Quick Analysis
JAWA 42
11.5 pts
Unweighted: 15 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
TRIUMPH BONNEVILLE T120 BLACK
30.5 pts
Unweighted: 17 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
| Specification | ||
|---|---|---|
Engine Specifications |
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| Cooling System | — | Liquid cooled |
| Displacement | 294.7 cc | 1200 cc |
| Engine Type | — | SOHC, 270° crank angle parallel twin |
| Power | 27.3 PS | 80 PS / 78.9 bhp (58.8 kW) @ 6550 rpm |
| Torque | 26.8 Nm | 105 Nm @ 3500 rpm |
Performance & Efficiency |
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| Fuel Tank Capacity | 13.2 L | 14.5 L |
| Mileage | 32 kmpl | 21 kmpl |
Dimensions & Weight |
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| Kerb Weight | 184 kg | 236 kg |
| Seat Height | 788 mm | 790 mm |
Brakes & Suspension |
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| ABS | Dual Channel ABS | Dual channel |
| Front Brake | Disc Front 280 mm, Caliper - Front 2 Piston | Twin 310mm discs, Brembo 2 piston floating caliper, ABS |
| Front Suspension | Telescopic Forks, Ø 35 mm | Ø41mm cartridge forks |
| Rear Brake | Disc Front 240 mm, Caliper - Rear 1Piston | Single 255mm disc, Nissin 2 piston floating caliper, ABS |
| Rear Suspension | Twin Shock Absorber, Gas Filled with Adjustable Preload | Twin RSU’s, with pre-load adjustment |
Tyres & Wheels |
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| Front Tyre | Alloy wheel - 90/90-18, 51P | 100/90-18 |
| Rear Tyre | Alloy Wheel - 120/80-17, 61P | 150/70 R17 |
| Tyre Type | Tubeless | Tubeless |
| Wheel Type | Alloy | Alloy |
Features & Technology |
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| Headlight | — | DRLs LED |
Other Specifications |
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| Battery | MF Battery | — |
| Bike Image 1 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/42voyagerred.webp | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/bonneville_t120_black_my25_graphite_rhs_629px.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 | Jet Black Graphite / Matt Graphite |
| 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. | Weight and low-speed handling: The T120 is comparatively heavy and some riders find it less nimble in slow manoeuvres or tight traffic. Engine heat and comfort concerns in traffic: In stop-and-go city conditions, the engine and radiator heat can become noticeable and reduce comfort. Not a high-end sport performer: While competent, it lacks the aggressive performance or sport-bike handling of more focused machines, which may disappoint those seeking sharp cornering thrills. Premium cost and ownership aspects: As a premium modern-classic, it comes with higher pricing and possibly higher maintenance/spare costs compared to more mainstream bikes. |
| 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 **Triumph Bonneville T120 Black** is the darker, more sophisticated sibling of the classic Bonneville T120, combining retro British charm with modern performance and technology. It stands out as one of the most elegant motorcycles in Triumph’s Modern Classics lineup, appealing to riders who love timeless design but demand refined power, comfort, and reliability. As the name suggests, the T120 Black takes the iconic Bonneville silhouette and gives it a bold, stealthy personality with blacked-out finishes on the engine, exhaust, wheels, and mirrors, creating a striking visual statement that blends vintage heritage with modern attitude. At the heart of the T120 Black lies a **1,200cc liquid-cooled, 8-valve, parallel-twin engine** producing **80 PS at 6,550 rpm and 105 Nm of torque at 3,500 rpm**. This high-torque motor is designed for effortless power delivery, offering smooth acceleration and excellent mid-range performance. The 270-degree crank ensures a distinctive exhaust note and balanced feel, making every ride engaging yet relaxing. The five-speed gearbox is tuned for smooth shifts, and Triumph’s **ride-by-wire throttle system** ensures precise control across different riding conditions. The T120 Black feels at home both cruising on highways and navigating through urban traffic, offering a refined blend of power and composure that’s typical of Triumph engineering. In terms of design, the T120 Black is pure classic artistry. It retains the signature Bonneville styling — a sculpted fuel tank with knee pads, twin-pod analogue instruments, round LED headlamp, and wire-spoked wheels — but replaces all bright chrome elements with deep black finishes. This minimalistic yet bold design gives the motorcycle a premium, understated look that appeals to riders who prefer elegance over flash. The attention to detail is impeccable, from the brushed aluminum side panels to the stitched seat and neatly integrated modern components that don’t compromise the classic appeal. Modern technology seamlessly integrates into this classic framework. The T120 Black comes equipped with **dual riding modes (Rain and Road)**, **switchable traction control**, **dual-channel ABS**, **cruise control**, and **LED lighting**, offering a perfect balance between safety and sophistication. These features make the bike not just a nostalgic throwback but also a practical, capable modern-day roadster. The **twin-pod instrument cluster** maintains a vintage feel while providing useful digital readouts like fuel range, gear position, and trip details. Comfort and ride quality are standout aspects of the T120 Black. With a **low 790mm seat height**, a neutral riding position, and wide handlebars, it accommodates a wide range of riders comfortably. The **41mm front forks and twin rear shock absorbers** are tuned for balanced comfort and control, absorbing bumps effectively while maintaining composure on uneven roads. The lighter wheels improve agility, and the **Brembo front brakes** offer confident stopping power. Overall, the **Triumph Bonneville T120 Black** is a motorcycle that beautifully bridges the gap between past and present. It’s not about aggressive speed or sharp cornering — it’s about enjoying the pure, soulful experience of motorcycling with elegance and poise. It’s ideal for riders who appreciate craftsmanship, smooth performance, and timeless design. With its premium build, torquey engine, and modern features wrapped in classic style, the T120 Black remains one of the most desirable modern classics on the road today. |
| 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 Bonneville T120 Black? A: It features a 1,200 cc liquid-cooled, 8-valve, parallel-twin engine with a 270° crank, delivering around 80 PS at 6,550 rpm and 105 Nm of torque at 3,500 rpm. Q: What is the seat height and wet weight of the T120 Black? A: The seat height is approximately 790 mm and the wet weight is around 236 kg. Q: What is the fuel tank capacity and expected mileage of the T120 Black? A: The tank capacity is 14.5 litres, and official fuel consumption is listed as about 4.7 L/100km (~21 km/l) though real-world mileage may vary. Q: What features and rider aids are included on the T120 Black? A: Key features include LED lighting, twin-pod analogue instruments with LCD display, ride-by-wire throttle, switchable traction control, ABS, two riding modes (Road & Rain), and cruise control. Q: What is the ex-showroom price of the T120 Black in India (recent model)? A: The 2023 edition of the T120 Black has a starting ex-showroom price of approximately ₹ 11.09 lakh for the Jet Black colour, and about ₹ 11.39 lakh for the Sapphire Black/Matt Sapphire Black variant. Q: What wheels and suspension does the T120 Black come with? A: The bike uses 18″ front and 17″ rear wire-spoked wheels. Suspension is 41 mm cartridge front forks and twin RSU rear shocks with preload adjustment. Brakes include twin 310 mm front discs (with Brembo 2-piston floating calipers) and 255 mm rear disc. Q: Is the T120 Black suitable for both city rides and longer road trips? A: Yes — thanks to its torquey engine, comfortable ergonomics, manageable seat height, and modern features (such as cruise control and two riding modes) it’s well-suited for both everyday use and relaxed longer rides. Q: What are the major differences between the T120 Black edition and the standard T120? A: The Black edition retains the same mechanical and specification elements as the standard T120, but offers a darker styling theme (blacked-out engine covers, black rims, black exhaust, dark trims) and sometimes exclusive colour options and finishes. |
| Fuel System | Electronic Fuel Injection | — |
| Price Variants | | 159000 | BLACK |1235000 |
| 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. | Torquey, refined engine: The 1,200 cc parallel twin delivers strong mid-range torque and smooth power delivery, making the bike easy to ride and relaxed in every-day use. Excellent build quality & classic styling: With its retro aesthetics (spoke wheels, twin-pod instruments, brushed metal finishes) combined with modern touches, it stands out and carries good craftsmanship. Good ergonomics for many riders: Its relatively low seat height (~790 mm) and relaxed upright riding posture make it accessible and comfortable for commuting or relaxed rides. Modern features despite classic looks: It includes ride-by-wire throttle, dual riding modes, switchable traction control, ABS, and USB charging point — all unintrusive yet present. |
| Transmission | 6-Speed | 6-speed |
