
Jawa Californian 350
Key specifications
Overview
Introducing the 1968 Jawa Californian 350, a captivating motorcycle that epitomizes the spirit of the late '60s with its sleek design and exhilarating performance. Positioned in the sport category, the Californian 350 is more than just a bike; it’s a statement of freedom and adventure that beckons riders with its blend of classic styling and formidable engineering. Jawa, a brand known for its rich heritage and strong European roots, crafted this model to appeal to those who seek both functionality and flair, making it a desirable choice for motorcycle enthusiasts and collectors alike. At the heart of the Jawa Californian 350 lies a robust twin-cylinder, two-stroke engine with a displacement of 343 ccm, producing a spirited 28 HP at 5250 RPM. This powerplant offers impressive acceleration and a top speed of 120 km/h (74.6 mph), ensuring that riders can enjoy a thrilling experience on open roads. The engine's bore and stroke measurements—55.0 x 58.0 mm—contribute to its dynamic performance, while the carburettor fuel system ensures smooth power delivery. Riders will appreciate the air-cooled design, which maintains simplicity and reliability while keeping the weight down, resulting in a nimble ride that feels agile through twisty roads and urban landscapes alike. The Californian 350 is equipped with a thoughtfully designed chassis that enhances both comfort and handling. With a telescopic front suspension and a swingarm rear suspension, the bike offers a balanced ride that absorbs bumps with ease, making it suitable for both long-distance cruising and spirited cornering. The chain final drive provides direct power transfer to the rear wheel, enhancing the bike’s responsiveness. Aesthetic flair is also a hallmark of the Californian, with its classic lines and distinctive Jawa styling that turn heads wherever it goes, embodying the vintage charm of the era. **
Pros
- Vintage Aesthetics: The timeless design and classic appeal make it a standout in any collection.
- Lightweight and Agile: The combination of a compact engine and a well-balanced chassis results in a nimble handling experience.
- Simple Maintenance: The air-cooled, two-stroke engine is straightforward to service, making it accessible for DIY mechanics.
Cons
- Limited Power for Some Riders: While 28 HP is spirited, it may not satisfy those seeking high-performance capabilities.
- Two-Stroke Characteristics: The two-stroke engine requires regular maintenance, including oil mixing for optimal performance.
- Vibration at High Speeds: Riders may experience increased vibration as speed climbs, which can diminish comfort over long distances.
Technical details
Source specification data
- Make
- Jawa
- Model
- Californian 350
- Category
- Sport
- Power
- 28.00 HP (20.4 kW)) @ 5250 RPM
- Top Speed
- 120.0 km/h (74.6 mph)
- Fuel System
- Carburettor
- Bore X Stroke
- 55.0 x 58.0 mm (2.2 x 2.3 inches)
- Displacement
- 343.00 ccm (20.93 cubic inches)
- Cooling System
- Air
- Engine Details
- Twin, two-stroke
- Transmission Type Final Drive
- Chain
- Wheels
- Spoked
- Rear Tyre
- 3.25-19
- Front Tyre
- 3.25-19
- Rear Suspension
- Swingarm
- Front Suspension
- Telescopic