Quick Analysis
JAWA BOBBER
6.5 pts
Unweighted: 5 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
Suzuki GSX‑8R
38.0 pts
Unweighted: 27 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
| Specification | ||
|---|---|---|
Engine Specifications |
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| Cooling System | — | Liquid-cooled |
| Displacement | 334 cc | 776 cc |
| Engine Type | Single Cylinder, 4 Stroke, Liquid Cooled, DOHC | 4-stroke, parallel-twin, DOHC, 8-valve |
| Power | 29.9 PS | 82 bhp @ 8,500 rpm |
| Torque | 30 Nm | 78 Nm @ 6,800 rpm |
Performance & Efficiency |
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| Fuel Tank Capacity | 12.5 L | 14 litres |
| Mileage | 30 kmpl | 23 km/l |
| Top Speed (km/h) | — | 230 |
Dimensions & Weight |
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| Kerb Weight | 185 kg | 205 kg |
| Seat Height | 740 mm | 810 mm |
Brakes & Suspension |
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| ABS | Dual Channel | Dual-channel ABS |
| Front Brake | 280 mm | Dual 310 mm discs, radial-mount 4-piston calipers |
| Front Suspension | Telescopic Forks, Ø 35 mm | Showa SFF-BP 43 mm upside-down fork |
| Rear Brake | 240 mm | Single 240 mm disc, 1-piston caliper |
| Rear Suspension | Mono Shock Absorber, Gas Filled with 7-Step Adjustable Preload | Showa link-type mono-shock, preload adjustable |
Tyres & Wheels |
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| Front Tyre | 100/90-18, 56H | 120/70 ZR17 (Tubeless) |
| Rear Tyre | 140/70-17, 66H | 180/55 ZR17 (Tubeless) |
| Tyre Type | Tube | Radial, Tubeless |
| Wheel Type | Spoke | Cast aluminium alloy |
Features & Technology |
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| Headlight | — | LED (projector-style, vertically stacked) |
Other Specifications |
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| Battery | — | 12 V, 8 Ah (Maintenance-free) |
| Bike Image 1 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/42bobbermysticcopper.webp | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/241004_GSX_8R_WebsiteAdapts_colorSection_650x428px-09.jpg |
| Bike Image 2 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/42bobberjasperred.webp | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/All-New-Suzuki-GSX-8R-Revealed-To-Be-A-Brilliant-Badass-3.jpg |
| Bike Image 3 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/42bobberredsheen.webp | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/detail_ph04.jpg |
| Bike Image 4 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/42bobberblackmirror.webp | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/suzuki-gsx-8r-rear-view5.avif |
| Cluster | — | 5-inch full-colour TFT display (Bluetooth-enabled, multiple ride modes, traction control, gear indicator) |
| Color Options | Mystic Copper Moonstone White Jasper Red Deep Black Matte Red Clad Black Mirror | Metallic Triton Blue | #0052A5 Metallic Matt Sword Silver | #B0B5B9 Metallic Matt Black No 2 | #1E1E1E |
| Connectivity Features | — | Bluetooth, ride modes, traction control, TFT display |
| Cons | Single-seat limitation: It cannot carry a pillion, which might be a deal-breaker for riders who need two-up capability. Stiff rear suspension for some riders: On rough city roads, the suspension may feel firmer than expected, especially at lower speeds. Engine heat in traffic: The 334cc motor tends to generate noticeable heat during slow, bumper-to-bumper riding. Limited practicality: The bobber design restricts storage options, luggage mounting, and everyday utility compared to standard bikes. Smaller fuel tank: Longer highway rides may require more frequent fuel stops. Slightly heavy in tight spaces: While stable on the highway, its weight can be felt during U-turns or slow maneuvering. | Lacks the high-rev punch of inline-4 sportbikes. Slightly heavy at around 205 kg. Brakes could offer sharper feedback. Seat comfort isn’t ideal for very long rides. Wind protection is limited for high-speed touring. |
| Detailed Overview | Riding the Jawa 42 Bobber never quite feels ordinary — it’s a machine that makes a statement the moment you swing your leg over. The soul of this bike lies in its 334 cc single-cylinder, liquid-cooled, DOHC engine. That’s not just a handful of numbers — it’s a heart that delivers smooth throttle response, and more importantly, a strong mid-range punch. In day-to-day riding, whether you’re crawling through traffic or cruising on a highway, this engine delivers usable power without needing to be pushed hard. The 6-speed gearbox, paired with an assist-and-slipper clutch, makes gear changes feel refined. In the city, that helps — when you’re changing gears frequently, the clutch bite is lighter than on many cruiser-style bikes, but you still feel solid when opening up on open roads. The fuel injection system ensures consistent delivery of fuel, which helps with efficiency and makes sure power comes smoothly, with no surprise jerks or hesitation. On the road, the bike feels planted. Its low seat height — just 740 mm — makes it easy to touch the ground when stopped, which is a great confidence booster if you’re navigating crowded streets or tight parking situations. The wheelbase is long (1,485 mm), which helps stability when cruising, but the bike doesn’t feel cumbersome because its kerb weight (~185 kg) provides solidity without being overly heavy. The balance between comfort and control is nicely struck. Suspension is tuned just right for mixed urban and semi-highway conditions: telescopic front forks and a mono-shock with 7-step preload adjustment at the rear give you enough compliance for bumps, while remaining firm enough to feel stable through turns or during spirited rides. The preload adjustment is a thoughtful feature — if you occasionally carry a load or ride over rougher roads, you can tweak things to suit. Braking inspires confidence. With disc brakes on both front and rear, and dual-channel ABS, the Bobber gives you reliable stopping power. Whether you’re easing off at speed or needing to brake hard in sudden traffic, the system helps prevent wheel lock-up, which adds a layer of safety that’s especially helpful for less aggressive riders. Fuel tank capacity sits at 12.5 litres — not massive, but enough for a fair mix of city use and occasional weekend rides. You’ll want to plan fuel stops if you ride long distances, but for daily use it’s quite reasonable. Ergonomically, the Bobber leans into a relaxed cruiser stance. The forward-set footpegs, wide handlebars, and low seat invite a laid-back posture that’s ideal for relaxed rides, not aggressive sporty cornering. The single-seat layout reinforces that cruiser identity — it’s clearly made for solo riding, and not for pillion passengers. On the practical side, the 42 Bobber includes a modern digital instrument console, LED lighting, electric start, and useful indicators like low fuel. These touches bring a classic-looking bobber into the modern age without spoiling the minimal charm — you get just enough tech to feel contemporary, without unnecessary frills. If you ask whether this bike is for someone who just needs a daily commuter — it could be, but it truly shines when you treat it as a style cruiser. It’s less about beating traffic times or getting the most for every rupee of fuel, and more about enjoying the ride: the growl of its exhaust, the planted feel at speed, the freedom of minimal styling. For someone who values character, presence, and the feel of a modern classic, the Jawa 42 Bobber is a compelling pick. | The GSX-8R brings together Suzuki’s sportbike pedigree with practical everyday usability. At its heart lies a 776 cc liquid-cooled parallel-twin engine featuring a 270° crank and Suzuki’s Cross Balancer shaft — helping deliver smooth, vibration-reduced power with strong mid-range punch. This motor produces around 82 bhp at 8,500 rpm and 78 Nm of torque at 6,800 rpm, paired with a 6-speed gearbox and a bi-directional quick-shifter (up and down) as standard. Chassis-wise, it uses a steel diamond-style frame, cast aluminium 17″ wheels, and premium suspension: a Showa SFF-BP upside-down fork up front and a Showa link-type mono-shock at the rear (preload adjustable). Kerb weight is around 205 kg and seat height about 810 mm, with a 14-litre fuel tank. In terms of braking and tyres: twin 310 mm front discs with radial-mounted calipers, a single 240 mm rear disc, dual-channel ABS, and Dunlop RoadSport 2 radial tyres (120/70-17 front, 180/55-17 rear) ensure capable performance and grip. Feature-wise, it includes a full-colour 5″ TFT display, ride-by-wire throttle, three ride modes (Active, Basic, Comfort), four-level traction control, low RPM assist, and Suzuki’s Easy Start system — packaged under the Suzuki Intelligent Ride System (S.I.R.S.). Styling is aggressive yet functional: full fairing derived from wind-tunnel development, vertically stacked LED headlamps, exposed seat rails, and aerodynamic detailing. Available in three colour options for the Indian market: Metallic Triton Blue, Metallic Matt Sword Silver, and Metallic Matt Black No.2. Overall, the GSX-8R targets riders looking for more performance than a 650cc class sportbike, but with greater everyday usability than full-on liter-class superbikes. The ergonomics strike a balance — clip-ons and sporty lines, yet a comfortable setup for longer rides. The combination of modern electronics, strong mid-range power, and quality chassis and componentry make it a well-rounded middleweight sportbike for the Indian market. That said, some trade-offs exist: the fuel tank is modest (14 L), the seat height may be tall for shorter riders, and the weight means it isn’t the lightest in its class. Mileage in Indian use is claimed around 23.8 km/l (WMTC), though real-world urban figures may be lower. |
| Drive Modes | — | Active, Basic, Comfort |
| Expert Review | MotoAutiv Team | Experts agree that the GSX-8R stands out by offering a rare combination of spirited performance and daily practicality. It shines thanks to its smooth, torquey engine, premium electronics like quick-shifter and multiple ride modes, and high-quality chassis and suspension that deliver confidence on both city roads and twisty highways. While it may not deliver the full high-revving character or ultra-light feel of a dedicated superbike, its strength lies in doing many things well — sportiness, comfort, usability, features — rather than dominating one parameter. For riders looking for a true all-rounder middleweight with strong value, the GSX-8R hits the mark., 4.4, MotoAutiv Team |
| FAQ (Manual Override) | Q: What is the mileage? A: The mileage is around 26–32 kmpl in real-world riding. Q: What is the seat height? A: The seat height is 740 mm. Q: Can the Jawa 42 Bobber carry a pillion? A: No, it is a single-seat motorcycle designed only for solo riding. Q: What is the engine capacity? A: It has a 334 cc liquid-cooled single-cylinder engine. Q: Does the bike overheat in traffic? A: No, the liquid cooling system keeps temperatures stable even in slow traffic. Q: Is it good for long rides? A: It is suitable for medium-distance rides but not ideal for very long touring due to its single seat and 12.5L tank. Q: What is the weight of the bike? A: The kerb weight is around 185 kg. Q: Does it have ABS? A: Yes, it comes with dual-channel ABS. Q: What is the fuel tank capacity? A: The fuel tank capacity is 12.5 litres. Q: Is the Jawa 42 Bobber beginner-friendly? A: Yes, it is manageable for new riders, thanks to its low seat height and smooth power delivery. Q: What is the top speed? A: The top speed is approximately 130 km/h. Q: How many gears does it have? A: It has a 6-speed gearbox. Q: Is the maintenance expensive? A: Maintenance is moderate and similar to other 300–400cc premium bikes. Q: What is the warranty period? A: It comes with a warranty of 4 years or 50,000 km, extendable up to 6 years. Q: What is the on-road price? A: Depending on location and variant, it usually falls between ₹2.30 lakh and ₹2.60 lakh on-road. | Q: What is the mileage? A: The mileage is around 23 kmpl (real-world mixed riding). Q: What is the engine capacity of the Suzuki GSX-8R? A: The engine displacement is 776 cc. Q: What is the maximum power of the Suzuki GSX-8R? A: The GSX-8R produces 82 bhp at 8,500 rpm. Q: What is the top speed of the Suzuki GSX-8R? A: The top speed is approximately 230 km/h. Q: Does the Suzuki GSX-8R have a quick-shifter? A: Yes, it comes with a bi-directional quick-shifter as standard. Q: What is the kerb weight of the Suzuki GSX-8R? A: The kerb weight is 205 kg. Q: How many ride modes does the GSX-8R have? A: It offers three ride modes — Active, Basic, and Comfort. Q: What is the seat height of the Suzuki GSX-8R? A: The seat height is 810 mm. Q: What is the fuel tank capacity? A: The GSX-8R has a 14-litre fuel tank. Q: What is the price of the Suzuki GSX-8R in India? A: The ex-showroom price in India is ₹9.25 lakh. |
| Final Drive Type | — | chain |
| Fuel System | — | Electronic fuel injection (EFI) |
| On-Road Price (Subsidy Adjusted, ₹) | — | 1132094 |
| Price Variants | | 193000 | Standard | 925000 | Single variant (Dual-channel ABS, bi-directional quick-shifter, ride-modes) |
| Pros | Unique factory-custom look: The 42 Bobber stands out with its low-slung stance, chunky tyres, single seat, and retro-custom appeal that usually requires aftermarket work on other bikes. Strong low-end performance: Its 334cc engine delivers good torque early in the rev range, making city riding feel effortless and lively. Comfortable riding position: The forward-set footpegs and wide handlebars create a relaxed, cruiser-like posture suitable for long and easy rides. Good road presence: The bike’s muscular tank, floating seat, and overall proportions make it feel more premium and eye-catching than typical 300–400cc motorcycles. Adjustable seat: The adjustable seat height is a rare and practical feature, helping riders of different heights find a comfortable stance. Improved brakes and suspension: The combination of discs with dual-channel ABS and a well-tuned suspension setup provides confident braking and a stable ride. Modern features: A digital console, LED lights, slipper clutch, and USB charging add convenience without breaking the retro charm. | Strong mid-range torque from the 776 cc twin engine — great for both city and touring. Modern features like ride modes, traction control, and quick-shifter add premium feel. Comfortable riding posture — sporty yet practical for daily use. Good build quality and attractive design. Meets latest emission standards (OBD-2B compliant). |
| Starter | — | Electric |
| Transmission | 6–Speed | 6-speed, bi-directional quick-shifter, assist & slipper clutch |
| Vehicle Warranty (Years) | — | 2 |
