Jawa v/s Royal Enfield Classic 350: Which one to buy
Just last week, Czech motorcycle brand Jawa announced its return into the Indian market. The company, which had a cult following in the 80s, unveiled three motorcycles sporting its signature design elements - Jawa (standard), Forty Two, and Perak. They all drive that retro wave, but Jawa, in particular, looks like a match for Royal Enfield's Classic 350. Let's see how they fare.
Design: Retro looks with modern elements
Both Jawa and Royal Enfield Classic 350 feature period specific, retro looks, but with modern touches here and there. They both have an identical wheelbase, but Jawa is 22Kg lighter with a kerb weight of 170Kg. It also brings round headlamps, fenders and a bulbous fuel tank like Classic 350, but you won't get a trip meter or ammeter on the former.
Under the hood: Jawa brings more power
Jawa packs a short stroke, liquid-cooled 293cc engine, while Classic 350 uses a 346cc single-cylinder air-cooled, carburetted engine. But, in terms of power, Jawa's engine wins the game. It has been tuned to produce 27 bhp of power, while Classic 350 only produces 19bhp of power. It is worth noting that both the engines produce the same level of torque at 28Nm.
Gearbox differences
Apart from power, the new Jawa engine also gets a 6-speed manual gearbox, while Classic 350 has a 5-speed gearbox.
Other elements on the two bikes
Both Jawa and Classic 350 get twin gas-charged shock absorbers with 280mm front disc brakes and single-channel ABS. On the rear, Jawa only offers 153mm drum brakes, but select variants of Classic 350 also come with an option of a disc with ABS. Also, note that the fuel tank capacity of this one (13.5L) will be slightly lesser than that of Jawa (14L).
Price and availability details
Even in terms of price, both motorcycles are pretty close. The new Jawa has been priced at Rs. 1.64 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi), while a fully-loaded Classic 350 with front and rear disc brakes and ABS comes at Rs. 1.62 lakh. The range of Classic 350 starts at Rs. 1.39 lakh and is available across the country, while Jawa will be available starting January.
Bookings are open for Jawa
All three Jawa motorcycles will be on display at the company's 105 dealerships across India, and test rides are likely to be available from December onwards. Bookings for the bikes are also open at just Rs. 5,000.
