Royal Enfield Classic 350 vs Jawa 42 Bobber: Retro Style with Better Value?
by | 27 Aug 2025
In the fiercely competitive retro-cruiser segment, the Royal Enfield Classic 350 vs Jawa 42 Bobber stands out as a compelling head-to-head. Both motorcycles embody vintage charm, yet they diverge in performance, tech, and pricing. With the root keyword front and center, this comparison cuts straight to the heart of value—highlighting what makes each bike tick and which may offer more retro flair for your rupee.
Key Specs Comparison
Specification | Royal Enfield Classic 350 | Jawa 42 Bobber |
Engine | 349 cc, air/oil-cooled, single-cylinder | 334 cc, liquid-cooled, single-cylinder |
Max Power | 20.2 bhp @ 6,100 rpm | 29.5 bhp @ 7,500 rpm |
Max Torque | 27 Nm @ 4,000 rpm | 32.7 Nm @ 5,500 rpm |
Gearbox | 5-speed | 6-speed |
Kerb Weight | 195 kg | 185 kg |
Mileage (Claimed) | 35–41 kmpl | 30–31 kmpl |
Brakes | Disc with Dual-Channel ABS | Disc with Dual-Channel ABS |
Starting Price (Ex-Showroom Delhi) | ₹1.97 lakh | ₹2.12 lakh |
Engine & Performance
The Royal Enfield Classic 350 houses a 349 cc single-cylinder, air/oil-cooled engine delivering 20.2 bhp and 27 Nm of torque. It emphasizes a laid-back, thumping ride. In contrast, the Jawa 42 Bobber’s 334 cc liquid-cooled motor churns out 29.5 bhp and 32.7 Nm, targeting riders craving peppier acceleration and a spirited ride.
Chassis & Handling
Royal Enfield leans on its twin-downtube steel frame with telescopic forks, providing stability and comfort. The Jawa 42 Bobber counters with lighter weight and a monoshock rear, making it more agile in city traffic and twisty roads.
Technology & Features
The Classic 350 offers analog dials, basic ABS, and a heritage-first design. Meanwhile, the Jawa Bobber impresses with LED lighting, LCD display, slip-and-assist clutch, and a floating cantilever seat—bringing modern tech to retro styling.
Pricing & Fuel Economy
The Classic 350 is priced more accessibly at ₹1.97 lakh, offering higher mileage of 35–41 kmpl. The Jawa 42 Bobber, starting at ₹2.12 lakh, demands a premium but offers performance and tech perks, though at lower efficiency (30–31 kmpl).
Conclusion
If you’re seeking timeless aesthetics, cruising comfort, and better mileage, the Classic 350 offers heritage value at a friendlier price. But for riders craving sharper performance, modern features, and bold retro flair, the Jawa 42 Bobber justifies its higher cost. The choice comes down to nostalgic simplicity versus contemporary retro cool—both delivering value in distinct ways.