Jawa 42 Bobber: The Indian riders have changed with time and today they not only want performance but also some availability and character on their prideful machines.
One such motorcycle that caught attention recently is the Jawa 42 Bobber.
Also a sibling to the Perak, the 42 Bobber features retro-modern styling, a single-seat configuration and custom design elements.
To riders who eschew conformity yet are equally wary of emptying their pockets out for a high-dollar custom, the 42 Bobber allows them to have their cake and eat it too resulting in an eye-popping factory-custom bobber that’s downright rideable.
Unique Design – It gets attention
Looks The Jawa 42 Bobber takes the cake in terms of design. It wears a traditional bobber silhouette — low-slung, chopped and floating — with a single seat ridden solo.
Its partially naked frame and tightly wrapped rear suspension leave very little appearance-wise to get in the way of it shimmering with sensuous rawness.
Unlike the Perak, the 42 Bobber gets some more contemporary styling that comes in the form of new paint options, white walled tyres (in some variants) and a relatively bolt upright handlebar for better ergonomics.
One can see the attention to detail in elements like the bar-end mirrors, an all-LED lighting system and machined alloy wheels. Whether parked or on the move, the 42 Bobber is striking yet few bikes in its price segment showcase the same stateliness.
Engine and Performance
The Jawa 42 Bobber is propelled by a 334 cc single-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine that delivers approximately 30.64 bhp and 32.74 Nm torque.
Near bottom mid-range, power is abundant as the motor is tuned for strong mid-range, a characteristic that’s just right for its cruiser persona.
It’s the 6-speed transmission that’s perfectly suited for the engine, it delivers smooth shift with no gear rattle and a hassle-free ride on the highway.
It’s got a nice little snap to it, smacking the bike smartly off the mark, and it lands in an upper register with a hard bite that helps give the Rebel that character.
It’s obviously not designed for high-speed corner carving, but it has all of what it takes for a spirited dash across town or a relaxed weekend back-road ride. The bike feels sure-footed and the throttle response is steady, especially in city conditions.
Ride and Handling
The Jawa 42 Bobber is all about comfort not agression. It has upright riding position, with foot pegs just a bit forward and a handlebar that is wide for a cruiser-like feel.
The seat is low and allows for most riders to be able to get their feet down with ease.
It has telescopic front forks and a rear monoshock that sits tucked away from view. Although the suspension is on the firmer side, it helps the bike maintain its poise even at high speeds.
There is, however, a harshness to the ride over bad roads and potholes — worth noting if daily comfort is one of your top needs.
Braking is via disc at either end with dual-channel ABS available.
The gasper-downers are smart, accurate and confidence-inspiring, especially for noobs graduating to the premium zone.
Features and Technology
The 42 Bobber has a digital instrument cluster which indicates necessary information such as speed, gear position, fuel level and trip meter.
The slipper clutch ensures seamless downshifts and an adjustable seat improves ergonomic comfort.
It’s also evident Jawa has been working on improving fit and finish over the Perak, with cleaner band for hiding the wiring, improved switchgear and better quality of paint.
These are all small improvements, but they add up to the most polished version of the game yet.
Pros:
Great performing 334cc Engine, strong and smooth power with good torque characteristics.
High on-road presence and attention to detail
Dual-channel ABS with slipper clutch for safety
Cons:
Firm rear end makes it a bit choppy on bumpy roads
Not the most practical for pillion riders on single seat configuration
Compact size and tour-friendly features
Slight vibration in higher Rpm’s
Jawa 42 Bobber: Final Thoughts
The Jawa 42 Bobber is an unusual proposition in India’s mid-size motorcycle market. It’s for the kind of rider who places as much worth on style and individuality as the riding experience.
Admittedly not the most practical of daily rides for all, but one that undoubtedly has bags of style, attitude and street presence.
For singles riders in, shredding down streets packed with windswept corners and straights best negotiated at full throttle, the 42 Bobber offers all the style and muscle you’ll ever need.