Jawa Motorcycles, the iconic brand that originated in the Czech Republic and now headquartered in India, has gained a loyal following for its vintage design and sturdy build. Among the bikes produced by Jawa, the Perak and the 42 models have received considerable attention in recent times. While both bikes have a retro look and feel, they are distinct in their features and target market. This article aims to provide a detailed comparison of Jawa Perak and Jawa 42, highlighting their specifications, performance, design, and price.
Introduction
Jawa Motorcycles, a subsidiary of Classic Legends, has been making bikes since 1929. After a hiatus, the brand was revived in India in 2018 and has since been producing some of the most desirable retro bikes. Two of its models, Jawa Perak and Jawa 42, have caught the attention of bike enthusiasts worldwide. In this article, we will compare Jawa Perak and Jawa 42 in terms of engine and performance, design and style, features, price and value, and target market.
Overview of Jawa Perak
Jawa Perak, launched in November 2019, is the latest addition to the Jawa lineup. It is a bobber-style motorcycle that draws inspiration from the 1940s-era Perak model. It is available in only one variant and one color: Matte Black. Jawa Perak comes with a BS6-compliant 334cc liquid-cooled, single-cylinder engine that produces 30 horsepower and 32 Nm of torque. It has a six-speed gearbox and a slipper clutch. The bike’s frame is a double-cradle unit that gives it a classic look.
Overview of Jawa 42
Jawa 42, launched in November 2018, is a neo-retro motorcycle that takes its design cues from the iconic Jawa 350. It is available in six color options: Halley’s Teal, Starlight Blue, Lumos Lime, Comet Red, Nebula Blue, and Galactic Green. Jawa 42 comes with a BS6-compliant 293cc liquid-cooled, single-cylinder engine that produces 27 horsepower and 27 Nm of torque. It has a six-speed gearbox and a slipper clutch. The bike’s frame is a double-cradle unit with a teardrop fuel tank that enhances its sporty appeal.
Engine and Performance Comparison
Engine Specifications
Jawa Perak and Jawa 42 have similar engine configurations, with the former having a slightly more powerful engine.
| Model | Engine | Displacement | Power | Torque |
| Jawa Perak | Liquid-cooled, single-cylinder | 334cc | 30 hp | 32 Nm |
| Jawa 42 | Liquid-cooled, single-cylinder | 293cc | 27 hp | 27 Nm |
Acceleration and Speed
Jawa Perak’s larger engine and higher power output make it faster than Jawa 42. The former can go from 0 to 60 km/h in 2.75 seconds and reach a top speed of 150 km/h. On the other hand, Jawa 42 can reach 60 km/h in 3.5 seconds and has a top speed of 130 km/h.
Fuel Efficiency
Jawa Perak and Jawa 42 have the same fuel efficiency figures, with both bikes offering a mileage of around 35-40 km/l. However, the actual fuel efficiency may vary depending on various factors such as riding style, terrain, and traffic conditions.
Design and Style Comparison
Frame and Chassis
Jawa Perak and Jawa 42 have similar frame and chassis configurations. Both bikes have a double-cradle frame made of steel, which provides a sturdy and stable base for the engine and other components. The suspension system of both bikes consists of telescopic front forks and twin gas-charged shock absorbers at the rear.
Dimension and Weight
Jawa Perak is larger and heavier than Jawa 42, which gives it a more commanding presence on the road. The former has a length of 2,163 mm, a width of 789 mm, and a height of 1,116 mm, while the latter has a length of 2,040 mm, a width of 772 mm, and a height of 1,090 mm. Jawa Perak weighs 179 kg, while Jawa 42 weighs 172 kg.
Colors and Finishes
Jawa Perak comes in only one color: Matte Black, which gives it a distinctive and bold look. Jawa 42, on the other hand, is available in six color options: Halley’s Teal, Starlight Blue, Lumos Lime, Comet Red, Nebula Blue, and Galactic Green. These colors give Jawa 42 a youthful and trendy appeal.
Features Comparison
Instrument Cluster
Jawa Perak and Jawa 42 have different instrument clusters, which reflect their distinct design philosophies. Jawa Perak has a single-pod digital instrument console that shows information such as speed, odometer, trip meter, fuel level, and gear position. Jawa 42, on the other hand, has a twin-pod analog-digital instrument console that displays speed, tachometer, fuel gauge, odometer, and trip meter.
Lighting and Electricals
Both Jawa Perak and Jawa 42 have similar lighting systems, with both bikes featuring a halogen headlamp, LED taillight, and turn indicators. However, Jawa Perak has a more minimalist approach to lighting, with a smaller headlamp and taillight.
Brakes and Suspension
Jawa Perak and Jawa 42 have the same braking system, with both bikes featuring a disc brake at the front and rear. However, Jawa Perak has a larger front disc (280 mm) than Jawa 42 (280 mm vs. 280 mm). The suspension system of both bikes consists of telescopic front forks and twin gas-charged shock absorbers at the rear.
Ex-Showroom Price
Jawa Perak is significantly more expensive than Jawa 42, which is reflected in its premium positioning. The ex-showroom price of Jawa Perak in India is INR 2,06,000, while that of Jawa 42 is INR 1,83,942. This price difference makes Jawa Perak a more exclusive and aspirational motorcycle.
Value for Money
Jawa Perak and Jawa 42 offer different value propositions to buyers. While Jawa Perak is aimed at riders who want a premium and exclusive motorcycle with a powerful engine and distinctive design, Jawa 42 is targeted at a younger audience who are looking for a stylish and affordable bike with decent performance. Therefore, the value for money equation depends on the buyer’s preferences and priorities.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Jawa Perak and Jawa 42 are two distinct motorcycles with different design, performance, and value propositions. While Jawa Perak is a premium cruiser motorcycle with a powerful engine, distinctive design, and premium positioning, Jawa 42 is a youthful and trendy bike with a smaller engine, affordable price, and colorful design options. Both bikes have their own merits and appeal to different audiences, and it ultimately comes down to the buyer’s preferences and priorities.
FAQs
- Which is faster, Jawa Perak or Jawa 42?
Ans: Jawa Perak is faster than Jawa 42, with a top speed of 150 km/h compared to Jawa 42’s 130 km/h.
- What is the mileage of Jawa Perak and Jawa 42?
Ans: Both Jawa Perak and Jawa 42 have a fuel efficiency of around 35-40 km/l, depending on various factors.
- What is the ex-showroom price of Jawa Perak and Jawa 42?
Ans: Jawa Perak’s ex-showroom price in India is INR 2,06,000, while Jawa 42’s ex-showroom price is INR 1,83,942.
- What is the difference between Jawa Perak and Jawa 42?
Ans: Jawa Perak is a premium cruiser motorcycle with a larger engine, distinctive design, and premium positioning, while Jawa 42 is a youthful and trendy bike with a smaller engine, affordable price, and colorful design options.
- Which bike is better, Jawa Perak or Jawa 42?
Ans: The answer depends on the buyer’s preferences and priorities. If you want a premium and exclusive motorcycle with a powerful engine and distinctive design, Jawa Perak is the better choice. If you’re looking for a stylish and affordable bike with decent performance, Jawa 42 is a better option.
