Quick Analysis
JAWA 42
27.5 pts
Unweighted: 25 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresOther
KTM 50 SX
11.0 pts
Unweighted: 6 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresOther
| Specification | ||
|---|---|---|
Engine Specifications |
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| Displacement | 294.7 cc | 49.9 cc |
| Engine Type | — | 1-cylinder, 2-stroke engine |
| Power | 27.3 PS | 5.3 bhp @ 11500 rpm |
| Torque | 26.8 Nm | 5.2 Nm @ 7500 rpm |
Performance & Efficiency |
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| Fuel Tank Capacity | 13.2 L | 2.3 L |
| Mileage | 32 kmpl | 30 kmpl |
Dimensions & Weight |
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| Kerb Weight | 184 kg | 41 kg |
| Seat Height | 788 mm | 653 mm |
Brakes & Suspension |
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| ABS | Dual Channel ABS | — |
| Front Brake | Disc Front 280 mm, Caliper - Front 2 Piston | Disc 160 mm |
| Front Suspension | Telescopic Forks, Ø 35 mm | XACT 35 WP Upside-Down fork, Ø 35 mm |
| Rear Brake | Disc Front 240 mm, Caliper - Rear 1Piston | Disc 160 mm |
| Rear Suspension | Twin Shock Absorber, Gas Filled with Adjustable Preload | XACT WP mono shock |
Tyres & Wheels |
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| Front Tyre | Alloy wheel - 90/90-18, 51P | 60/100 - 12 |
| Rear Tyre | Alloy Wheel - 120/80-17, 61P | 2.75 - 10 |
| Tyre Type | Tubeless | Tubed |
| Wheel Type | Alloy | Spoke |
Other Specifications |
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| Battery | MF Battery | — |
| Bike Image 1 | 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 | 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. | High Maintenance: As a 2-stroke engine, it requires frequent servicing and tuning. Small Fuel Tank: Limited capacity means more frequent refills. Kick-Start Only: No electric start, which can be tricky for very young riders. Limited Power for Older Kids: The 50cc engine may not be enough as the rider grows or becomes more skilled. Sensitive to Tuning: Owners report issues like fouling spark plugs or needing to frequently re-jet the carb: “Used to run great … then started fowling plugs … Moved to a 95 main jet … About 15 kph slower …” Parts Cost & Availability: As a race‑oriented bike, some parts can be expensive or harder to source for older models. |
| 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 50 SX is a purpose-built mini motocross bike, tailored primarily for very young and beginner racers who want to get a genuine motocross experience without jumping straight to bigger bikes. It’s more than just a “toy” — KTM has packed serious race-bike DNA into this 50cc model, making it a standout choice for youth motocross training and competitive racing. At the heart of the 50 SX is a 49.9 cc single-cylinder 2-stroke engine, which delivers a punchy yet manageable power output. According to KTM’s specs, this engine is paired with a centrifugal automatic clutch, meaning there’s no manual clutch lever to worry about — the clutch engages automatically, which is ideal for young riders still building coordination and confidence. The engine uses a Seletra 2p D36 system for fuel delivery (on some models), which helps in precise tuning and reliable performance. KTM has thoughtfully designed the chassis for both strength and agility. The frame is made from chromoly steel, which keeps it light but sturdy. The overall design ensures that the bike is highly maneuverable, making it easier for young riders to learn balance and control on a real race-ready structure. The 50 SX isn’t just about motor and frame — it comes with serious suspension too: a WP XACT 35 mm upside-down fork at the front and a WP mono‑shock at the rear.The front suspension travel is around 200 mm and the rear is close to 190 mm, giving enough give for track bumps and jumps. In terms of ergonomics, the seat height is just 653 mm, making it very accessible for younger riders. Ground clearance is around 233 mm, giving the bike enough space to handle uneven terrain without scraping too much.The fuel tank capacity is modest — 2.3 liters — but that’s more than enough for short motocross sessions that young riders typically do. For braking, KTM hasn’t compromised: the 50 SX is equipped with disc brakes both front and rear, each 160 mm in size. This provides good stopping power and control, which is very important for safety and learning advanced braking techniques. On the wheels front, the bike uses spoke wheels, keeping things light and rugged for off-road racing. Despite its small size, the 50 SX is very race-focused. The frame has been redesigned to mimic the flex and rigidity characteristics of full-size MX bikes. The new frame also comes with frame protectors, which help reduce damage in case of falls — a common occurrence when young riders are learning. The handlebars are lightweight aluminum, with a bend that suits smaller riders, and the footpegs are designed to give a solid grip even when things get muddy or rough. KTM also includes power-reduction kits in its parts catalog for the 50 SX. These kits let parents or coaches limit the power output while the rider is still learning, which is a smart way to scale the bike’s performance to the rider’s ability — and once they’re better, the full power can be unlocked. When it comes to reliability, the 50 SX has a liquid cooling system for better thermal management. The engine’s central crankshaft design helps in keeping the mass well-balanced, which contributes to smoother handling. As for maintenance, like all 2-stroke motorcycles, it does need regular care — but KTM has made key parts (like the clutch) durable, using a reinforced clutch basket for longevity. Overall, the KTM 50 SX is a very well-engineered youth motocross bike that brings real race performance to younger riders. It balances power, weight, and control in a way that helps beginners grow into serious racers. Whether for track training, competitive racing, or just building early riding skills, it’s absolutely one of the top choices in the mini-moto world. |
| 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 capacity of the KTM 50 SX? A: It has a 49.9 cc 2-stroke engine. Q: What kind of transmission does it use? A: The KTM 50 SX has a single-speed automatic transmission. Q: How is the KTM 50 SX started? A: It uses a kick-start. Q: Does it have a clutch? A: Yes — a centrifugal (adjustable) clutch, so the rider doesn’t have to use a manual clutch lever. Q: What is the fuel tank capacity? A: The fuel tank capacity is 2.3 litres. Q: What is the seat height? A: The seat height is 653 mm. Q: What is the weight of the bike? A: The dry (or “without fuel”) weight is about 43.5 kg for recent models. Q: What kind of suspension does the KTM 50 SX use? A: It comes with WP XACT suspension — a 35 mm upside-down fork in the front and a WP mono-shock at the rear. Q: What brakes does it have? A: It has disc brakes both at the front and rear, each 160 mm. Q: What power does the KTM 50 SX produce? A: The KTM 50 SX produces around 5.3–5.4 PS at ~11,500 rpm. Q: Is the KTM 50 SX road legal? A: No — it's designed for off-road / motocross use, not for street-legal riding. Q: What kind of clutch does it have for young riders? A: It uses a centrifugal clutch, which automatically engages at high RPM — good for beginners or young riders who don’t manually operate a clutch. Q: What is the ground clearance? A: The ground clearance is 233 mm. Q: Is there a guarantee or warranty for KTM 50 SX? A: According to specs, it has a 2-year standard warranty. Q: What is the typical maintenance challenge or issue to watch for? A: Some owners report carburetor tuning issues |
| Fuel System | Electronic Fuel Injection | — |
| Price Variants | | 159000 | | 475000 |
| 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. | Very Lightweight: Makes it easy for young riders to handle and build confidence. Automatic Transmission: The centrifugal clutch and automatic gearbox simplify riding for beginners. Adjustable Suspension: High-quality WP fork and shock can be tuned to rider weight and track conditions. Racing‑Oriented Build: Frame and components are derived from KTM’s full-size SX range, giving a race-ready feel. Power-Reduction Kits Available: Helps beginners by limiting power until they’re ready for more. Good Cooling: Liquid cooling ensures the engine stays healthy even under hard off‑road use. Tool-Free Adjustability: Seat height, suspension, and other parts can be adjusted without special tools. |
| Transmission | 6-Speed | Manual |
