Quick Analysis
JAWA 42
12.0 pts
Unweighted: 16 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
TRIUMPH BONNEVILLE T120 BLACK
26.5 pts
Unweighted: 15 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
| Specification | ||
|---|---|---|
Engine Specifications |
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| Cooling System | Liquid Cooled | Liquid cooled |
| Displacement | 294.7 cc | 1200 cc |
| Engine Type | Single Cylinder, 4 Stroke, Liquid Cooled, DOHC | 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 | 33 kmpl | 21 kmpl |
Dimensions & Weight |
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| Kerb Weight | 184 | 236 |
| Seat Height | 788 | 790 |
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/Spokes wheel - 90/90-18, 51P | 100/90-18 |
| Rear Tyre | Alloy/Spokes Wheel - 120/80-17, 61P | 150/70 R17 |
| Tyre Type | Tubeless | Tubeless |
| Wheel Type | Alloy/Spokes | Alloy |
Features & Technology |
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| Headlight | LED | 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/2025/12/Jet-Black.avif |
| 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 | #F5F5F5 Voyager Red | #8B1E2D Asteroid Grey | #6B6F76 Odyssey Black | #0F0F10 Nebula Blue | #1F3A5F Celestial Copper Matte | #A65E2E Orion Red Matte | #6E1A1F Sirius White Matte | #EDEDED All Star Black Matte | #1C1C1C Cosmic Rock Dual Tone | #5A4A3F Celestial Copper Matte Dual Tone | #B87333 Starship Blue Dual Tone | #2E4A7D Infinity Black Matte Dual Tone | #2B2B2B Cosmic Carbon Dual Tone | #3A3A3A Ivory | #F8F1D4 | Jet Black | #0A0A0A Graphite and Matt Graphite | #3A3A3A |
| 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 is built around a 294cc, single-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine that produces around 27 bhp and 27 Nm of torque. It uses a 6-speed gearbox, and the power delivery feels focused more on low and mid-range speeds rather than high-speed riding. The engine is paired with a fuel injection system, which helps in smoother throttle response during regular use. The bike also comes with a double cradle frame, which forms the base of its structure and supports its overall balance on the road. In terms of dimensions, the bike has a seat height of around 788 mm, which makes it accessible for a wide range of riders. The kerb weight is close to 182 kg, depending on the variant, and the fuel tank capacity stands at 13.2 litres. These numbers place it in line with other motorcycles in the same category. The riding position is set up with a slightly forward-leaning handlebar and mid-set foot pegs, which creates a neutral stance for both city rides and occasional longer trips. The suspension setup includes telescopic forks at the front and twin shock absorbers at the rear. This setup is quite common in this segment and is tuned to handle everyday road conditions. The bike rides on either spoke wheels with tube tyres or alloy wheels with tubeless tyres, depending on the variant chosen. Wheel size remains consistent, with a 18-inch front and 17-inch rear combination, which affects the way the bike handles uneven roads and corners. Braking duties are handled by disc brakes on both ends. The front gets a 280 mm disc, while the rear has a 240 mm disc. The bike is available in both single-channel and dual-channel ABS options, again depending on the variant. This gives buyers a choice based on their budget and requirement. The braking setup is designed to offer controlled stopping without being overly sharp or aggressive. On the feature side, the Jawa 42 keeps things simple. It uses a single-pod instrument cluster that shows basic information like speed, fuel level and other essential indicators. Lighting is mostly halogen-based, though some variants may include LED elements for the tail lamp. The overall feature list is not very extensive, and the focus remains on core riding functions rather than added technology. The bike is available in multiple colour options, including both single-tone and dual-tone finishes. Some colours are limited to higher variants that come with alloy wheels and dual-channel ABS, while simpler colours are offered with spoke wheels and single-channel ABS. This variation in colours and variants also affects the overall pricing and positioning of the bike within its segment. | The Triumph Bonneville T120 Black is a modern classic bike that mixes an old-school design with updated mechanical parts. It runs on a 1200 cc parallel-twin engine that makes around 80 PS and 105 Nm, paired with a 6-speed gearbox. The engine is tuned for strong low-end and mid-range pull, so in daily riding you don’t need to change gears too often, whether you are in city traffic or cruising on the highway. It is not meant for aggressive riding, but more for smooth and steady use. The bike uses a steel frame along with conventional front forks and twin rear shock absorbers. This setup is mainly for comfort, so it works well on normal roads, although sharp bumps and bad patches can still be felt. It gets disc brakes at both ends with dual-channel ABS, which gives controlled and predictable braking. The 18-inch front and 17-inch rear wheels also add to its stable and planted feel while riding. In terms of size, the T120 Black is on the heavier side at around 236 kg, which can be noticeable at low speeds and while handling it in tight spaces. The seat height is about 790 mm, so most riders can manage it easily. It comes with a 14.5-litre fuel tank, and in real use, mileage usually stays between 18 to 22 km/l. Ground clearance is around 140 mm, which is fine for regular roads but requires slowing down on bigger speed breakers. For features, the bike keeps things simple. It has a twin-pod semi-digital display that shows basic information like speed, fuel level, gear position, and trip details. It also includes riding modes, traction control, and a torque-assist clutch, but there is no focus on advanced connectivity. Overall, the T120 Black is set up for relaxed riding with simple features, where the focus stays on smooth engine performance and a straightforward riding experience. |
| Expert Review | The Jawa 42 carries a design that draws from older Jawa motorcycles, but the finish and small details give it a slightly updated feel without changing the overall character. The riding position is upright and comfortable for daily use, with an easy seat height, though the seat can feel firm after longer rides. Its 294cc liquid-cooled engine responds quickly at low speeds, making city riding smooth, but it starts to feel a bit stressed when pushed harder on open roads. The gearbox works well most of the time, although mild vibrations can be noticed at higher revs. Handling is simple and predictable, with stable straight-line behaviour, while the suspension feels slightly stiff over rough patches. Braking setup varies across variants, and while it does the job, the feel at the lever is something riders may take time to get used to., 3.8, MotoAutiv Team | In India, the Triumph Bonneville T120 Black fits more into the category of a relaxed, easy-going motorcycle rather than something built for speed. It runs on a 1200 cc twin-cylinder engine that produces strong pull at low speeds, so you don’t have to keep changing gears in traffic or while cruising on highways. The seating position is straight and comfortable, but the overall weight of the bike is quite noticeable, especially in slow city riding or while handling it in tight spaces. The suspension setup is tuned for a softer feel, which works fine on normal roads, but sharp bumps can still be felt. It gets disc brakes on both ends with ABS, which offer steady and controlled braking. The bike also includes features like riding modes, traction control, and a simple digital-analogue display, without going too heavy on electronics. In Indian conditions, it makes more sense for calm rides and weekend use, as daily usage in traffic can feel demanding due to its size and weight., 4.1, 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 ₹ 11.85 lakh. 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 high torque 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 | Fuel Injection |
| Price Variants | Vega White Single Channel Spoke | 159431 Voyager Red Single Channel Spoke | 161275 Aestroid Grey Single Channel Spoke | 161275 Odysse Black Single Channel Spoke | 161275 Vega White Dual Channel Spoke | 168650 Asteroid Grey Dual channel ABS Spoke wheels | 170493 Odyssey Black Dual channel ABS Spoke wheels | 170493 Voyager Red Dual channel ABS Spoke wheels | 184942 Ivory | 184950 Sirius White Matte Dual channel ABS Alloy wheels | 189142 Cosmic Rock Dual channel ABS Alloy wheels Dual Tone | 192942 Celestial Copper Matte Dual channel ABS Alloy wheels | 195142 Nebula Blue Dual channel ABS Alloy wheels | 195142 Starship Blue Dual channel ABS Alloy wheels Dual Tone | 195142 Celestial Copper Matte Dual channel ABS Alloy wheels Dual Tone | 195142 All Star Black Matte Dual channel ABS Alloy wheels | 198142 Infinity Black Matte Dual channel ABS Alloy wheels Dual Tone | 198142 Cosmic Carbon Dual channel ABS Alloy wheels | 198142 Orion Red Matte Dual channel ABS Alloy wheels | 198142 | |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. |
| Starter | Self Start Only | Self Start |
| Transmission | 6-Speed | 6-speed Manual |
