Quick Analysis
Benelli TRK 502
28.0 pts
Unweighted: 16 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresOther
JAWA 42
12.0 pts
Unweighted: 16 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresOther
| Specification | ||
|---|---|---|
Engine Specifications |
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| Cooling System | Liquid-cooled | — |
| Displacement | 500 | 294.7 cc |
| Engine Type | 2-cylinder/4-stroke/8-valve | — |
| Power | 35kW at 8500 r/min | 27.3 PS |
| Torque | 46N·m/6000 r/min | 26.8 Nm |
Performance & Efficiency |
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| Fuel Tank Capacity | 20 l | 13.2 L |
| Mileage | 25 kmpl | 32 kmpl |
Dimensions & Weight |
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| Kerb Weight | 210 kg | 184 kg |
| Seat Height | 835mm | 788 mm |
Brakes & Suspension |
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| ABS | Dual Channel | Dual Channel ABS |
| Front Brake | Disc Front 320 mm Caliper - Front 4 Piston | Disc Front 280 mm, Caliper - Front 2 Piston |
| Front Suspension | USD Telescopic Forks | Telescopic Forks, Ø 35 mm |
| Rear Brake | Disc Rear 260 mm Caliper - Rear 1 Piston | Disc Front 240 mm, Caliper - Rear 1Piston |
| Rear Suspension | Hydraulic Monoshock (Rebound & Preload adjustable) | Twin Shock Absorber, Gas Filled with Adjustable Preload |
Tyres & Wheels |
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| Front Tyre | 120/70 ZR17 | Alloy wheel - 90/90-18, 51P |
| Rear Tyre | 160/60 ZR17 | Alloy Wheel - 120/80-17, 61P |
| Tyre Type | Tubeless | Tubeless |
| Wheel Type | Alloy | Alloy |
Other Specifications |
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| Battery | — | MF Battery |
| Bike Image 1 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/trk502white.webp | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/42voyagerred.webp |
| Bike Image 10 | — | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/42cosmicrockdt.webp |
| Bike Image 2 | — | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/42asteroidgrey.webp |
| Bike Image 3 | — | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/42odysseyblack.webp |
| Bike Image 4 | — | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/42nebulablue.webp |
| Bike Image 5 | — | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/42celestialcoppermatte.webp |
| Bike Image 6 | — | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/42allstarblackmatte.webp |
| Bike Image 7 | — | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/42celestialcoppermattedt.webp |
| Bike Image 8 | — | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/42starshipbluedt.webp |
| Bike Image 9 | — | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/42infinityblackmattedt.webp |
| Color Options | — | Vega White Voyager Red Asteroid Grey Odyssey Black Nebula Blue Celestial Copper Matte Orion Red Matte Sirius White Matte All Star Black Matte Cosmic Rock Dual Tone Celestial Copper Matte Dual Tone Starship Blue Dual Tone Infinity Black Matte Dual Tone |
| Cons | Its heavy weight becomes noticeable in traffic, tight turns, and situations where quick direction changes are needed. While the suspension works well for moderate rough roads, very broken terrain can feel harsh or less controlled compared to more off-road-focused bikes. Maintenance and spare parts may cost more than typical mid-segment bikes, making long-term ownership slightly expensive. The power-to-weight ratio isn’t the strongest, so riders expecting a very punchy performance may find it a bit slow when accelerating hard. It lacks some modern electronic features that newer competitors now offer, which may disappoint riders looking for advanced tech and connectivity. | It’s not a performance-focused bike: top-end acceleration and high-speed punch are modest compared to sportier or more powerful motorcycles. If you crave quick bursts or aggressive overtakes, the 42 might feel a bit reserved. At around 180+ kg kerb-weight, it’s not the lightest — manoeuvring at very low speeds or parking sometimes feels a bit heavyish for inexperienced riders. While suspension is comfortable and balanced, it doesn’t offer sporty handling or sharp cornering agility. On twisty roads or aggressive riding, the bike doesn’t inspire a sport-bike vibe. For fully-loaded touring (pillions, luggage, rough terrain), the comfort and power are only average: it’s more of a commuter-plus or mild-tourer than a long-distance tourer. Because it aims for balance, it doesn’t shine in any single category. It may leave riders who want either pure vintage simplicity or modern performance wanting more. Tubeless/Alloy wheel + disc-brake setup is good, but tyre size and ground clearance (typical of this class) might limit comfort on severely broken or off-road conditions. Maintenance and running costs, while reasonable for a 300 cc class bike, will still be higher than basic commuter bikes — fuel, maintenance, and insurance will be more than a small-capacity commuter. |
| Detailed Overview | You swing a leg over the TRK 502 and you’re immediately aware that this is meant to be more than a city commuter; there’s a sense of presence, of readiness for longer roads. Under the tank sits a 500 cc, liquid-cooled, parallel-twin engine, running a DOHC layout with 8 valves. The bore and stroke (69 × 66.8 mm) and a compression ratio of 11.5:1 tell you that this engine is tuned for a healthy balance — it’s neither peaky and fragile, nor a torquey grinder. What you get instead is a smooth, flexible powerplant that builds revs steadily, giving enough grunt without being nervous or rough. At its peak, it delivers about 46.8-47.5 horsepower at 8,500 rpm and 46 Newton-metres of torque at around 6,000 rpm. That output, in plain riding, doesn’t mean blazing superbike sprints. It means confidence: enough urge to overtake on the highway, enough midrange torque for loaded touring or two-up rides, and smooth throttle response for city or mixed-road use. The 6-speed gearbox with chain final drive feels just right — shifts are predictable and the clutch (wet multi-plate / slipper clutch depending on region) handles starts and slow manoeuvres without fuss. Because this is meant for touring and everyday versatility, the chassis and suspension are built accordingly. A steel trellis frame acts as the backbone — sturdy enough to keep the bike stable at speed, yet with a bit of compliance to soak up normal road irregularities. Up front, there’s an upside-down telescopic fork (about 50 mm) with around 140 mm travel; at the rear a preload- and rebound-adjustable mono-shock with around 45 mm travel. What that gives on road is a setup that doesn’t punish you over bad surfaces but remains planted: potholes, imperfect tarmac or rough stretches are dealt with gracefully, while the bike stays composed even when you ask for speed or load it up with luggage and pillion. Physically the TRK 502 is substantial — long and purposeful. Its overall length is about 2200–2220 mm, width around 915 mm, and height roughly 1450 mm (slightly more depending on variant). The wheelbase of 1505 mm gives it stable tracking on highways and at speed, but that length and mass mean low-speed manoeuvres require some care — U-turns, tight corners, or dense traffic will need respect and a bit of strength. The seat height — roughly 800-835 mm depending on model/market — places you in a commanding riding posture: good for visibility and control, but may feel tall for shorter riders. Ground clearance around 190 mm means you’re also not too worried about speed-bumps or rough rural surfaces. When it comes to stopping and safety, TRK 502 doesn’t leave much to complaint. Twin 320 mm discs up front (with 4-piston calipers) and a 260 mm disc at the rear — both with dual-channel ABS — give you solid braking power and modulation. In everyday traffic or loaded touring, you get confident, progressive braking rather than abrupt grabs or fade, which is exactly what you want when you’re carrying luggage or a pillion. Fuel-wise, the 20-litre tank (with a bit of reserve) gives a decent riding range. Fill up and you can reasonably expect to tackle long rides or highway runs without constant fuel stops — an important detail if you plan to use this bike for touring or inter-city travel. Combined with the engine’s fuel injection and tuning, the balance between performance and range is well-struck. On the feature front, the TRK 502 comes decently equipped for its class. The instrument console mixes analogue and digital readouts (tachometer + digital speedo/fuel/odometer/trip) — enough to give you all the essential info clearly without overcomplicating the dashboard. Lighting, electrics and ergonomics are oriented toward usability: the riding position is upright, comfortable for long hours; footpegs and rider triangle are such that you don’t feel cramped even after a few hours of cruise. For everyday commuting, that means less fatigue; for touring, it means more hours in the saddle without strain. When you take it out on the open road — open highway, winding roads, rolling hills — the TRK 502 reveals what it is built for: stability, comfort, and controlled performance. It doesn’t feel underpowered even when carrying luggage or with a pillion; the twin’s smooth torque curve helps you manage traffic or overtakes with ease. On rough or uneven roads, the suspension soaks up the imperfections, and the frame feels secure. The overall setup makes it a comfortable, confident companion for trips that are more than just short city commutes. But there are trade-offs. Because the bike is fairly heavy and long, jockeying through tight city traffic or congested lanes means you’ll notice the bulk — quick zigzags or tight U-turns are not the bike’s forte. Seat height and weight can be challenging for shorter riders or those new to big bikes. The power-to-weight ratio is modest, so while it’s confident for touring or leisure riding, it doesn’t give the “sportbike thrill.” If you push it hard — say, frequent hard acceleration with two-up + luggage — you may find that intense use exposes the limits of a 500 cc twin configured for balance, not brute power. Overall, the TRK 502 feels like what you’d expect from a middleweight touring-oriented motorcycle — not a race-bred machine, not a lightweight commuter, but a capable all-rounder that lets you ride relaxed yet with enough substance. It’s ideal for those who want a single bike to handle everything: daily commuting when needed, weekend adventures, city-to-city travel, even occasional touring with a pillion and luggage, all without demanding sport bike instinct or compromising comfort. | The Jawa 42 has always been one of those bikes that immediately catches your attention, not because it shouts for it, but because it blends a classic silhouette with a cleaner, more modern execution. What lies beneath that timeless shape is a 294.7 cc single-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine that feels calmer and more refined than what its retro looks suggest. On the road, this engine produces power in a gentle, progressive manner, offering a shade over 27 horses and nearly 27 Nm of torque. Numbers aside, the way it behaves is what matters. It has enough poke to glide through daily traffic without effort and enough mid-range strength to let you make relaxed overtakes on open stretches. Liquid cooling helps the engine stay composed even in slow-moving traffic, which is something riders in Indian cities instinctively appreciate after a few weeks of ownership. Pairing this motor with a 6-speed gearbox adds to the usability. The lower gears keep the bike agile in congested areas, while the higher gears let the engine settle into a smooth rhythm once you get past city limits. It doesn’t buzz excessively at cruising speeds, which means longer rides feel easier on the hands and the head. You don’t really need to work the gearbox too hard; the bike has that effortless vibe where it moves without demanding constant attention. The chassis plays an equally important role in shaping the character of the Jawa 42. Built around a double-cradle frame, the motorcycle feels planted and meaningful, especially on predictable tarmac. The telescopic front forks and twin rear shock absorbers are tuned more toward comfort than aggression. On broken city roads, they absorb most imperfections without sending harshness to the rider. When the road smoothens out, the bike feels composed and reassuring, never twitchy or nervous. The rear shocks come with preload adjustment, which helps you tweak the stiffness based on your weight or whether you’re carrying a pillion. With a wheelbase that sits in a comfortable middle ground and a seat height that most riders can manage without a second thought, the 42 feels friendly the moment you swing a leg over it. The weight, hovering around the 180-kilo mark, is noticeable when you first lift it off the stand, but once the wheels start rolling, it becomes surprisingly easy to guide through tight city gaps. At slow speeds, it doesn’t feel top-heavy or intimidating, making it a bike that even new riders can ease into confidently. Braking performance further boosts that confidence. Disc brakes at both ends, supported by ABS, ensure the bike maintains composure even during harder braking scenarios. Whether you’re slowing down suddenly for an unexpected pothole or coming down from a quick highway burst, the bite feels progressive and predictable. The road grip from the tyres complements the braking setup, giving the rider a reassuring sense of control in both dry and wet conditions. The 13-litre fuel tank offers a practical range for mixed usage. In real riding, the bike tends to return mileage figures that make sense for a 300 cc machine—good enough for daily routes and long enough to avoid unnecessary halts during weekend rides. The riding position supports this versatility. The handlebar sits at a comfortable reach, the footpegs aren’t placed too far back or forward, and the seat shape suits both short commutes and longer journeys. Modern touches such as the digital or semi-digital instrument cluster add convenience without taking away from the classic charm. The display keeps essential information easy to absorb while riding, and the switches and controls feel straightforward and durable. The alloy wheels, apart from enhancing the bike’s stance, also bring the practicality of tubeless tyres, which every rider appreciates the moment a puncture threatens to ruin the day. What ties everything together is the way the Jawa 42 feels when you ride it. It’s not a machine built to chase top speeds or sharp cornering records. Instead, it’s designed to make everyday riding enjoyable. It’s smooth where it needs to be, steady when the road gets unpredictable, and stylish enough to turn heads without trying too hard. For someone who wants a motorcycle that merges classic aesthetics with modern engineering, and who values comfort and composure over outright aggression, the Jawa 42 fits naturally into that sweet spot. It becomes a companion more than a tool—a bike you look forward to riding every single day. |
| Expert Review | MotoAutiv Team | MotoAutiv Team |
| FAQ (Manual Override) | Q: What engine does the TRK 502 use? A: It uses a 500 cc, liquid-cooled, parallel-twin DOHC engine with 8 valves. Q: What is the power and torque output? A: The engine puts out about 47.5 PS at 8,500 rpm and delivers around 46 Nm of torque at 6,000 rpm. Q: What kind of transmission does it have? A: It comes with a 6-speed manual gearbox and a chain final drive. Q: What is the fuel tank capacity? A: The fuel tank capacity is 20 litres. Q: What is the seat height and ground clearance? A: The seat height is roughly 800–835 mm (depending on variant/market), and ground clearance is about 190 mm. Q: What is the kerb (or wet) weight of the bike? A: The bike weighs around 228–235 kg (depending on specification and additional gear/load). Q: What are the brakes and wheels/tyres setup? A: Up front there are twin 320 mm disc brakes with 4-piston calipers; at the rear a 260 mm disc. Both front and rear tyres sit on 17-inch alloy wheels, with tubeless tyres. Dual-channel ABS comes standard. Q: What is the claimed mileage / fuel efficiency? A: Mileage typically ranges around 30–34 km per litre (city and highway use). Q: What kind of suspension does it have? A: It uses a 50 mm upside-down (USD) telescopic front fork (about 140 mm travel) and a rear mono-shock with preload adjustability and around 45 mm rear suspension travel. Q: What kind of instrumentation and features does it offer? A: The instrument console combines analogue (tachometer) and digital displays (speedometer, fuel gauge, trip meter, etc.). It includes electric start, digital fuel gauge, trip meter, passenger footrests, and typical adventure-tourer ergonomics. Q: What is its top speed / performance potential? A: The top speed is around 160–165 km/h, and it can do 0–100 km/h in approximately 7.5–8 seconds depending on load and conditions. | Q1. Is the Jawa 42 good for daily commuting? Yes, the Jawa 42 works very well as a daily ride. Its engine is smooth in the low and mid-range, the riding posture is comfortable, and the bike feels easy to handle in traffic once it’s moving. The 6-speed gearbox also helps during mixed city and highway use. Q2. What is the real-world mileage of the Jawa 42? In normal riding conditions, most owners get somewhere around 30–35 km/l. Mileage can vary based on traffic, riding style, and how often you ride in lower gears. Q3. Can the Jawa 42 handle long highway rides? Absolutely. The bike maintains a relaxed rhythm at cruising speeds, and the liquid-cooled engine stays stable on longer stretches. The seat and riding triangle are designed to reduce fatigue, making weekend trips and short tours comfortable. Q4. Is the engine reliable for long-term use? The 294.7 cc, liquid-cooled, DOHC engine is built to be durable and refined. With regular maintenance and quality engine oil, the bike holds up well over the years and remains smooth even with daily use. Q5. How is the suspension comfort on bad roads? The suspension tuning leans toward comfort. The front forks and adjustable rear shocks absorb bumps reasonably well, making the bike suitable for broken city roads and uneven surfaces. Q6. Does the Jawa 42 vibrate at high speeds? The bike handles vibrations better than many retro-styled motorcycles. Mild buzz may appear at very high speeds, but cruising at moderate highway speeds remains smooth and manageable. Q7. Is the seat height suitable for shorter riders? Yes, the seat height is around 788 mm, which most riders can comfortably manage. Even shorter riders usually find it easy to place their feet on the ground. Q8. How are the brakes on the Jawa 42? With disc brakes at both ends and ABS, braking performance is confident and predictable. It offers good stopping power and remains stable even during sudden braking. Q9. Is the Jawa 42 heavy to manage? The weight feels slightly noticeable when pushing it while parked, but once moving, the bike becomes easy to maneuver. Its balance and geometry help it feel lighter than it actually is. Q10. What is the service cost like? Service costs are generally moderate for a 300 cc bike. Routine maintenance, oil changes, and consumables stay within a reasonable range, though prices can vary slightly between dealerships. Q11. Is the Jawa 42 suitable for beginners? Yes, it can be a good choice for new riders. The power delivery is smooth, the handling is friendly, and it doesn’t intimidate you with sudden acceleration. It’s a comfortable, approachable motorcycle for learning and improving skills. Q12. Does the Jawa 42 have tubeless tyres? Yes, the alloy wheel variants come with tubeless tyres, which is a major advantage for daily riders as they make puncture handling much easier. Q13. What is the fuel tank capacity? The bike carries a 13.2-litre tank, giving a comfortable riding range for both city commutes and weekend rides. Q14. What makes the Jawa 42 different from other retro bikes? It stands out for blending classic looks with a smoother, more modern engine feel. The liquid-cooled DOHC engine, 6-speed gearbox, and better high-speed refinement give it a more contemporary riding character while still keeping the vintage charm. |
| Fuel System | — | Electronic Fuel Injection |
| Price Variants | | 662000 | | 159000 |
| Pros | The TRK 502 is built for long rides, offering a relaxed riding position and a comfortable seat that help you stay fresh even after hours on the highway. Its suspension and chassis balance make it stable on rough patches, allowing it to handle mixed road conditions without feeling nervous. For its price, the bike comes loaded with practical touring features like hand guards, a large windscreen, good ergonomics, and a solid, confidence-inspiring build. The bike feels substantial on the road — its size and weight give it a strong presence, making it feel like a true adventure-tourer. The engine is smooth and predictable, making it friendly for newer riders while still offering enough power for everyday commuting and long-distance travel. | The 294.7 cc liquid-cooled, DOHC engine delivers smooth, usable power. It’s strong enough for city traffic and highway cruising without being overly aggressive — ideal for a daily ride or a relaxed weekend cruise. The 6-speed gearbox is a big plus: it helps keep the engine relaxed at higher speeds and offers flexibility for tight city riding, which makes the bike versatile whether you’re commuting or touring. Suspension and chassis setup balance comfort and stability nicely. The telescopic front forks and adjustable twin rear shocks soak up urban bumps and rough roads reasonably well, yet the bike remains composed on smoother roads. Handling and ergonomics suit a wide range of riders. Seat height and geometry keep the bike manageable in traffic or tight spots; once moving, the weight feels stable but not cumbersome. Disc brakes (front and rear) with ABS give reliable stopping power and good braking confidence — good for unpredictable traffic or sudden stops. The 13-litre fuel tank and respectable real-world mileage make it practical for daily use without frequent fuel stops. Blend of retro styling and modern engineering: it gives the classic-bike look and relaxed feel but with contemporary performance, maintenance comfort, and features like alloy wheels and tubeless tyres. Comfortable riding posture makes it suitable for both short commutes and longer rides; it's not tiring or too aggressive, which broadens the use-case beyond just city or weekend use. |
| Starter | Electric | — |
| Transmission | 6-speed | 6-Speed |
