2024 Jawa Perak - What Makes It Different From The Earlier Model?

In terms of looks, the Perak nails an authentic retro bobber’s look 

• The Perak is powered by the same 334cc liquid-cooled engine 
• As for its output, it stands at solid 30.6PS and 32.74Nm
• Underpinnings for the Perak include a telescopic fork and dual shocks 

Jawa recently unveiled the 2024 Perak in India, standing as the sole retro-styled authentic factory Bobber available in the country. For enthusiasts drawn to this classic aesthetic, the Perak stands as the primary option within the more affordable segment of the market. Let's delve into the updates distinguishing the 2024 Jawa Perak from its predecessor.

Price:

As part of its 2024 updates, the Jawa Perak introduces a new dual-tone variant priced at Rs 2,13,187, maintaining the same price point as before. Additionally, the Jawa 42 Bobber's existing Moonstone White variant now carries a price tag of Rs 2,09,500 (all prices ex-showroom Delhi). Notably, the 42 Bobber expands its lineup with two new variants: Mystic Copper and Jasper Red Dual Tone, featuring diamond-cut alloy wheels straight from the factory.

Design:

Belonging to Jawa's Heritage line, the Perak's new matte Black/matte Grey dual-tone variant showcases brass tank badging and a quilted tan seat, adding to its authentic old-school charm. Retaining its essence as a bobber interpretation of the standard Jawa, the Perak features a distinctive cantilevered seat in place of the rear subframe. This seat, bolted to the main frame via a sturdy metal sheet, contrasts elegantly with the matte black theme and gold pinstriping. 

The bike boasts a round LED brake light set into the rear of the seat, followed by a spacious fender. Crafting this unique design necessitated the development of a new frame and swingarm. Noteworthy are the slim slash-cut exhaust pipes on both sides, concealing the emissions-relevant collector box beneath the bike. Coupled with wide triangular side panels, the Perak exudes a distinctive presence on the roads.

While visually striking from a distance, closer inspection reveals enhanced finish levels compared to Jawa's current models. However, lingering issues persist, such as the speedometer's tendency to trap moisture on cold mornings, hindering readability. Additionally, uneven gaps in the exhaust heat shield and exposed cables for the rear indicators detract from the overall finish. Despite these nuances, the bike displays minimal rattling, although it lost a rear fender bolt despite low mileage.

Underpinnings:

Key changes in the Perak include repositioned footpegs, moved forward by 155mm akin to the 42 Bobber, and a re-tuned 7-step preload adjustable monoshock for improved damping. The 334cc liquid-cooled single-cylinder engine now delivers 29.9PS at 7500rpm and 30Nm at 5500rpm, slightly less than its predecessor. While welcomed, ergonomic and suspension updates could have been complemented by repositioning the instrument cluster for better readability and enhanced digital inset features.

The 42 Bobber expands its lineup with alloy-wheel variants of the Mystic Copper and Jasper Red Dual Tone options. The Mystic Copper Alloy Wheel variant carries a Rs 6,500 premium over the spoked wheel variant. Existing customers seeking to upgrade to alloy wheels can do so at an additional cost of Rs 14,000 for the Mystic Copper variant.

Verdict:

What we would have loved Jawa to change on the Perak would be its riding position. While the sensational design of the Perak garners admiration, it also brings along certain drawbacks in terms of comfort. The riding position proves to be challenging due to the cramped seat-to-footpeg ratio, exacerbated by a 10mm lower seat height, now at 750mm. The rear-set and elevated foot pegs contribute to discomfort, causing strain on the knees and hips over extended rides. Furthermore, the soft seat, while initially inviting, quickly leads to discomfort for the rider.

Ride quality on the Perak can be demanding as well. The suspension travel has been reduced at both ends to achieve the desired low-slung appearance. However, with only 86mm of rear wheel travel from the neatly recessed rear shock, encountering bumpy roads can result in a harsh ride, putting strain on the rider's back. Additionally, the reduced ground clearance to 145mm poses challenges, with the bike scraping over sharp speed breakers if not navigated carefully.

In addition to these updates, refining the 42 Bobber's engine and enhancing overall fit and finish would have been appreciated.