Back in 2018, the iconic brand Jawa made a comeback with the launch of three motorcycles, the Jawa Classic, 42 and the Perak. Out of which, the 42 is a modern take on the brand adhering to the signature styling with modern elements. And through the years, the 42 has evolved to become a nicer and better motorcycle overall.
That said, this is the updated Jawa 42 2.1 dual tone variant that comes with a few cosmetic updates and a couple of mechanical upgrades as well. So, what is new on this motorcycle? How different is it from the previous 42? How does it ride, perform and handle? We will let you know all of that in this review.
The 42 is a nice and smart looking motorcycle packing ample appeal. And it’s only gotten better with the new cosmetic updates. You now get a dual tone colour scheme, with four new liveries, this one being the Starship Blue features a gloss finish with new graphics.
The fuel tank now gets recesses allowing the rider to grip the tank better, the fenders have been redesigned and are shorter giving it a sportier look. You also get a textured finish for the crankcase covers and exhausts, new diamond cut alloy wheels, clear lens turn indicators and new handlebar grips.
Jawa has also carried out tweaks to the liquid-cooled single-cylinder mill that now runs smoother, feels more refined and has lesser vibrations. All of that has been possible thanks to better internal engine components, a revised 6-speed gearbox, larger throttle body, and a new engine map.
The revised gear ratios of the 6-speed gearbox does ask for frequent gear shifts for optimal performance, but at the same time what has also improved is the tractability. You can comfortably cruise at 35-40 kmph in the fifth cog without any complaints from the motor asking to downshift.
Jawa has made subtle changes to the seating triangle on the 42. The footpegs are slightly forward set, while the seat cushioning has been changed for better comfort. The rear shock absorbers are a little longer now, which has resulted in a slightly taller seat height at 788mm along with slightly more ground clearance.
The power delivery on opening the throttle is welcoming while the exhaust note from the exhaust pipes is equally smoother, which overall tempts you to ride this motorcycle with more enthusiasm.
The bike feels planted around corners when not pushed too hard and the MRF tyres offer a decent amount of grip to do that. As for the brakes, it maintains the same setup as the previous 42, which does a decent job of shedding speeds.
Priced at Rs 1.98 lakh ex-showroom, the updated Jawa 42 2.1 dual tone variant undercuts the Royal Enfield Classic 350’s Halcyon dual-channel ABS variant, making it an interesting and competitive proposition to consider.
Also Read: Jawa 42 2.1 Dual Tone Review: Stylish And Engaging
And we say that because, apart from the slightly smaller stature compared to the RE, the Jawa 42 is nimble, agile, brisk, performance-packed, and a good-looking motorcycle, which, put together, comes across as a fun motorcycle to ride.
