final Thoughts
The Jawa 42 Bobber, launched in 2025, offers a 2200mm frame, 334cc engine, and 25-30 km/l efficiency at Rs. 2.09 lakh-2.36 lakh. Ideal for riders needing style and heritage, it delivers strong performance, though it lacks pillion comfort. Backed by a growing network, it’s a promising cruiser pick.
