Jawa, a Czech brand that won its way into the hearts of Indian motorcyclists in the 1960’s until the advent of Japanese commuter four-stroke motorcycles killed the brand. But thanks to Classic Legend Limited, Indians will be able to enjoy the Jawa brand again. Launching three new products, the Jawa, Jawa 42 and factory-custom ‘Perak’ the brand hopes to make a big bang when their products hit the Indian roads in early 2019.
However, the rebirth of the brand does not mean the motorcycle will feature ancient technology, instead a modern 293cc liquid-cooled engine will do duty on the Jawa and Jawa 42 producing 27 horsepower. The Perak will have a higher displacement 334cc version of the same engine with 30 horsepower. The motorcycles will be priced at between Rs 1.55 lakh to Rs 1.89 lakh.
Speaking at the launch, Anand Mahindra, Chairman, Mahindra Group and an investor in Classic Legends said that it was rare to get the opportunity to resurrect a legend. Incidentally, Mahindra Two-Wheelers is the contract manufacturer for Classic Legends.
Anupam Thareja, Founder, Classic Legends believes that the Jawa brand will appeal to young millennials as well. “An idea how much people are anticipating this brand is the response we got for dealerships. We have signed on 105 dealerships in 71 cities across India. There are already some 70 Classic Jawa clubs in India engaging 40,000 people. I think there is a great opportunity in this market.”
Classic Legends is also bullish about other brands, Thareja revealed that talks were on revive the Yezdi brand as well and the company also has the brand rights to BSA, the classic British brand. “Obviously we are going after nostalgia but are main appeal to customers will be our honesty and authenticity.”
However, with Royal Enfield launching their new 650cc twin-cylinder motorcycles earlier this week to rave reviews and at an aggressive price point below Rs 3 lakh, Classic Legends has a problem on its hands even before the first production motorcycles leave the line. However, the company’s management feels that there is enough space for two players and brands in the Indian market.
