If you have been dreaming of owning a proper bobber but don’t want the hassle of custom work, the Jawa 42 Bobber might just be your perfect match. This factory-fresh bobber takes everything that made the original Jawa 42 popular and strips it down to the bare essentials, creating a machine that’s equal parts attitude and performance.
Design That Stuns
The 42 Bobber doesn’t just look different – it stops traffic. That floating cantilever seat appears to hover over the rear wheel, creating a visual trick that makes the bike look like it’s defying gravity. The chopped rear fender hugs the fat tire so close you’d think they were made for each other, while the minimalist approach keeps distractions to a minimum.
What really sets this bobber apart is how Jawa has managed to keep the classic bobber DNA intact without making it look like a museum piece. The compact LED headlight gives it a modern face, while those knee recesses on the fuel tank add both style and functionality. Available in stunning colours like Jasper Red and Black Mirror, this bike ensures you’ll never blend into the crowd.
The Heart of the Beast
Under that unique silhouette lies Jawa’s proven 334cc liquid-cooled single-cylinder engine – the same “Alpha 2” powerplant that drives the Perak. Producing around 30 horsepower and 30 Nm of torque, this motor delivers exactly what a bobber should: strong low-end grunt and a satisfying mid-range punch that makes city riding a breeze.
The 6-speed gearbox comes with an assist and slipper clutch, making gear changes smoother than butter. Whether you’re crawling through traffic or hitting the highway, the engine responds with enthusiasm. The claimed top speed of 129 kmph means it’s not just about looks – there’s real performance behind that bold stance.
Riding Experience That Delivers
Here’s where the 42 Bobber really shines. Despite its low-slung looks, the riding position is perfect balance of comfort and control. The forward-set footpegs and pulled-back handlebars create that classic bobber riding posture without torturing your back on longer rides.
The floating seat is adjustable and isn’t just for show. Riders can adjust their position for maximum comfort whether daily commuting or weekend adventures. 740mm seat height means even shorter riders can put their feet down at traffic lights.
Modern Tech in Retro Wrap
Jawa hasn’t forgotten that this is 2025, not 1925. The 42 Bobber comes loaded with modern features:
- Full LED lighting for better visibility and that signature look
- Digital instrument cluster for all the info you need
- Dual-channel ABS for confident braking in all conditions
- USB charging port for longer rides
- Tubeless tires for better puncture resistance and easier maintenance
The suspension setup – telescopic forks up front and an adjustable mono-shock at the rear – is a perfect balance of comfort and control. Road imperfections get absorbed without compromising the bike’s stability during hard riding.
Jawa 42 Bobber Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine | 334cc, Single-cylinder, Liquid-cooled |
| Power | 29.92 PS @ 7,000 rpm |
| Torque | 30 Nm @ 5,500 rpm |
| Transmission | 6-speed with assist & slipper clutch |
| Fuel Tank | 13 liters |
| Seat Height | 740 mm |
| Ground Clearance | 165 mm |
| Brakes | 280mm front disc, 240mm rear disc |
| ABS | Dual-channel |
| Price Range | Rs 2.09 – 2.30 lakh (ex-showroom) |
Real-World Performance
ARAI claims 30.56 kmpl but real world figures are around 20-25 kmpl in city and can touch 30 kmpl on highways. The 13 liter tank is good enough for daily commutes and weekend getaways.
Also read: Benelli Leoncino 400 Bobber Unveiled with V-Twin Engine & Bold Bobber Looks!
Handling is where the 42 Bobber surprises many. Despite the bobber geometry it tips into corners easily and is surprisingly agile in traffic. The low seat height helps with stability but the wider turning radius means you need to plan your U-turns a bit more.
What Works
The 42 Bobber gets many things right:
- Unique styling that turns heads everywhere
- Strong mid-range for Indian roads
- Comfortable single seat for solo rides
- Modern features in classic package
- Competitive pricing for a factory custom bobber
What Doesn’t
No bike is perfect and the 42 Bobber has a few considerations:
- Engine heat in stop and go traffic
- Ground clearance can be a issue on rough roads
- Single seat won’t work for everyone
- Service network still expanding in smaller cities
Pricing and Variants
Starting at Rs 2.09 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi) the 42 Bobber is competitively priced in the premium motorcycle segment. The top end variant with special paint schemes can go up to Rs 2.30 lakh but even the base model comes with all the essential features.When you add the on-road costs including registration, insurance and local taxes you can expect to pay around Rs 2.40-2.70 lakh depending on your city.
Verdict
The Jawa 42 Bobber isn’t trying to be all things to all people and that’s what makes it special. It’s a focused, character rich motorcycle that delivers on its promise of classic bobber looks with modern reliability and performance.
If you’re tired of seeing the same bikes everywhere and want something that reflects your personality the 42 Bobber deserves a serious look. It’s not the most practical bike for everyone but for riders who value individuality and character over practicality this bobber hits the sweet spot between form and function.
Whether you’re a seasoned rider looking for something different or someone moving up from a smaller bike the Jawa 42 Bobber offers a unique riding experience that’s hard to find elsewhere in the Indian market.
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