It was two years ago that Classic Legends Private Limited, a subsidiary of Mahindra Group, acquired BSA Company for Rs 28 crores. As on date, Mahindra owns a 60% stake in the company and this has allowed Mahindra to get a licence of the brand to use the same for sale, marketing and distribution of Jawa motorcycles.
Thanks to this setup, we now have the first ever reborn Jawa. The first three Jawa motorcycles were launched today at an exclusive event. The cheapest of the three is Jawa 42. It is priced at Rs 1.55 lakhs. Next is Jawa. Yes, just Jawa (the first ever Jawa motorcycle was also called Jawa. That’s why in the re-born phase as well, the first motorcycle is also called just Jawa). Jawa is priced at Rs 1.64 lakhs. Topping the range is Perak. It is a custom bobber which is priced at Rs 1.89 lakhs. All prices are ex-showroom.
The Jawa and Jawa 42 is powered by the same single cylinder 293 cc engine which delivers 27 hp and 29 Nm. It is mated via 6 speed gearbox. It gets front disc brake with ABS while rear is a drum brake. On the custom bobber Perak, front and rear is disc brake with ABS.
At the launch event, Mr Anand Mahindra spoke about a conversation he had with John Abraham. This was even before Mr Mahindra had purchased Jawa. At that time Mr Mahindra was still contemplating. He knew John was an avid biker. So Mr Mahindra asked John as to what does he think of Jawa (will it survive when there is Royal Enfield in the market?). To this John famously replied, if Royal Enfield is your skin, then Jawa is your blood. This was it. And rest is history. Watch the first ever TVC video of Jawa motorcycle below.
Speaking about sales, service, etc. Mahindra said that they have chosen some of the best dealers in the country to form Jawa dealer network across India. In the first phase, they already have 105 dealers on board, all of which have paid a deposit of Rs 2 crore in order to become a dealer. This speaks a lot, as no dealer got to see the bike before signing on. They trust that the motorcycle and the brand will do well in India.
The first dealerships are to open on 5th December. By the end of this year, a total of 64 dealers will be operational, and will be offering test ride. Deliveries of first bikes will start from early 2019. Jawa Motorcycles will rival with Royal Enfield.