Jawa is gearing up to give the 42 a major update, and the motorcycle maker has now teased the 42 All Star ahead of what could be one of the biggest updates yet for its popular neo-retro roadster. Two new teasers released by Jawa hint at a refreshed motorcycle with changes not just to its appearance, but also to its engine and technology.
The Jawa 42 has been around for several years and has received multiple updates during its lifetime. However, the upcoming version is expected to be considerably more significant. The biggest talking point is likely to be the introduction of the Katar engine, which could bring a substantial improvement in performance and refinement.
The Katar is Classic Legends’ latest 334cc single-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine. It made its debut on the updated Yezdi Scrambler, where it produces 29.1 PS and 28.2 Nm. The engine has been developed as a more refined evolution of the powerplant used across the Jawa-Yezdi range.
For the Jawa 42, however, the engine could be tuned differently to suit the motorcycle’s roadster character. The current 42 uses a 294.72cc liquid-cooled single-cylinder engine producing 27.3 PS and 26.8 Nm, paired with a six-speed gearbox. Moving to the larger Katar unit would therefore give the 42 a useful bump in displacement and potentially make it considerably stronger in the mid-range.
The teasers also suggest that Jawa isn’t stopping with the engine. The motorcycle is expected to receive a new instrument console, replacing the existing setup with a more contemporary unit. The current Jawa 42 already gets a digital display with information including speed, trips, fuel level and gear position, so the new console could bring a more modern interface and possibly additional connectivity features.
Visually, the All Star theme gives the motorcycle a darker, more sinister appearance. Jawa is expected to retain the basic silhouette that has made the 42 recognisable, while introducing detail changes to make the motorcycle feel fresher. The All Star variant currently sits among the 42’s available versions, with the motorcycle also offered in the newer Ivory colour.
The update comes at an interesting time for Classic Legends. The company has been steadily expanding its product portfolio and has already started rolling out the Katar engine across its brands. Reports suggest that several upcoming Jawa, Yezdi and BSA motorcycles are expected to use the new 334cc powerplant.
For Jawa, updating the 42 could be particularly important. The motorcycle competes in one of India’s most fiercely contested retro-roadster segments, where the Royal Enfield Hunter 350 and other modern classics have established a strong presence.
With a bigger engine, new console and styling revisions, the updated Jawa 42 All Star could offer substantially more than just a new colour. If Jawa gets the pricing right, this could be the refresh that gives the 42 a much-needed second wind.