Quick Analysis
JAWA 42 J
8.0 pts
Unweighted: 7 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
TRIUMPH TIGER 1200 RALLY EXPLORER
29.5 pts
Unweighted: 16 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
| Specification | ||
|---|---|---|
Engine Specifications |
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| Cooling System | — | Liquid-cooled |
| Displacement | 334 cc | 1160 cc |
| Engine Type | Single Cylinder, 4 Stroke, Liquid Cooled, DOHC | 12 valve, DOHC, inline 3-cylinder |
| Power | 29.17 PS | 150PS / 148bhp (110.4kW) @ 9,000rpm (100PS rain mode) |
| Torque | 29.62 Nm | 130 Nm @ 7,000 rpm |
Performance & Efficiency |
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| Fuel Tank Capacity | 12 L | 30 L |
| Mileage | 30 kmpl | 18kmpl |
Dimensions & Weight |
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| Kerb Weight | 184 kg | 262kg (90% fuel - mass in running order) kg |
| Seat Height | 790 mm | Adjustable 875/895 mm |
Brakes & Suspension |
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| ABS | Dual Channel ABS | Dual Channel |
| Front Brake | Disc With Floating Caliper 320 mm | Brembo M4.30 Stylema monoblock radial calipers, OC-ABS, twin 320mm floating discs. Magura HC1 span adjustable radial master cylinder with separate reservoir. |
| Front Suspension | Telescopic Forks, Ø 41 mm | Showa 49mm, semi-active damping USD forks. 220mm travel. |
| Rear Brake | Disc With Floating Caliper 240 mm | Brembo single piston caliper, OC-ABS, single 282mm disc. Rear master cylinder with remote reservoir. |
| Rear Suspension | Twin Shock Absorber With 5-step Adjustable Pre-load | 220mm wheel travel Showa semi-active damping monoshock, with automatic electronic preload adjustment and New Active Preload Reduction feature. Depending on the combined weight of rider, pillion and luggage, this feature could lower the riding height by up to 20mm when the motorcycle comes to a standstill, offering greater ease and confidence. |
Tyres & Wheels |
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| Front Tyre | 100/90-18, 56H | Metzeler Karoo Street, 90/90-21 (M/C 54V TL) |
| Rear Tyre | 140/70-17, 66H | Metzeler Karoo Street, 150/70R18 (M/C 70V TL) |
| Tyre Type | Tube | Tubeless |
| Wheel Type | Spoke | 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/2025/11/42fjdeepblackmatteblackclad.webp | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/1.png |
| Bike Image 2 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/42fjmystiquecopper.webp | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/3.png |
| Bike Image 3 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/42fjcosmobluematte.webp | — |
| Color Options | Mystique Copper Deep Black Matte Black Clad Aurora Green Matte Deep Black Matte Red Clad Cosmo Blue Matte | Jet Black Matt Khaki Matt Sandstorm |
| Cons | Limited modern features – Lacks advanced electronics, ride modes, or connectivity options. Reliability concerns – Some owners report minor mechanical or electrical issues. After-sales and parts availability – Service centers may be limited in some areas, and spare parts can be hard to get. Comfort limitations for long rides – Pillion seat and luggage capacity are limited; not ideal for long-distance touring. Moderate fuel efficiency – Real-world mileage may be lower than expected in heavy traffic or aggressive riding. | Tall seat & significant weight: With a seat height around 875-895 mm and a wet weight around 250+ kg, it can be challenging for shorter riders or in slow-speed manoeuvres. High acquisition & running costs: Being a premium adventure model with top-tier components, purchase price and maintenance costs are high compared to more basic ADV bikes. Some interface/usability quirks: Reviews and owner feedback highlight issues like dashboard/menu complexity, windscreen adjustment problems and throttle snatchiness in certain modes. While very capable off-road, still more road-biased than a dedicated enduro: The size, weight and tyre/suspension setup favour road touring and moderate off‐road rather than hardcore trail riding. |
| Detailed Overview | Riding the Jawa 42 FJ feels like you’re commanding a machine that strikes a rare balance — it’s rugged without being raw, modern without giving up its classic soul. Under its skin lives a 334 cc, single-cylinder, liquid-cooled DOHC engine that’s tuned to generate about 29.17 PS of power and 29.62 Nm of torque. That power figure isn’t about wild acceleration; it’s about usable, confident torque right in the midrange — the kind that lets you surge past slow-moving traffic or carry speed comfortably once you’re out on open roads. Because the engine is liquid-cooled, it resists overheating even in stop-go traffic or during longer rides, which is a big plus for both city commuters and weekend travellers. Paired with that engine is a 6-speed constant-mesh gearbox, which gives the 42 FJ a flexibility that many retro-inspired bikes lack. In the city, lower gears help you navigate tight turns and slow zones; crank into the higher gears on the highway, and the bike relaxes into a smooth, sustained rhythm — it doesn’t feel stressed or out of breath. The assist-and-slipper clutch makes downshifts lighter and safer, especially when you’re slowing down hard or tackling steep terrain. This kind of setup means you don’t have to wrestle with clutch levers constantly — the bike does a lot of the work for you. On the road, the frame’s double-cradle design gives the bike a stable backbone. The front suspension is handled by telescopic forks (41 mm), while the rear uses twin shock absorbers with 5-step preload adjustment. In real-world terms, that means potholes and rough patches don’t slam into your spine — there’s just enough give to absorb most imperfections without turning the ride into a mushy mess. Once the road smooths out, the brakes — dual disc with floating calipers and dual-channel ABS — give strong, predictable bite. You feel secure braking hard, even when you’re leaning into a turn or coming down from highway speed. The motorcycle’s dimensions also contribute to its confidence-in-motion: a wheelbase of 1,440 mm gives it stability, while a seat height of 790 mm makes it accessible for many riders without feeling too compact. Ground clearance sits at 178 mm, which helps when you’re navigating over uneven terrain or clearing speed breakers — something very relevant in real-world road conditions. At a kerb weight of around 184 kg, it’s not feather-light, but once moving, it feels planted rather than ponderous. In city traffic, the weight is manageable; on highways, it adds to the sense that the bike is confident and steady. Fueling comes from injection, and though the claimed tank capacity is 12 litres, the real-world balance likely leans toward practicality over long-range touring. For regular commuting and moderate weekend rides, that tank paired with the efficient engine should work well, though it may not give you motorway-range without a stop. Riders who expect to do long-haul touring might need to plan fuel stops more carefully. The wheels are wrapped in road-friendly tyres (100/90-18 up front, 140/70-17 at the rear), which, along with the disc-brake setup, reinforce good grip and handling. The brakes feel responsive — not grabby, but confident. That’s exactly what you want when your speed is building or when traffic messes up your smooth ride. Electronics on the 42 FJ are minimal but practical: there’s a fully digital instrument cluster that shows speed, gear position, fuel, and trip details — all clearly visible so you don’t have to squint or guess. No flashy connectivity gimmicks, but the essentials are covered well. The exhaust comes in a twin layout, which gives the FJ a good exhaust note — neither too loud to be annoying in residential areas, nor too soft to sound uninspiring. In terms of design, the 42 FJ stands out. The brushed aluminium cladding on the tank gives it a distinctive, premium look. It’s not just retro for retro’s sake — the styling feels purposeful, with a bold, modern twist. Colours range from deep matte shades to dual-tone finishes, giving riders a variety of looks to express themselves. Price-wise, the ex-showroom figure starts at around ₹1.93 lakhs and can go to about ₹2.2 lakhs depending on variant and location. Riding one means committing to a machine that’s not just about show: you’re getting a bike with real substance — capable of daily commuting, capable of enjoyable weekend rides, and capable of delivering a retro-modern experience without too many compromises. Overall, the Jawa 42 FJ feels like a well-rounded partner on two wheels. It doesn’t demand constant attention or aggressive riding, but it rewards smooth, thoughtful throttle control and confident road use. For someone looking for a neo-classic bike that’s equally at home in city traffic and on open highways, it’s a choice that marries character with practicality. | The Triumph Tiger 1200 Rally Explorer is the ultimate expression of Triumph’s large-capacity adventure touring range, engineered to blend long-distance comfort with real all-road capability. At its heart lies an impressive 1,160 cc liquid-cooled, inline-three cylinder engine producing about 150 PS at 9,000 rpm and 130 Nm of torque at 7,000 rpm. This high-capacity powerplant, combined with a shaft drive and slip-/assist clutch, delivers refined performance across a variety of terrain—whether you’re cruising at highway speeds, carrying pillion and luggage, or navigating challenging gravel stretches. Design and ergonomics are tailored to serious adventure-riding. The Rally Explorer is built on a tubular steel frame with forged aluminium outriggers, and rides on tubeless spoked wheels sized 21 inch at the front and 18 inch at the rear, equipped with Metzeler Karoo Street tyres for true all-road functionality. It uses a semi-active Showa suspension setup with 220 mm of travel at both ends, and features an electronic active preload reduction system that lowers the seat height by up to 20 mm when stopped, increasing rider confidence. The seat height is adjustable around 875-895 mm, and the wet weight is approximately 262 kg (90% fuel). The fuel tank holds a generous 30 litres, supporting extended touring range without constant refuelling stops. Technology and features are in abundance—this isn’t just a rugged bike; it’s a sophisticated machine. The Rally Explorer comes with a 7-inch full-colour TFT display with “My Triumph” connectivity, six riding modes (Rain, Road, Sport, Off-Road, Off-Road Pro, Rider), cornering ABS and traction control, tyre-pressure monitoring system, adaptive cornering LED lights, heated rider and pillion seats, blind-spot radar (rear) and cruise control. The braking hardware is top-tier, with Brembo Stylema calipers on the front twin 320 mm discs and a 282 mm disc at the rear. All of this makes the Rally Explorer a bike equally capable on highways, long tours, and moderate off-road tracks. In practical use, riders report that the Tiger 1200 Rally Explorer feels refined for its size—its powerful engine is smooth, the chassis surprisingly agile for a big adventure bike, and the ride comfort strong even under load. It moves confidently on challenging terrain yet remains composed on tarmac. That said, the tall seat height and overall weight mean it demands some physical presence, especially when manoeuvring in slow or technical situations. Also, while its 30-litre tank gives noteworthy range, the sheer bulk and premium spec translate to higher purchase cost, and maintenance/spare parts costs are correspondingly elevated. Real-world mileage is quoted around ~19-20 km/l in mixed use in some markets. In summary, the Triumph Tiger 1200 Rally Explorer is a top-tier adventure tourer for riders who prioritise premium build, long-haul capability, advanced tech and genuine all-terrain versatility. It may not be the lowest-seat, lightest option in its class, but for those who are prepared to commit, it rewards with one of the most complete and confident adventure-motorcycle experiences available today. |
| Expert Review | MotoAutiv Team | MotoAutiv Team |
| FAQ (Manual Override) | Q: What is the Jawa 42 FJ? A: It is a modern-styled version of the Jawa 42 with a brushed-metal tank, sporty detailing, and a more premium, neo-retro look. Q: What engine does the Jawa 42 FJ use? A: It uses a 334cc, liquid-cooled, single-cylinder DOHC engine. Q: How much power and torque does it produce? A: It delivers around 29.17 PS of power and 29.62 Nm of torque. Q: What is the mileage of the Jawa 42 FJ? A: Real-world mileage is around 28–32 kmpl depending on riding style. Q: Does the Jawa 42 FJ have a 6-speed gearbox? A: Yes, it comes with a 6-speed constant-mesh gearbox and a slipper clutch. Q: Does the Jawa 42 FJ come with ABS? A: Yes, it features dual-channel ABS for safer braking. Q: What is the seat height of the Jawa 42 FJ? A: The seat height is approximately 790 mm, making it comfortable for most riders. Q: What is the kerb weight of the bike? A: The Jawa 42 FJ weighs around 184 kg. Q: What is the fuel tank capacity? A: It has a 12-litre fuel tank. Q: Is the Jawa 42 FJ good for daily commuting? A: Yes, its smooth engine and comfortable ergonomics make it great for daily use. Q: Is the Jawa 42 FJ suitable for long rides? A: Yes, the stable frame, 6-speed gearbox, and comfortable seating make it capable of touring. Q: What type of brakes does it use? A: It comes with front and rear disc brakes paired with dual-channel ABS. Q: What are the tyre sizes of the Jawa 42 FJ? A: 100/90-18 at the front and 140/70-17 at the rear. Q: What makes the FJ edition different from the regular Jawa 42? A: The FJ gets a brushed-aluminium tank finish, sportier styling, and a more modern premium look. Q: What is the approximate price of the Jawa 42 FJ? A: The ex-showroom price starts around ₹1.93 lakh and varies by location. | Q: What is the engine specification of the Tiger 1200 Rally Explorer? A: It is powered by a 1,160 cc liquid-cooled, 12-valve inline-three-cylinder engine that produces approximately 150 PS at 9,000 rpm and 130 Nm of torque at 7,000 rpm. Triumph Motorcycles +1 Q: What is the seat height and wet weight of the Rally Explorer? A: The seat height is adjustable at 875 mm / 895 mm and the wet (“mass in running order”) weight is approximately 261 kg (90% fuel) for the Rally Explorer variant. Triumph Motorcycles +1 Q: What kind of wheels and tires does the Rally Explorer use? A: The bike uses 21-inch front and 18-inch rear tubeless spoked wheels, fitted with tyres sized 90/90-21 (front) and 150/70-R18 (rear) with Metzeler Karoo Street tyres (or equivalent) for all-road/off-road capability. Q: What is the fuel tank capacity and what mileage can one expect? A: The Rally Explorer variant gets a 30-litre fuel tank for extended range. Real-world mileage is around ~19-20 km/l under mixed conditions (though actual may vary) and official figure ~5.5 L/100 km. Q: What electronics and rider aids are featured on the Rally Explorer? A: It comes with a full-colour 7-inch TFT display with My Triumph Connectivity, six riding modes (Rain, Road, Sport, Off-Road, Off-Road Pro, Rider), cornering ABS, traction control, heated rider & pillion seats, tyre-pressure monitoring system (TPMS), cruise control, quickshifter and more. Q: What is the ex-showroom price of the Tiger 1200 Rally Explorer in India? A: The ex-showroom price starts from approximately ₹ 22,29,000 in India for the Rally Explorer variant. Q: Is the Rally Explorer variant suitable for off-road rides as well as touring? A: Yes — the Rally Explorer is designed as a top-spec adventure bike with long-travel suspension, 21-inch front wheel, optional off-road modes, and rugged ergonomics, making it capable for both road touring and moderate off-road adventure. Q: What is the service interval and warranty for this motorcycle? A: The service interval is approximately every 16,000 km (10,000 miles) or 12 months, whichever comes first. The bike comes with a 3-year unlimited-mileage warranty in many markets. |
| Fuel System | Electronic Fuel Injection | — |
| Price Variants | | 193000 | RALLY EXPLORER | 2229000 GT EXPLORER | 2089000 RALLY PRO | 2079000 GT PRO | 1939000 |
| Pros | Retro-modern styling – Classic look with modern touches makes it stand out. Decent engine performance – The 294 cc engine with 6-speed gearbox provides good acceleration and city/highway usability. Comfortable ergonomics – Low seat height and upright riding stance make it accessible for most riders. Blend of old-school charm + modern basics – Features like disc brakes, ABS, and alloy/spoke wheel options balance nostalgia with practicality. Fun to ride – Lightweight and responsive, ideal for weekend rides or casual city commuting. | Strong engine performance: The 1,160 cc inline-three delivers around 150 PS and 130 Nm of torque, giving excellent power for both on-road and off-road adventure riding. Top-spec componentry & features: The Rally Explorer comes with long-travel suspension, 21-inch front/18-inch rear spoked wheels, semi-active damping, high-end brakes and a comprehensive electronics suite. Great touring ergonomics & comfort: Upright riding position, adjustable windscreen, plush seats, large fuel tank (30 litres) make it well suited for long‐distance rides. Improved smoothness & refinement: The latest version addresses engine vibrations and low-rpm stalls from earlier models, resulting in a more civilised ride. |
| Transmission | 6–Speed | 6 speed |
