OVERVIEW & PRICE
Performance And Engine
The performance of the Jawa Perak is one of its key highlights:
- Engine: The motorcycle is powered by a 334cc liquid-cooled, single-cylinder engine.
- Power Output: It delivers an impressive 29.9PS at 7,500 RPM.
- Torque: The maximum torque produced is 30.01Nm at 5,500 RPM.
This engine configuration allows the Perak to offer smooth acceleration and firm performance, making it suitable for city riding and long-distance cruising.
The Jawa Perak is equipped with a 6-speed manual transmission, which provides smooth gear shifts and allows riders to harness the engine’s full potential. The gear ratios are designed to optimise performance across various riding conditions, whether in urban traffic or open highways.
Mileage And Fuel Efficiency
The Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI) has certified the Jawa Perak’s mileage at approximately 35 km/l. This figure indicates the motorcycle’s efficiency under standardised testing conditions, making it a relatively economical choice for riders looking for a stylish yet practical bike.
In real-world conditions, user-reported mileage for the Jawa Perak tends to vary based on riding styles and conditions. Many riders have reported experiencing mileage figures ranging from 28 km/l to 32 km/l. Factors such as city traffic, riding speed, and maintenance practices have been noted to influence these figures. Still, overall, the Perak is praised for its decent fuel efficiency.
Features And Technologies
The Jawa Perak comes equipped with a range of features that enhance its appeal and functionality, making it a compelling choice in the motorcycle market:
- Engine: The Perak is powered by a 334cc liquid-cooled, single-cylinder engine that delivers an output of 29.9PS at 7,500 RPM and a peak torque of 30.01Nm at 5,500 RPM. This engine provides robust performance and suits city commuting and long-distance rides.
- Transmission: It features a 6-speed manual transmission, which enables smooth gear shifts and allows riders to efficiently maximise the engine’s power delivery.
- Breaking system: The motorcycle has disc brakes on both the front and rear, ensuring reliable stopping power. It also offers an Anti-loc Braking System (ABS) for improved ride safety.
- suspension: The front suspension consists of telescopic forks, while the rear features a twin shock absorber setup. This combination delivers a comfortable ride by effectively absorbing bumps and providing stability.
- Instrumentation: The Perak features a retro-styled instrument cluster that combines analogue and digital displays, including a speedometer, odometer, and fuel gauge, ensuring essential information is easily accessible to the rider.
- Lighting: The motorcycle has a full-LED lighting system, including the headlamp, tail lamp, and turn indicators, which enhances visibility and modern appeal.
- Design elements: The single-seat configuration, minimalist fenders, and distinctive bobber styling contribute to its aesthetic appeal, making it a unique offering in the market.
Handling
The Jawa Perak features a double-cradle frame that enhances stability and handling for confident manoeuvring in city traffic and highways. Its telescopic front suspension and twin rear shock absorbers effectively absorb bumps, ensuring a smooth ride while balancing comfort and sporty handling.
Weighing around 200 kg, the Perak offers balanced weight distribution for agile handling, making it easy to manoeuvre in tight spaces and during low-speed turns. It comes equipped with dual-channel ABS and disc brakes at both the front and rear, providing effective stopping power and improved control, especially during emergency braking.
Comfort
The Jawa Perak features a single-seat configuration that is well-cushioned and designed for comfort. The seat height is accessible for many riders, making it suitable for shorter and taller individuals. The seat’s ergonomic design helps reduce fatigue during long rides. The riding position on the Perak is relaxed, with handlebars that are positioned to allow for a comfortable grip.
This ergonomic setup minimises strain on the rider’s back and arms, making it an excellent option for extended journeys. The motorcycle’s design and engineering effectively minimise vibrations felt by the rider. This enhances overall riding comfort, especially at higher speeds, allowing riders to enjoy longer rides without discomfort.
The combination of the advanced suspension system and comfortable seating contributes to an overall ride quality that is both smooth and enjoyable. Riders can expect a comfortable experience whether commuting in urban settings or embarking on longer road trips.
Build Quality
The Jawa Perak features a double-cradle frame that offers excellent stability and durability, enhancing handling and rider confidence during cornering and high-speed manoeuvres. Constructed with high-quality materials, the sturdy steel frame and premium body panels resist wear and tear, ensuring the motorcycle endures daily use and various environmental conditions.
Attention to detail is reflected in the high-quality paint finish that resists chipping and fading. At the same time, chrome accents add elegance to its classic bobber design. Jawa enforces strict quality control during assembly, ensuring that each motorcycle meets high performance and safety standards, contributing to Perak’s overall reliability.
Colour Options and Variants
The Jawa Perak is offered in a single colour palette that enhances its classic appeal:
- Stealth Edition: Features a dual-tone combination of matte grey and Stealth Matt Black
The Jawa Perak is available in a single variant, focusing on delivering a well-equipped motorcycle without the complexity of multiple trims.
Value for Money And Pricing
The Jawa Perak starts at ₹ 2,19,019 (ex-showroom), making it a competitive choice for buyers looking for a stylish and reliable motorcycle. It is powered by a 334cc liquid-cooled, single-cylinder engine that generates about 30PS and 30Nm of torque, providing sufficient power for city rides and highway trips. The sturdy double-cradle frame ensures durability and stability, showcasing the brand’s commitment to quality craftsmanship.
Key features include dual-channel ABS, a disc brake system for improved safety, and a comfortable single-seat design for long rides. The Jawa Perak offers substantial value for riders seeking a blend of style and practicality. In the Indian motorcycle market, it competes with notable models like the Royal Enfield Classic 350, Honda H’ness, and Bajaj Dominar 400. The Jawa Perak must highlight its unique design and riding experience to stand out.
VERDICT
The Jawa Perak is a stylish motorcycle with a unique bobber design that turns heads. Its 334cc liquid-cooled engine offers a good balance for urban commuting and leisurely rides. Its comfortable single-seat design and ergonomic riding position make it great for longer journeys. The durable, high-grade double-cradle frame adds stability and builds rider confidence.
Safety features include dual-channel ABS and a responsive disc brake system for reliable stopping power. However, it comes in limited colour options and a single variant, which may not suit everyone’s tastes. Overall, the Jawa Perak blends heritage with modern features, making it a solid choice for experienced riders and newcomers looking for a standout motorcycle.
PROS
- Striking Design: The Jawa Perak features a classic bobber design that appeals to retro enthusiasts.
- Strong performance:Powered by a 334cc liquid-cooled, single-cylinder engine.
- Comfortable riding position:The motorcycle is designed with a comfortable single-seat configuration that supports long rides without causing fatigue.
- Quality build:Built with high-quality materials and a robust double-cradle frame, the Perak is designed for durability and stability, ensuring a long lifespan.
- Safety features:Equipped with dual-channel ABS and a disc brake system, the Perak offers enhanced safety during rides, especially in emergency braking situations.
CONS
- Limited color options:The Perak is available in a single colour choice, which may not appeal to riders seeking more personalised options.
- Single variant:The motorcycle is offered in a single variant, limiting choices for consumers who prefer different features or specifications.
- Weight:Weighing around 200 kg, the Perak may feel heavy for some riders, mainly during low-speed manoeuvres or for those not used to heavier motorcycles.
- Fuel efficiency:While the performance is commendable, the fuel efficiency may not be as high as some competitors, which could be a consideration for budget-conscious riders.
- Service network:While Jawa has been expanding its service network, it may not be as extensive as some competitors, potentially leading to longer wait times for service or parts.
OTHER RELATED LINKS FROM BIKELEAGUE INDIA
LIST OF ALL JAWA MOTORCYCLES IN INDIA
Origins and Early History
Jawa motorcycles were founded in 1929 in Prague, Czechoslovakia, by František Janeček. The name “Jawa” was cleverly derived by combining the first two letters of Janeček’s surname and Wanderer, the German company from which he acquired the motorcycle division. The company’s first motorcycle was based on a 500cc Wanderer engine. However, the more affordable Jawa 175 introduced in 1932 genuinely established the brand’s success.
Entry into the Indian Market (1960s)
The story of Jawa in India began in 1960 when two enterprising Parsi businessmen, Rustom and Farrokh Irani, recognized the potential of the Indian motorcycle market. They established Ideal Jawa (India) Ltd. in Mysore and secured a licensing agreement with the Czech manufacturer. The company quickly set up manufacturing facilities in Mysore in 1961, marking the beginning of Jawa’s significant presence in India.
Golden Era (1960s-1980s)
During this period, Jawa motorcycles became deeply embedded in Indian motorcycle culture. The brand was known for producing robust, reliable products and resonating well with Indian consumers. Some of the most popular models during this era included:
- Jawa 250 Type 353/04: One of the first models manufactured in India, featuring a powerful 250cc engine that made it popular among urban youth and racers.
- Jawa 350 SV: Known for its durability and advanced four-stroke technology.
- Yezdi Models:Introduced in 1971, these were modified versions of Jawa motorcycles specifically adapted for the Indian market.
Decline and closure (1980s-1996)
The decline of Jawa in India was attributed to several factors:
- Market Competition: Japanese manufacturers entered the market with more fuel-efficient and technologically advanced motorcycles.
- Technological Gap: Jawa’s two-stroke engines became less favourable than newer four-stroke engines.
- Management Issues: Following Farrokh Irani’s death in 1985, the company struggled with leadership challenges.
- Financial Problems: By the late 1980s, the company faced severe economic constraints and high manufacturing costs.
The market share dropped dramatically from 28.8% in 1981 to just 5.04% by 1987, ultimately leading to the closure of Ideal Jawa operations in 1996.
Revival Under Mahindra (2018-Present)
In 2018, the Jawa brand was revived by Classic Legends Pvt. Ltd., a subsidiary of Mahindra & Mahindra. The revival included:
- Initial Launch: Three new models were introduced on November 15, 2018:
- Jawa Classic
- Jawa Forty-Two
- Jawa Perak
- Current Portfolio: The modern lineup includes:
- Jawa Classic
- Jawa 42
- Jawa 42 Bobber
- Jawa Perak
- Jawa 42 FJ 350
Current Status and Future Prospects
Today, Jawa continues to operate under Classic Legends, focusing on expanding its presence in India. The company plans to increase its dealership network from 423 to 750 locations. While facing competition from established players like Royal Enfield, Jawa Motorcycles maintains its position in the market by combining classic design elements with modern technology, appealing to both nostalgic enthusiasts and new-generation riders.
