JAWA Perak

Introduction

The elegant, stylish, and agile Jawa Perak is an immediate head-turner. This bike is more of a concept vehicle that seems to come straight off a motor show pavilion. The company made a big revelation a couple of years ago that it is coming up with something concept-y and funky, a sort of a showstopper that perfectly follows the production-spec Jawa Forty-Two and Jawa. This bike is a visual treat with a great appeal, lasting value and good stamina. With the distinctly Jawa design, this bike vibes well with the rider. This bike is apparently a bobber-take that looks out-of-the box and rides well. 

How is the design? 

The bobber design of Jawa Perak is low-slung with a single unattached floating seat. This eye-catching and unique cantilevered seat is perfectly bolted to the bike’s main seat by a tough metal sheet and its tan finishing complements the gold pinstriping and the matte black theme of the bike. The broad and grippy handlebars, the integrated tail lamps, and the teardrop gasoline tank contribute to the classy appearance of the bike. The unique design of the bike demanded a modified swingarm and frame. The typical concept look of the bike is completed with slash-cut and stylish exhaust pipe on both sides. It is made production ready by placing the collector box underneath where it cannot be seen. The speedometer, however, continues to trap enough moisture on chilly mornings and its irritant placement does not allow the rider to read the dial’s bottom half. The black paint on its body adds to its premium-ness. 

How is the performance?

There are no other brands that can do a better job, at this price range, of making a perfect style statement than Jawa. It is a wonderful on-road experience to ride the Jawa Perak with a more efficient and flexible engine. The liquid-cooled, single-cylinder, 334 cc engine is able to generate 4 hp and 4 Nm more than the normal Jawas. So, this bike is delivering a power of 30.22 bhp and a peak torque of 32.74 Nm. The engine feels familiar with that typical thrummed noise of the exhaust which has become relatable with Jawa. The motor has this flat power output and a relatively stronger surge when the revs ascend. Mild vibrations are felt at higher speed and get stronger beyond 140 kmph. Having said that, this is not quite a bike that one would want to take on long hauls. 

How does the Jawa Perak ride? 

The riding posture of Jawa Perak is painful due to the fact that the placement of the seat and the foot peg is more cramped than the conventional Jawas. Another issue is that the foot pegs of the bike are rather high up and rear-set for the matter and soon the hips and knees demand a break. The ride quality is also very punishing because the suspension is reduced on both sides for bringing the low-slung appearance and the rides on bumpy roads will not feel joyous. The ground clearance of the bike is dropped to an uncomfortable 145mm and may scrape over bumpers and speed breakers if not carefully ridden. On the plus side, this bike feels agile and light, despite the 16 mm stretch of the wheelbase. 

How comfortable is Jawa Perak? 

As mentioned earlier, Jawa Perak is not the most comfortable to ride on long hauls and at higher speeds beyond 140 kmph. The seating posture is painful due to the fact that the placement of the foot peg and the single seat is cramped. The older models do not have the same issue. The ground clearance of this bike could be improved for ensuring smoother and seamless cornering. However, Jawa Perak seems to be confident and in command as it perfectly navigates around turns and curves. This bike feels more comfortable on shorter distances and seems more like a cruiser-bike. However, it is not ideal for off-road travelling. Before choosing it as a daily commuter, one must test its performance and comfort. 

How's the tech? 

The following are some of the significant technological specifications and features of the Jawa Perak. 

• The bike is equipped with a self-start mechanism. 
• The liquid-cooled, single-cylinder, 334 cc engine is able to generate a power of 30.22 bhp and a peak torque of 32.74 Nm.
• The front suspension of the bike is a telescopic hydraulic fork and the rear suspension is a mono shock-absorber. 
• Both brake types are disc. 
• This bike has an analogue speedometer and a digital trip metre.
• It has a dual-channel ABS and twin exhaust. 
• This bike has an engine-kill switch and pass light.

How's the mileage of the Jawa Perak? 

The Jawa Perak can deliver an average of 30 kmpl. It can obtain a higher mileage when ridden on highways. 

Is the Jawa Perak good value for money? 

It is commendable and brave for Jawa Moto to take a rather uncompromised approach to design and style, no doubt by undercutting its practicality. The firm single-seater and the big panels rarely have a significant storage room besides holding some papers and small tools. The bike is priced at almost 197,000 and not very desirable for riders who demand thrill, long touring and gentle cruising. 

How is the after sales service? 

There are a few authorised service centres here in India that offer three free services for the Jawa Perak. The first service can be availed after 30 days or 1000 km, the second service after 6 months or 6000 km and the third service after 12 months or 12000 km.  

Which motorbikes compete in this segment? 

The motorbikes that compete in the same segment as Jawa Perak are Honda H’ness CB350, Royal Enfield Classic 350, Royal Enfield Meteor 350 and TVS Ronin.  

Verdict (Value for money)

If you are looking for a light-weight cruising bike for regular commuting, then there are other bikes that can meet the expectations at a lower price range. If you are looking for a good long-haul experience, then Jawa Perak is not for you. However, in terms of style statement this can be your perfect bike.