Jawa 42 FJ Vs Jawa 42 standard: What’s the difference?

Classic Legends launched yet another Jawa 42 called the 42 FJ where ‘FJ’ stands for František Janeček— the original Jawa founder in Czechoslovakia (now Czech Republic). It is the third model in the Jawa 42 range after the standard 42 and 42 Bobber. Visually the new 42 FJ is very similar to the standard 42.

However, there are quite a few differences between the two bikes, mostly mechanical. Let us check out in what ways the new Jawa 42 FJ differs from the Jawa 42 standard which also witnessed some updates recently.

Jawa 42 FJ vs Jawa 42 standard: Dimensions

The Jawa 42 FJ and standard Jawa 42 share similar dimensions, with only minor variations.The 42 FJ has a slightly higher seat height of 790 mm, compared to the standard 42 which gets a saddle height of 788 mm. The 42 FJ has a 12-litre fuel tank, which is marginally smaller than the standard 42 with a 13.2-litre tank. Both models weigh 184 kg, but the 42 FJ number is without fuel. The 42 FJ is longer than the standard 42 with a wheelbase of 1,440 mm and 1369mm, respectively.

Jawa 42 FJ vs Jawa 42 standard: Features

Both bikes have a lot in common when it comes to features including a round fully-digital instrument console and a USB charging port. However, the new 42 FJ is better equipped than the standard 42 with features such as all-LED illumination and turn indicators.

Jawa 42 FJ vs Jawa 42 standard: Hardware specs

Both the Jawa 42 FJ and the standard Jawa 42 are built on essentially the same dual-cradle frame. However, the 42 FJ gets fatter 41mm telescopic forks at the front. At the rear, both models feature twin shock absorbers with preload adjustment, but the 42 FJ’s shocks offer a 5-step adjustable preload.In terms of rear suspension, both models feature twin shock absorbers with preload adjustment, but the 42 FJ boasts a more advanced setup with 5-step adjustable preload, allowing for finer tuning.

Braking capabilities also differ between the two models. The 42 FJ is equipped with a larger 320 mm front disc and a 240 mm rear disc, both paired with floating callipers and ABS for enhanced stopping power. In contrast, the standard 42 features a smaller 280 mm front and 240 mm rear disc.

Notably, the 42 FJ comes standard with dual-channel ABS across all variants, providing an added layer of safety. In comparison, the standard 42 only offers this advanced braking setup on higher variants

Jawa 42 FJ vs Jawa 42 standard: Powertrain specs

Powering the Jawa 42 FJ is powered by a 334cc, liquid-cooled, single-cylinder motor which pushes out 29 bhp and 29 Nm of peak torque. This motor is paired with a 6-speed gearbox with a lip and assist clutch. On the other hand, the standard 42 still draws power from the same 294.72 cc engine, known as the ‘J Panther’, delivering 26.9 bhp and 26.84 Nm of torque. Like the  Jawa 42 FJ, the standard 42 also gets a six-speed gearbox via a slip and assist clutch.

Jawa 42 FJ vs Jawa 42 standard: Prices