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2024 Jawa 350 review: An Iconic vintage bike with modern features

By Shivangi Khanna
/
27 Feb 2024
blog
2024 Jawa 350 review: An Iconic vintage bike for Indians

A captivating blend of retro aesthetics and contemporary features, the Jawa 350 motorcycle beckons riders seeking a unique and evocative experience. This comprehensive guide delves into the Jawa 350's essence, exploring its design, features, performance, and customer insights to help you decide if it's the perfect ride for you.

Highlights of the Article

  • The Jawa 350, a reborn classic, blends timeless design with modern features.
  • It offers classic elements, modern touches, a smooth ride, and various colour options.
  • Potential drawbacks include vibrations, limited pillion comfort, and a developing service network.
  • Customer opinions highlight charm, performance, and handling while mentioning quality concerns and costs.
  • Consider your needs and preferences to see if the Jawa 350 is the right motorcycle for you


The Original Jawa 350 Era


  • Birth of an Icon: The Jawa 350 was initially introduced in Czechoslovakia in 1932 as a classic motorcycle offering reliability and a distinct riding experience.
  • Global Presence: The Jawa 350 gained popularity worldwide, including India where it was produced under license for several decades.
  • The End and a Long Hiatus: Production of the original Jawa 350 eventually stopped in 1991 due to various factors including outdated technology and economic changes.


Rebirth of the Classic


  • Mahindra's Revival Project: In 2016, Mahindra & Mahindra, a major Indian automotive company, acquired the rights to the Jawa brand and embarked on a project to revive the iconic motorcycle.
  • Modern Interpretation: The goal was to reimagine the Jawa 350 for modern riders while retaining its classic design essence.
  • Market Anticipation: Motorcycle enthusiasts eagerly awaited the return of the Jawa 350, sparking nostalgia and excitement.


The Launch and Release


  • December 2018 - Re-introduction and Bookings: Classic Legends officially unveiled the new Jawa 350 model in December 2018 and started accepting bookings for the motorcycle.
  • March 2019 – Deliveries Begin: The first batch of newly manufactured Jawa 350 motorcycles rolled out to customers in March 2019, marking the official re-entry of this classic onto the market.


Current Status


  • Market Presence: The Jawa 350 has carved out a good position in the Indian market, competing directly with the likes of Royal Enfield's Classic 350.
  • Recent Updates: Jawa continues to update the 350 with new features and colours, with the most recent updates happening in 2024


A Timeless Classic Reborn with Modern Flair

The Jawa 350 motorcycle is a unique blend of retro charm and modern functionality, captivating riders seeking a motorcycle that embodies nostalgia and contemporary appeal.


Classic Design Elements:


  • Iconic Teardrop Tank: The Jawa 350's most recognizable design element is its teardrop-shaped fuel tank, instantly reminiscent of classic motorcycles. This design, synonymous with the Jawa brand, has been faithfully retained in the modern iteration.
  • Chrome Accents: Chrome accents generously adorn the Jawa 350, adding a touch of sophistication and elegance. These elements, including the headlamp bezel, handlebars, and exhaust, complement the teardrop tank, creating a cohesive and visually appealing aesthetic.
  • Round Headlamp and Tail Lamp: The Jawa 350 features a classic round headlamp and tail lamp, paying homage to the motorcycle's heritage. These circular elements contribute to the bike's timeless visual character.


Modern Touches:


  • Contemporary Instrumentation: Despite the classic exterior, the Jawa 350 boasts a modern instrument cluster. This cluster typically features an analogue speedometer and tachometer alongside a digital display showcasing essential information like fuel level, odometer reading, and trip meters.
  • Stylish Alloy Wheels: The Jawa 350 sheds the traditional spoke wheels and embraces contemporary alloy wheels. These wheels not only enhance the bike's visual appeal but also contribute to improved handling and performance.
  • Disc Brakes: Front and rear disc brakes provide superior stopping power compared to the older drum brakes, ensuring enhanced safety for the rider.


A Design that Resonates Across Generations

The Jawa 350's design caters to a wide range of riders. The classic elements evoke nostalgia for motorcycle enthusiasts who appreciate the brand's rich heritage, while the modern features ensure a comfortable and safe riding experience for contemporary riders. This unique blend of retro charm and modern functionality has made the Jawa 350 a popular choice for those seeking a motorcycle that stands out from the crowd.


Features


1. Powerful Engine Performance:

  • At the heart of the Jawa 350 lies a powerful 346cc, single-cylinder, air-cooled engine that delivers a smooth and responsive ride.
  • This engine is designed to provide adequate power for navigating city streets and cruising on highways.

2. Modern Comfort and Handling:

  • The Jawa 350 features a telescopic fork suspension at the front and twin shock absorbers at the rear, ensuring a comfortable ride and confident handling.
  • Disc brakes on both the front and rear wheels provide effective stopping power, while the wide, comfortable seat offers support for extended journeys.

3. Technological Enhancements:

  • The Jawa 350 incorporates several modern features that enhance the riding experience.
  • An analogue instrument cluster displays essential information like speed, fuel level, and RPM, while a digital inset provides additional details.
  • LED taillight and turn signals ensure improved visibility in low-light conditions.

4. Customization Options:

  • The Jawa 350 caters to individual preferences with a variety of customization options.
  • Riders can personalize their bikes with different colour schemes, chrome or matte finishes, and a range of aftermarket accessories.


Engine and Performance Explained

The Jawa 350, a legendary motorcycle reborn in 2018, boasts a modern engine built upon classic engineering principles, offering a thrilling ride experience. Let's delve into the details of its engine and performance:


Engine Specifications:


  • Engine Type: Single-cylinder, four-stroke, air-cooled
  • Displacement: 293cc
  • Maximum Power: 16.3 bhp (12.2 kW) @ 7000 rpm
  • Maximum Torque: 28 Nm @ 5500 rpm
  • Transmission: 6-speed gearbox


Engine Design:


  • The Jawa 350's engine pays homage to its heritage with a single-cylinder, air-cooled design. This air-cooled system promotes simpler maintenance and a classic riding experience.
  • While the engine might not boast the most contemporary power figures, it delivers a smooth and linear power delivery, well-suited for leisurely cruising and navigating city streets.


Performance Characteristics:


  • Acceleration: The Jawa 350 isn't built for neck-breaking acceleration, but it provides adequate pick-up for comfortable city riding and highway cruising. Reaching a cruising speed of 70-80 km/h is effortless, making it suitable for everyday commutes.
  • Top Speed: The Jawa 350 can achieve a top speed of around 110 km/h, which is sufficient for most riding conditions in India.
  • Fuel Efficiency: The air-cooled engine contributes to the Jawa 350's fuel efficiency, offering a mileage of around 30-35 km/l under regular riding conditions.


Overall, the Jawa 350's engine and performance cater to riders who value a classic riding experience with a blend of moderate power, comfortable cruising, and fuel efficiency. While it might not be ideal for highway sprints or adrenaline-pumping adventures, it delivers a delightful ride for those seeking a motorcycle with a touch of nostalgia and everyday practicality.


Exploring Variants and Colors of the Jawa 350

The legendary Jawa 350, reborn in 2018, continues to enthral motorcycle enthusiasts with its classic charm and modern performance. This iconic motorcycle, currently available in one variant, boasts a captivating range of four colour options to suit diverse tastes and preferences.


Classic Elegance in Every Variant:


While the Jawa 350 offers a singular variant, it embodies the essence of timeless design and robust engineering. Powered by a 346cc, single-cylinder engine producing 27.33 PS and 28.04 Nm of torque, the Jawa 350 delivers a smooth and enjoyable riding experience. Its telescopic front forks and twin shock absorbers at the rear ensure a comfortable yet stable ride, both on city streets and open highways.


A Spectrum of Colors to Match Your Spirit:


The Jawa 350 empowers you to express your individuality through its captivating colour palette:

  • Mystique Orange: A vibrant and energetic hue that exudes a youthful spirit and turns heads wherever you go.
  • Maroon: A timeless and sophisticated colour that reflects the classic heritage of the Jawa brand and adds a touch of elegance to your ride.
  • Black: The epitome of style and sophistication, black offers a timeless appeal and complements any riding gear or accessories.
  • Blue: A refreshing and dynamic colour that evokes a sense of freedom and adventure, perfect for those who crave open roads and exploration.


Beyond the Paint: Customization Potential:


While the standard colour options are stunning, the Jawa 350 allows for further personalization through a variety of aftermarket accessories. From chrome embellishments to custom exhausts, you can tailor your Jawa 350 to match your unique style and riding preferences.


Choosing Your Perfect Jawa 350:


Whether you're drawn to the bold vibrancy of Mystique Orange, the timeless elegance of Maroon, the classic appeal of Black, or the refreshing spirit of Blue, the Jawa 350 offers a colour option to resonate with your personality.

Remember, the Jawa 350 is more than just a motorcycle; it's a symbol of heritage, style, and the freedom of the open road. So, choose your colour, personalize your ride, and embark on an unforgettable journey with the legendary Jawa 350.


Maintenance Costs and Service Intervals Explained

The Jawa 350, a resurrected legend in the Indian motorcycle scene, boasts a timeless design and classic thump. But with ownership comes the responsibility of proper maintenance. Here's a comprehensive guide to understanding the Jawa 350's maintenance costs and service intervals:


Scheduled Servicing:


  • Free Services: Jawa offers 3 free services within the first year or 12,000 km, whichever comes first. These services typically involve basic checks, oil changes, and adjustments.
  • Paid Services: After the free services, regular servicing is recommended every 5,000 km or 6 months, whichever comes first. These paid services involve a more comprehensive inspection, including:
  • Engine oil and filter change
  • Air filter cleaning/replacement
  • Spark plug inspection/replacement
  • Chain lubrication and adjustment
  • Brake pad wear check and replacement (if necessary)
  • General component checks and tightening


Maintenance Cost Estimation:


  • Free Services: These are free of charge, but some service stations might charge for consumables like engine oil and air filters.
  • Paid Services: The estimated cost for a paid service can vary between ₹2,000 - ₹3,500 depending on the service centre, location, and parts replaced.


Additional Maintenance Costs:


  • Spare Parts: While Jawa motorcycles are generally known for their reliability, certain parts like brake pads, tyres, and chains will need periodic replacements. These part costs can vary depending on the brand and quality chosen.
  • Unscheduled Repairs: In case of unexpected breakdowns or repairs beyond regular servicing, the costs can vary significantly depending on the issue and parts involved.


Tips for Managing Maintenance Costs:


  • Regularly service your Jawa 350 at authorized service centres.
  • Use genuine spare parts whenever possible.
  • Maintain proper riding habits and avoid harsh acceleration or braking.
  • Learn basic maintenance tasks like chain lubrication and tyre pressure checks to identify potential issues early on.


Jawa 350: A Classic Reborn - Weighing the Pros and Cons

The Jawa 350, a legendary motorcycle resurrected in 2018, has captured the hearts of many riders seeking a blend of classic charm and modern performance. However, like any motorcycle, it comes with its own set of strengths and weaknesses. Let's delve into the pros and cons to help you decide if the Jawa 350 is the right ride for you:


Pros:


  • Timeless Design: The Jawa 350 boasts a retro-inspired aesthetic that evokes nostalgia and turns heads. It embodies the classic motorcycle spirit, appealing to riders who appreciate vintage styling.
  • Thrilling Performance: The 350cc engine delivers a spirited performance, offering a good balance between power and fuel efficiency. It's capable of keeping up with modern traffic and providing a satisfying riding experience.
  • Agile Handling: The Jawa 350's lightweight construction and well-tuned suspension contribute to nimble handling. This makes it ideal for navigating city streets and manoeuvring through traffic.
  • Strong Braking: The Jawa 350 is equipped with powerful disc brakes on both wheels, ensuring confident stopping power. This is a crucial safety feature for any motorcycle rider.
  • Unique Ownership Experience: Owning a Jawa 350 goes beyond just transportation. It's about joining a community of passionate enthusiasts who share a love for classic motorcycles and the brand's rich history.


Cons:


  • Vibrations: The engine can be vibey at higher speeds, particularly noticeable for riders who prefer a smoother ride. This is a common characteristic of single-cylinder engines like the one used in the Jawa 350.
  • Limited Pillion Comfort: While the Jawa 350 can accommodate a pillion rider, the small seat and lack of dedicated grab rails might not offer the most comfortable experience for extended journeys.
  • Service Network: Compared to established brands, Jawa's service network is still growing. This could potentially lead to longer waiting times or limited service availability in certain regions.
  • Fit and Finish: Some users have reported minor inconsistencies in fit and finish, which might not be up to par with the expectations of all riders. However, these issues seem to be improving with ongoing updates.
  • Competition: The Jawa 350 faces stiff competition from well-established players like Royal Enfield, which offers similar motorcycles with a wider range of options and potentially more extensive service networks.


In Conclusion:

The Jawa 350 is a compelling choice for riders seeking a unique and stylish motorcycle that delivers a fun and engaging riding experience. Its classic design, strong performance, and agile handling are undeniable strengths. However, potential buyers should be aware of the vibrations, limited pillion comfort, and a developing service network. Weighing the pros and cons against your individual needs and preferences will help you determine if the Jawa 350 is the perfect motorcycle for you.


Jawa 350: What Do Customers Think?

The Jawa 350, a resurrected classic, evokes strong nostalgia and mixed opinions among riders. Let's explore what customers love and the areas where the bike could improve.


Pros: Retro Charm & Appeal


  • Classic Design: Customers adore the Jawa 350's vintage styling, reminiscent of its iconic past.
  • Smooth Engine: The refined engine delivers a satisfying thump and a pleasant riding experience.
  • Good Handling: Many riders praise the bike's manoeuvrability and comfortable ride.


Cons: Potential Issues & Refinement


  • Quality Concerns: Some customers report issues such as rusting and minor build quality problems.
  • High Vibrations: While adding character, engine vibrations at higher speeds can become tiresome for some.
  • Maintenance Cost: Certain owners find spare parts and service costs slightly on the higher side.


Overall Sentiment

The Jawa 350 is generally well-received, particularly by those who prioritize its classic looks and heritage. However, long-term reliability and refinement are areas where the bike needs to address customer expectations fully.


A Classic Reborn, Ready to Ride

The Jawa 350, a legendary motorcycle reborn in 2018, blends timeless design with modern features. It captures the hearts of riders seeking a distinctive, retro-inspired experience. While not an upcoming model, the Jawa 350 remains a relevant and compelling choice in the classic motorcycle segment.


Also Read : The Ride Review of Jawa 350