Born from the ashes left behind by World War 1, Jawa Motorcycles tug at your nostalgic strings and intrigue you with their irresistible design. The aftermath of the war left the adept workforce in need of work, and they let their abilities design pure magnificence poured into their models. Through meticulous techniques used in the manufacturing process, a motorcycle was born that touches realms of sheer thrill and adventure along with an esteemed ancestral legacy.
History and Growth
JAWA is a motorcycle manufacturer founded in Prague, Czechoslovakia, in 1929 by Frantisek Janecek. Later he bought the motorcycle division of Wanderer, a German automotive manufacturer. Company name was formed by joining the first letters of Janecek and Wanderer. In the past — especially in the 1950s — JAWA was one of the top motorcycle manufacturers, exporting its 350 models to over 120 countries.
Jawa Motorcycles, a brand with a rich legacy, has been a significant part of India’s motorcycling history. Based in Mysore, Ideal Jawa (India) Ltd began producing licensed Jawa motorcycles in 1960 under Jawa and Yezdi in 1973. The company was founded by Rustom and Farrokh Irani and received support from the then king, Jayachamarajendra Wodeyar, to establish a factory in Mysore in 1961.
The company Motorcycles were sold in India in 1960 under the Ideal Jawa brand. After 1973, they were also sold under the ‘Yezdi’ brand. Production eventually stopped in 1996, and several models were discontinued. But in 2022, three models were relaunched in India: Yezdi Roadster, Yezdi Scrambler, and Yezdi Adventure.
In October 2016, Classic Legends Private Limited (CLPL), a subsidiary of Mahindra & Mahindra, signed a licensing deal to launch motorcycles under the JAWA brand name in India. On November 15, 2018, the CLPL launched two motorcycles in India: Jawa and Forty Two. Exactly on the first anniversary, Perak was introduced in the Indian market. Next, the 42 was introduced in 2021, the same as Forty Two but with a modified appearance and equipment. In October 2022, the 42 Bobber was introduced. It uses the same engine as the Pérák but has more chrome and color options. These models are all manufactured in Pithampur, Madhya Pradesh.
Popular Models and Market Presence
Between 1961 and 1971, Ideal Jawa manufactured the 250 Type 353/04 under license, becoming one of India’s most famous models. Other notable models included the Jawa 350 Type 634 and the Yezdi 250 Deluxe. The motorcycles were known for their ruggedness and simplicity, making them popular in semi-urban and rural areas.
Export and Racing Achievements
Ideal Jawa also exported its motorcycles to over 61 countries, showcasing its global appeal. The company had factory teams for road races at Sholavaram and the National Motorcycle Rally Championships, highlighting its active participation in motorsports.
Decline and Closure
Despite its initial success, Ideal Jawa faced challenges and eventually ceased production in 1996 due to stricter emission norms, which ultimately became the death knell for all two-stroke motorcycles. At its closure, the company produced models like the 175, Monarch, Deluxe, Road Kings, and CL II.
Acquisition and Relaunch
In late 2016, Mahindra & Mahindra, through its subsidiary Classic Legends Private Limited, acquired the license to produce and sell Jawa motorcycles in India. The brand was officially relaunched on November 15, 2018, marking its return to the Indian market after a gap of 25 years.
New Models and Market Strategy
The relaunch introduced three new models: the Jawa (nicknamed Jawa 300), Forty-Two, and Pérák. These models blend the classic design language of old Jawa motorcycles with modern technology. They directly compete with other popular motorcycles in the 350cc segment, such as Royal Enfield. Here is the order of the launch of all Jawa models in India.
- Jawa (Jawa 300) (2018): This model, inspired by the classic Jawa 250 Type A, features a 293cc engine.
- Jawa Forty-Two (2018): A modern and urban offering with exact specifications as the Jawa 300.
- Jawa Pérák (2018): Features a 334cc engine and a more powerful performance.
- Jawa 42 (2021): An updated version of the Forty-Two with modified appearance and equipment.
- Jawa 42 Bobber (2022): Introduced as a stylish and modern bobber variant.
- Jawa 350 (2024): Launched with a larger 334cc engine and revised chassis.
- Jawa 42 FJ (2024): Launched with a 334cc single-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine.
Dealership and Financing Options
Jawa Motorcycles has established a robust dealership network with 319 outlets and 34 service centres across India. The company offers flexible payment options, including up to 60 months of financing, zero down payment, and no income-proof requirements, making it easier for customers to purchase their desired models.
