Royal Enfield Classic 350 vs Jawa 42 : Which Retro Cruiser Reigns Supreme in 2025?
Royal Enfield Classic 350 vs Jawa 42 : There’s something quaint about old bikes , the thump, the chrome, and the timelessness about them. Two motorbikes in India personify this old-world charm within new performance: the Royal Enfield Classic 350 and the Jawa 42. Both the motorbikes look retro, rumble strong with their thuds, and are constructed for the motorcyclist who wants to drive with delicacy. So, which one do you choose? Let us set them against each other to learn that.
Royal Enfield Classic 350 is a legend in itself. Its design has remained largely unchanged over the decades, and that’s where it’s lovely. The round headlamp, huge fuel tank, and chrome finish give it the royal and raw feel. Compare this to the Jawa 42, which is retro in design with a dash of modernity.
It appears more sleek and sporty, and features lighter shades and a younger personality. So, if you desire the royal, vintage appearance, go with the Classic 350. If you desire the retro-modern appearance, Jawa 42 is the one to go with.
And then, of course, there’s the engine. The Royal Enfield Classic 350 receives a 349cc air-oil cooled engine that produces 20.2 bhp and 27 Nm of torque. It is engineered to cruise and long-distance comfort. Jawa 42 gets a 294.72cc liquid-cooled engine that gives 27.3 bhp and 26.8 Nm of torque. That makes the Jawa faster and more responsive, especially in city traffic conditions. Classic 350 gives a relaxed and thumpy ride that most motorcyclists relish.
Feature-to-feature, the Jawa 42 is newer. It gets a digital-analog console, improved suspension setup, and reduced weight, all of which enhance handling. The Royal Enfield Classic 350 gets a semi-digital console, Tripper navigation (in higher variants), and that solid, stable feel that enhances road presence.
As for the price (ex-showroom Delhi), the Royal Enfield Classic 350 retails around Rs 1.93 lakh, while the Jawa 42 costs around Rs 1.98 lakh. Not entirely much different in cost, so in essence, it’s just all about how the bike handles to ride and what it looks like.
