Quick Analysis
JAWA 42
25.5 pts
Unweighted: 19 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
OLA Roadster X
8.5 pts
Unweighted: 10 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
| Specification | ||
|---|---|---|
Engine Specifications |
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| Displacement | 294.7 cc | — |
| Power | 27.3 PS | 7 kw |
| Torque | 26.8 Nm | 58 Nm |
Performance & Efficiency |
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| Fuel Tank Capacity | 13.2 L | — |
| Mileage | 32 kmpl | — |
Dimensions & Weight |
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| Kerb Weight | 184 kg | 127 kg |
| Seat Height | 788 mm | 777 mm |
Brakes & Suspension |
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| ABS | Dual Channel ABS | — |
| Front Brake | Disc Front 280 mm, Caliper - Front 2 Piston | Drum 2 Piston Brake by Wire |
| Front Suspension | Telescopic Forks, Ø 35 mm | Telescopic Fork |
| Rear Brake | Disc Front 240 mm, Caliper - Rear 1Piston | Drum |
| Rear Suspension | Twin Shock Absorber, Gas Filled with Adjustable Preload | Twin Shock Absorbers |
Tyres & Wheels |
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| Front Tyre | Alloy wheel - 90/90-18, 51P | 80/100 - 18 |
| Rear Tyre | Alloy Wheel - 120/80-17, 61P | 100/90 - 17 |
| Tyre Type | Tubeless | Tubeless |
| Wheel Type | Alloy | Alloy |
Features & Technology |
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| Headlight | — | LED |
Other Specifications |
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| Battery | MF Battery | — |
| Battery Capacity (kWh) | — | 2.5 |
| Battery Chemistry | — | Li-ion |
| Bike Image 1 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/42voyagerred.webp | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/roadsterxplusindustrialsilver-1.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 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/roadsterxplusstellarblue-1.webp |
| Bike Image 3 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/42odysseyblack.webp | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/roadsterxplusceramicwhite-1.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 | — |
| Charging Time (Fast) | — | 5.9 h |
| 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 Metallic Black Pine Green Industrial Silver Stellar Blue |
| 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. | Range figures are optimistic and real-world numbers may be significantly lower depending on riding style. Absence of dual-channel ABS on all variants could be a drawback for safety-focused buyers. Charging times can feel long if you do not have access to fast-charging infrastructure. Rear twin-shock suspension may feel firm for lighter riders on bad roads. Limited storage space compared to some EV scooters and urban-focused EVs. Fit and finish may vary between batches since the model lineup is very new. Battery degradation over years is still an unknown factor for early buyers. |
| 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. | Riding the Roadster X feels like stepping into the future of everyday two-wheeler transport — silent, zippy, and stripped of the familiar fuss of fuel, gears, and choke. At its heart lies an electric mid-drive motor that quietly transforms the usual “kick-start, wait and roar” ritual into “plug in, twist throttle, go.” Depending on which battery pack you go for, the Roadster X offers a mix of convenience and versatility. Variants come with battery capacities such as 2.5 kWh, 3.5 kWh, 4.5 kWh — and at the top end under the “Roadster X+” badge, there’s an option with a beefy 9.1 kWh pack. For a regular 4.5 kWh build, the motor delivers about 7 kW of power, producing sufficient torque to handle city traffic and suburban roads with ease. On the more powerful 9.1 kWh + 11 kW variant, punch increases noticeably — you get brisk acceleration, and the scooter feels more alive when you twist the throttle. In fact, the top-end version claims a 0–40 km/h sprint in around 2.7 seconds, which is enough to feel lively when pulling out into traffic or overtaking slower vehicles. The top speed of the more powerful variant is around 125 km/h — not just “scooter- slow,” but enough for comfortable highway cruising when roads are decent (and legal). Range is one of the parts where Roadster X tries to impress. With the 4.5 kWh battery, a claimed “IDC” range hovers around 252 km. With the 9.1 kWh battery, the company goes so far as to quote up to 501 km on a full charge. That’s a headline number that would make any commuter hopeful — in real-world riding, especially city commutes with frequent start-stops or occasional highway stretches, you’ll likely get lower. But the big battery still gives you breathing room: occasional long rides, fewer charging stops, and a sense of freedom without obsessing over where the next plug point is. On roads — especially the sometimes rough, uneven roads of many Indian towns and cities — the Roadster X is set up thoughtfully. It uses a traditional telescopic front fork and twin-shock rear suspension, a tried-and-tested combo that balances comfort and stability. In everyday riding — potholes, speed-breakers, unpredictable patches — this setup might not feel like a plush cruiser, but it tends to handle typical urban/suburban unevenness without harshness. The frame — a double-cradle steel chassis built for strength — helps maintain composure, even when roads get unpredictable. Maneuverability is key in daily commuting and tight traffic, and Roadster X is more nimble than bulky bikes. Its dimensions (wheelbase, saddle height, overall width) give it relative agility compared to bigger motorcycles. The weight is modest enough that dipping through traffic, parking, or navigating narrow lanes doesn’t demand excessive effort. In a place with mixed traffic — scooters, bicycles, pedestrians, rickshaws — this translates to easier life. Stopping and safety – often underrated — get decent attention. The higher variants come with a front disc brake (plus rear drum), and a “brake-by-wire” system that, paired with what the designers intended, blends mechanical and regenerative braking intelligently. For city speeds, that gives enough braking bite and some confidence in sudden stops or unpredictable traffic movement. On the user-experience and convenience front, Roadster X feels modern. The instrumentation is a 4.3-inch colour LCD display — clean, digital, and likely easier to read than older analog-plus-LED clusters. There are selectable ride-modes: Eco, Normal, and Sports — letting you prioritize efficiency, balanced riding, or performance depending on mood or road. It supports smart features: connectivity via app, ability to locate charging stations, energy-insight readouts (helpful to track how your riding style affects range), and even reverse-assist (rare for two-wheelers, and useful when maneuvering in tight parking spots). On-board LEDs for headlamp and taillight + tubeless alloy wheels add to modern EV-two-wheeler sensibility. For folks thinking about cost — one of the main reasons people look at electric bikes — Roadster X tries to keep things reasonable. The entry-level variant starts at a base ex-showroom price that’s very competitive compared to many internal-combustion bikes, while the higher variants offer a compelling value if you plan to ride regularly and cover good km. For someone commuting daily, doing errands, or even occasional longer rides — especially if fuel and maintenance costs matter — Roadster X presents a tempting proposition of “silent, no-fuss, and economical as long as you have access to charging.” Riding the Roadster X in real life, you’d likely notice a few things. Around town with mixed-speed traffic and lots of stops, the instant torque and smooth power delivery make riding almost effortless — no gear shifts, no vibrations, no noise. Traffic lights, roundabouts, slow-moving vehicles: you glide through them without the jerks or lurches typical of small-petrol bikes. On decent stretches of road or highway, the top-end variant opens up, allowing confident overtakes and stable cruising. Of course, it’s not a luxury or premium superbike — but that’s not its aim. What it aims for — and largely delivers — is a practical, cost-efficient electric commuter/mobility bike that gives you the freedom to move without worrying much about fuel, frequent maintenance, or noise. For city dwellers, young riders, daily commuters, or people wanting a sensible transition toward electric two-wheelers, Roadster X could well represent the “sweet spot.” |
| 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 battery options are available? A: Roadster X comes with 2.5 kWh, 3.5 kWh, 4.5 kWh, and for the top-end “Roadster X+” also a 9.1 kWh battery option. Q: What is the motor power? A: The standard variants get a 7 kW motor, whereas the top-end Roadster X+ uses an 11 kW motor. Q: What range can I expect per full charge? A: Depending on the variant: up to about 252 km with the 4.5 kWh battery, and up to 501 km with the 9.1 kWh battery (as claimed). Q: What is the top speed? A: The top speed varies: lower-capacity variants are rated around 105–118 km/h; the top-end variant claims up to 125 km/h. Q: What is the acceleration (0–40 km/h)? A: For entry-level battery versions it’s around 3.4 seconds; for higher battery/motor versions it drops to about 3.1 seconds; the top-end variant does 0–40 km/h in about 2.7 seconds. Q: What kind of display and electronics does it have? A: It features a 4.3-inch colour LCD display powered by the company’s software (MoveOS 5), and supports features like ride-modes (Eco/Normal/Sport), navigation, advanced regenerative braking, cruise-control, tyre-pressure monitoring, over-the-air updates, and app connectivity. Q: What kind of suspension and chassis does it use? A: Front suspension is telescopic fork, rear uses twin-shock adjustable rear suspension; chassis is built on a sturdy double-cradle steel frame for torsional rigidity. Q: What are the brakes and tyre specifications? A: It uses a front disc brake (on certain variants) along with brake-by-wire + regenerative braking. Wheels are alloy with tubeless tyres. Q: What is the approximate kerb weight and ground clearance (for 4.5 kWh variant)? A: Kerb weight is about 130.7 kg and ground clearance is around 180 mm. Q: What is the ex-showroom price range? A: Entry-level versions start around ₹74,999, mid variants about ₹84,999, and higher variants around ₹99,999 (ex-showroom). |
| Fuel System | Electronic Fuel Injection | Electric |
| Price Variants | | 159000 | X+ | 189999 X | 124999 |
| 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. | Offers multiple battery options, letting buyers choose between affordability and long-range practicality. Strong motor performance, especially on the higher variants, giving quick acceleration and confident highway cruising. Modern, muscular street-bike design that stands out among commuter EV motorcycles. Smooth ride quality thanks to a stable double-cradle frame and well-tuned suspension setup. Regenerative braking adds extra range and reduces brake-wear in city traffic. Packed with features like ride modes, cruise control, navigation, and app connectivity. Good ground clearance for Indian road conditions. Relatively lightweight for an electric motorcycle, making it easy to handle in daily commuting. Competitive pricing for the hardware and features provided. |
| Transmission | 6-Speed | Automatic |
