Quick Analysis
JAWA 42
15.0 pts
Unweighted: 16 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
KTM 250 ADVENTURE
24.5 pts
Unweighted: 14 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
| Specification | ||
|---|---|---|
Engine Specifications |
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| Cooling System | — | Liquid cooling with radiator |
| Displacement | 294.7 cc | 249.07 cc |
| Engine Type | — | 4 stroke, Single Cylinder, SOHC, Internal Combustion Engine |
| Power | 27.3 PS | 31 PS @ 9250 |
| Torque | 26.8 Nm | 25 Nm @ 7250 |
Performance & Efficiency |
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| Fuel Tank Capacity | 13.2 L | 14.5l |
| Mileage | 32 kmpl | 31 kmpl |
Dimensions & Weight |
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| Kerb Weight | 184 kg | 176 kg |
| Seat Height | 788 mm | 825 mm |
Brakes & Suspension |
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| ABS | Dual Channel ABS | Dual Channel ABS |
| Front Brake | Disc Front 280 mm, Caliper - Front 2 Piston | 320 mm Disc with Radially Mounted Caliper |
| Front Suspension | Telescopic Forks, Ø 35 mm | WP APEX USD forks, 43 mm diameter, 200mm travel |
| Rear Brake | Disc Front 240 mm, Caliper - Rear 1Piston | 240 mm Disc with Floating Caliper |
| Rear Suspension | Twin Shock Absorber, Gas Filled with Adjustable Preload | WP APEX Monoshock, 205mm wheel travel Adjustable for Preload (10 steps) |
Tyres & Wheels |
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| Front Tyre | Alloy wheel - 90/90-18, 51P | 100/90 - 19 |
| Rear Tyre | Alloy Wheel - 120/80-17, 61P | 130/80 - 17 |
| Tyre Type | Tubeless | Tubeless |
| Wheel Type | Alloy | Alloy |
Features & Technology |
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| Headlight | — | LED Projector Low Beam -24W at 13.5V & High beam -30W at 13.5V + Auxiliary lamp |
Other Specifications |
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| Battery | MF Battery | 12 V, 8 AH MF battery |
| Bike Image 1 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/42voyagerred.webp | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/KTM-250-Adventure_White.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 | Ceramic White Electronic Orange |
| Cons | 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. | Suspension Isn’t Plush: According to BikeDekho, the suspension feels a bit stiff off-road and could have been softer for more comfort on rough terrain. BikeDekho Low-End Torque Limitations: Some users and reviewers mention a lack of strong low-end torque; highway overtaking may require downshifting. BikeDekho Wind Protection Issues: The tall windshield isn’t very effective in hot weather / high-speed wind, according to tests. No Full LED Headlight (in some markets): As per BikeDekho, the 250 Adventure lacks a full LED headlamp; uses halogen instead. Vibrations at High RPM: Owners report vibrations in the handlebar and footpegs beyond ~7,000 rpm. Pillion Comfort: According to user reviews, the pillion seat is not very comfortable during long rides. Plastic Quality: Some users feel plastic fit/finish could be better than expected for a premium ADV. Tyre Grip / Size: The rear tyre is reportedly narrow (~130 mm), which may limit grip for aggressive off-road riding. |
| Detailed Overview | 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. | The KTM 250 Adventure** has quickly become one of the most appealing entry-level ADV motorcycles in India, blending everyday practicality with weekend adventure capability. Designed as the younger sibling of the 390 Adventure, this 250cc machine strikes a balance between power, weight, features, and affordability, making it a perfect doorway into the world of adventure touring. At its heart lies a 249cc liquid-cooled, single-cylinder engine that delivers around 31 PS and 25 Nm, offering lively performance without being intimidating for newer riders. KTM has tuned the engine to be smooth and responsive, making it enjoyable both in city rides and on long stretches of open highways. The bike’s lightweight trellis frame plays a major role in its handling character, allowing it to feel nimble, stable, and confident whether navigating through traffic, leaning through corners, or tackling unpaved routes. The design of the KTM 250 Adventure is unmistakably KTM—sharp, aggressive, and purposeful. Its tall stance, wide handlebars, upright seating posture, and signature KTM styling make it look like a serious adventure motorcycle. Despite being a smaller displacement machine, the bike doesn’t compromise on rider comfort. The ergonomics are set up for long-distance touring, with a well-padded seat, relaxed riding triangle, and enough room for both rider and pillion. The inclusion of a 14.5-liter fuel tank gives the 250 Adventure a commendable riding range, which is highly appreciated during long trips where fuel stations may not be easily accessible. The suspension setup, featuring WP APEX USD forks and a rear monoshock, offers generous travel and inspires confidence on broken roads, off-road tracks, and gravel. While the suspension leans slightly towards the firmer side, it helps maintain stability and feedback, especially at higher speeds. One of the biggest highlights of the KTM 250 Adventure is its blend of premium technology. The motorcycle comes equipped with a bright 5-inch TFT display, Bluetooth connectivity, turn-by-turn navigation, and ride-friendly features such as Quickshifter+ and a power-assisted slipper clutch. Its dual-channel ABS, paired with an Off-Road ABS mode, enhances its capability by allowing controlled rear-wheel slip on rough surfaces. This makes it a friendly companion for beginners attempting off-road riding for the first time. The braking system, with a 320 mm front disc and 240 mm rear disc, offers strong and predictable stopping power. Despite being placed in a competitive segment, the KTM 250 Adventure sets itself apart with its adventure-ready character, confidence-inspiring dynamics, and the signature KTM performance DNA. In real-world use, the 250 Adventure shines as a well-rounded motorcycle that can handle daily commutes, highway touring, and light off-roading—all with impressive efficiency. It may not be the most powerful bike in the segment, but its ease of use, engaging riding feel, and solid feature list make it an attractive choice for riders stepping into the adventure world. For enthusiasts who want a capable, rugged, and modern ADV without stepping into higher price brackets, the KTM 250 Adventure stands out as a well-balanced and exciting option. |
| Expert Review | MotoAutiv Team | MotoAutiv Team |
| FAQ (Manual Override) | 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. | Q: What is the engine specification of the KTM 250 Adventure? A: It has a 249.07 cc single-cylinder, liquid-cooled DOHC engine. Q: How much power and torque does the 250 Adventure produce? A: The bike produces 31 PS of power and 25 Nm of torque (as per latest KTM spec). Q: What kind of brakes and ABS does it use? A: It comes with a 320 mm disc up front and 240 mm disc at the back, plus Bosch 2-channel ABS with an off-road ABS mode. Q: What is the suspension setup on the 250 Adventure? A: The bike features WP APEX 43 mm USD front forks and a WP APEX monoshock at the rear. Q: What is the seat height and ground clearance? A: The seat height is 825 mm (per KTM India). The ground clearance is 228 mm. Q: What is the fuel tank capacity? A: It has a 14.5-litre fuel tank. Q: What is the kerb weight of the bike? A: The kerb (wet) weight is about 176 kg. Q: What type of instrument cluster does it have? A: It uses a 5-inch TFT display. Q: Does the 250 Adventure support quickshifter and slipper clutch? A: Yes, it comes with Quickshifter+ and a power-assisted slipper (PASC) clutch. Q: Is the 250 Adventure good for off-road riding? A: Yes — it has off-road ABS mode, a 19″ front wheel, high ground clearance, and long-travel suspension, making it capable for light to moderate gravel or dirt trails. Q: What mileage can I expect from the KTM 250 Adventure? A: According to Autocar India, the mileage is around 38.12 km/l. Some real-world owners report lower numbers (e.g., 24–26 km/l) depending on riding style. |
| Fuel System | Electronic Fuel Injection | — |
| Price Variants | | 159000 | | 240010 |
| Pros | 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. | All-Road Versatility: As per KTM, it’s designed to work well both in city commuting and on light trail tracks. Light & Nimble: Compared to bigger ADVs, the small-displacement ADV feels easier to handle, especially around traffic. Improved Engine: The LC4-c 249cc engine is refined, smooth, and lighter, with optimized cylinder head and better gearbox. Fuel Range: 14 litre fuel tank + good fuel efficiency = decent touring range for its class. Good Suspension Travel: 200 mm travel at both ends (USD forks + monoshock) gives it good compliance over rough terrain. Off-Road Braking: Has a switchable off-road ABS mode enabling rear-wheel slip for more controlled braking on loose surfaces. Modern TFT & Connectivity: Comes with a 5-inch TFT display, Bluetooth via KTM Connect for navigation/music/call. Comfortable Ergonomics: Seat and riding posture are designed for both seated and standing positions, making long rides more manageable. Low Running Cost (Relative): Service cost is estimated to be lower than larger KTM ADVs since the engine and parts are smaller / more localized. |
| Transmission | 6-Speed | 6 Speed Manual |
