The magic of retro-classic motorcycles has once again captured the hearts of Indian riders with the introduction of the Jawa 42 Dhakad. Revived by Classic Legends Private Limited, the iconic Jawa brand has made a powerful comeback in the motorcycle market. With its captivating design, potent engine, and affordable price tag, the Jawa 42 Dhakad has quickly become a preferred choice for middle-class youth seeking both style and substance. This motorcycle beautifully bridges the gap between nostalgic design and modern performance requirements.
Heritage Meets Contemporary Design
The Jawa 42 Dhakad perfectly balances retro charm with contemporary aesthetics. Its classic silhouette, rounded headlamp, and distinctive fuel tank pay homage to the original Jawa motorcycles that once ruled Indian roads decades ago. However, modern elements like LED lighting, a digital-analog instrument cluster, and sleek exhaust pipes ensure it appeals to today’s riders. Available in six striking colors including Midnight Black, Rebel Red, and Arctic Silver in both matte and glossy finishes, the motorcycle offers plenty of personalization options that help riders express their individual style while maintaining the bike’s timeless appeal.
Power and Performance
Under its classic exterior, the Jawa 42 Dhakad houses a powerful 293cc liquid-cooled, single-cylinder, fuel-injected engine that generates an impressive 27.33 PS of power and 27.02 Nm of torque. Paired with a smooth-shifting 6-speed gearbox, this powertrain delivers excellent performance in various riding conditions. The engine is specifically tuned to provide good low-end torque for city traffic and stability at medium to high speeds on highways. With the ability to accelerate from 0-60 km/h in just 3.5 seconds and reach a top speed of 135 km/h, the Dhakad offers thrilling performance without compromising on reliability.
Superior Handling and Comfort
The Jawa 42 Dhakad is built around a double cradle frame that provides excellent stability and sturdiness. Its suspension system consists of telescopic forks at the front and twin shock absorbers at the rear, ensuring a comfortable ride even on challenging road surfaces. Braking duties are handled by a 280mm disc brake at the front and a 240mm disc at the rear, both supported by dual-channel ABS for enhanced safety during emergency stops. With a seat height of 765mm and ground clearance of 178mm, the motorcycle accommodates riders of various heights while still managing Indian road conditions effectively.
Modern Features for Today’s Riders
Despite its classic appearance, the Jawa 42 Dhakad comes equipped with numerous modern features that enhance the riding experience. Full LED lighting improves visibility and adds a premium touch, while the digital-analog instrument cluster provides essential information at a glance. Practical additions include a USB charging port for keeping devices powered during long rides, mobile connectivity options, and safety features like a side stand indicator with engine cut-off function. These thoughtful integrations ensure that riders enjoy vintage aesthetics without sacrificing modern conveniences.
Fuel Efficiency and Practicality
The Jawa 42 Dhakad strikes an impressive balance between performance and fuel efficiency. In urban conditions, it delivers approximately 30-35 km/liter, while highway riding can yield 38-42 km/liter. Combined with its generous 13.2-liter fuel tank capacity, the motorcycle offers a range of around 500 kilometers on a full tank – making it ideal for both daily commuting and weekend getaways. This practical approach to performance ensures that owners can enjoy the thrill of riding without worrying about frequent refueling stops or excessive fuel costs.
Competitive Pricing and Value
Available in two variants – Standard (₹1,95,142) and Dual-Tone (₹2,03,142) – the Jawa 42 Dhakad offers excellent value for money in the retro-classic segment. Both variants share the same mechanical components and features, with differences limited to color schemes. The motorcycle comes with a reassuring 2-year/30,000-kilometer warranty and reasonable maintenance costs, with service intervals set at 6,000 kilometers or 6 months. Though the Jawa service network is still expanding, the quality engineering and relatively simple mechanical design make the Dhakad a reliable companion for enthusiasts and daily commuters alike.
The Perfect Choice for Modern Riders
The Jawa 42 Dhakad stands as an impressive contender in the retro-classic segment, offering a compelling alternative to established rivals like the Royal Enfield Classic 350, Honda CB350, and Benelli Imperiale 400. While each motorcycle has its strengths, the Dhakad distinguishes itself through its lighter weight (172 kg), more powerful engine, and modern feature set. Whether you’re seeking a reliable motorcycle for daily commuting, a stylish machine for weekend rides, or an affordable entry into the world of retro motorcycles, the Jawa 42 Dhakad delivers on all fronts, making it a well-rounded choice for the discerning modern rider.
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