Jawa 42 Bobber
The Jawa 42 Bobber has a top speed of ~130 km/h (estimated; note: official top speed not widely published), produces ~27 hp and weighs ~175 kg. Motoryk rates it 6.5/10.
The Jawa 42 Bobber was introduced by the Czech manufacturer Jawa in 2019, targeting the growing retro/bobber segment with an accessible entry-level cruiser. It revived the iconic Jawa brand in markets like India (where it is produced in collaboration with Classic Legends) and brought a neo-retro styling inspired by classic bobber motorcycles of the 1940s-50s. It became notable for offering authentic bobber aesthetics at an affordable price point, helping reestablish the Jawa name among a new generation of riders.
~27 hp
Power
~28 Nm
Torque
~175 kg
Weight
~130 km/h (estimated; note: official top speed not widely published)
Top Speed
Approximately 3.5 L/100km or ~28 km/L (typical real-world average)
Fuel
Naked
Body
Video Review
What Buyers Should Know
Proven BS6 Engine
The Jawa 42 Bobber runs a 294cc liquid-cooled, fuel-injected single-cylinder engine meeting BS6 norms, offering decent reliability for city and highway use. Regular oil changes every 3,000–5,000 km are critical to maintaining engine health.
Watch for Electrical Gremlins
Early Jawa models had reported issues with electrical components and service center availability, which can affect ownership experience. Before buying used, inspect wiring harness condition and verify the authorized service network near your location.
Moderate Resale Value
The Jawa 42 Bobber holds reasonable resale value within the retro-bobber niche segment, though it depreciates faster than Royal Enfield rivals due to smaller brand loyalty. A well-maintained example with service history commands a noticeably better resale price.
Generations & Specs by Year
Initial launch with 294cc single-cylinder engine, classic bobber styling, spoked wheels, and retro instrumentation.
Used Buyer Review
"Great-looking learner bobber that earns its price tag honestly."
$1,800-$3,200 usedThe Jawa 42 Bobber is one of those bikes that looks a thousand dollars more expensive than it actually is. That stretched silhouette, blacked-out finish, and low-slung stance genuinely turn heads at the lights — and for around two grand used, it's hard to argue with the visual bang for your buck. Czech brand heritage mixed with Indian manufacturing keeps costs down, and honestly, for city commuting and weekend café stops, it's surprisingly competent. Here's the reality check though. The 293cc single isn't going to win any drag races, and highway riding above 80km/h turns into a vibration session your wrists won't thank you for. Build quality is inconsistent across units — inspect electrical connectors and check for corrosion around the exhausts before handing over cash. Service intervals come around quickly, and dealer networks outside major cities can be sparse. Buy one with documented service history and you'll be fine. Skip that step and you're gambling.
Top 10 Accessories
Curated picks for the Jawa 42 Bobber — owned, ridden, recommended.
Common Problems
🔥 1 CRITICALCold start behavior, idle stability, throttle response
Battery voltage at idle, indicator lights functioning
Inspect tank interior, check petcock for drips
Bounce test rear end, look for oil leaks
✅Pre-Purchase Checklist
Decent budget bike, needs attentive maintenance always
Full Specifications
Rivals & Alternatives
Bikes that buyers cross-shop with the Jawa 42 Bobber
Yamaha Bolt R-spec
Triumph Bonneville Bobber
Yamaha Bolt 950
Moto Guzzi V9 Bobber
Triumph Bonneville Bobber Black
Compare Jawa 42 Bobber Side-by-Side
compare_arrowsSpecs, power, weight & buyer verdict — head-to-head with the bikes most often cross-shopped.
Jawa 42 Bobber vs Yamaha Bolt R-spec
Specs · Power · Buyer verdict
Jawa 42 Bobber vs Triumph Bonneville Bobber
Specs · Power · Buyer verdict
Jawa 42 Bobber vs Yamaha Bolt 950
Specs · Power · Buyer verdict
Jawa 42 Bobber vs Moto Guzzi V9 Bobber
Specs · Power · Buyer verdict
Jawa 42 Bobber vs Triumph Bonneville Bobber Black
Specs · Power · Buyer verdict
More Jawa 42 Bobber Guides
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View all Jawa models →Community Reviews
Discussion
Frequently Asked Questions
What are common problems with the Jawa 42 Bobber? +
Carburetor clogging and rough idle: Cold start behavior, idle stability, throttle response (moderate) | Electrical gremlins, weak charging system: Battery voltage at idle, indicator lights functioning (moderate) | Fuel tank rust and petcock leaks: Inspect tank interior, check petcock for drips (serious)
Is the Jawa 42 Bobber a good motorcycle? +
Great-looking learner bobber that earns its price tag honestly. Rating: 6.5/10. Best for: New riders wanting style on tight budgets. Avoid if: You regularly commute long highway distances daily.
What is the horsepower of the Jawa 42 Bobber? +
The Jawa 42 Bobber produces ~27 hp @ 6,000 rpm (estimated based on 334cc engine variant), with ~28 Nm @ 4,000 rpm of torque. Top speed: ~130 km/h (estimated; note: official top speed not widely published).
Is the Jawa 42 Bobber good for beginners? +
Yes — the Jawa 42 Bobber is a reasonable choice for new riders (27 hp is manageable), weighing 175 kg. New riders wanting style on tight budgets
Is the Jawa 42 Bobber reliable? +
Owners report 1 critical issue to watch for on the Jawa 42 Bobber, notably: Fuel tank rust and petcock leaks (Inspect tank interior, check petcock for drips). Buy with a pre-purchase inspection.
Is the Jawa 42 Bobber good for daily use? +
New riders wanting style on tight budgets Fuel: Approximately 3.5 L/100km or ~28 km/L (typical real-world average).
How fast is the Jawa 42 Bobber? +
The Jawa 42 Bobber reaches a top speed of ~130 km/h (estimated; note: official top speed not widely published), producing 27 hp at 175 kg curb weight. Real-world performance depends on rider weight, gearing, and road conditions.
What gear should I buy for a Jawa 42 Bobber? +
Motoryk has curated a Top 10 gear list specifically for the Jawa 42 Bobber, covering engine oil, tires, chain, battery, and brake pads — see motoryk.com/bikes/jawa/42-bobber/top10. Each pick is matched to this bike's spec.
