1968 Jawa Californian 250 Technical Analysis & Specification Breakdown
Built around Jawa's sport motorcycle platform, the 1968 Jawa Californian 250 features a 248 cc (15.1 cu in) air-cooled single cylinder, two-stroke configuration. In factory specification, peak output is rated at 16 HP (11.7 kW) at 5,000 rpm, transferring power to the rear wheel through a 4-speed gearbox and chain final drive. With a specific output of 64.5 HP per liter, the engine character is indicating a tractable, stress-free state of tune focused on everyday usability and broad torque delivery.
On the scales, the Californian 250 measures 128 kg (282 lbs) dry, translating to a power-to-weight ratio of 0.13 HP/kg (8 kg per horsepower). Rider ergonomics and chassis geometry center around a 760 mm (29.9 in) seat height — giving shorter riders and urban commuters confident flat-foot reach at traffic stops. The 15-liter (4 US gal) fuel tank supports practical everyday commuting and weekend road stints, while factory top speed is listed at 110 km/h (68 mph).
Within MotoLibrary's Jawa archive, this model family spans 2 indexed model years from 1967 to 1968, allowing buyers to track year-over-year changes in emissions tuning, weight and equipment.
Specific Output
64.5 HP/L
Power-to-Weight
0.13 HP/kg (8 kg/HP)
Standover Height
760 mm (29.9 in)
Engine
Displacement248.0 ccm (15.13 cubic inches)
Engine TypeSingle cylinder, two-stroke
Engine DetailsTwin, two-stroke
Power16.0 HP (11.7 kW)) @ 5000 RPM
Compression8.0:1
Bore x Stroke65.0 x 75.0 mm (2.6 x 3.0 inches)
Fuel SystemCarburettor
CoolingAir
Transmission
Gearbox4-speed
Final DriveChain (final drive)
Performance
Top Speed110.0 km/h (68.4 mph)
Chassis
Front SuspensionTelescopic
Rear SuspensionSwingarm
Wheels & Brakes
Front Tyre3.25-19
Rear Tyre3.25-19
Front BrakesExpanding brake (drum brake)
Rear BrakesExpanding brake (drum brake)
WheelsSpoked
Dimensions & Weight
Dry Weight128.0 kg (282.2 pounds)
Power/Weight0.1250 HP/kg
Seat Height760 mm (29.9 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting.
Use this page to compare this motorcycle by its real specifications, not only by model name. Focus on the details that affect fit, comfort, handling, range and ownership.
Power
Compare engine output with similar motorcycles if acceleration, highway use or two-up riding matters.
Seat Height
Check the seat height against your inseam and riding posture before choosing a motorcycle.
Weight
Compare weight carefully because it affects low-speed handling, parking and confidence.
Fuel Capacity
Fuel capacity helps estimate touring range and how often you may need to stop.
Brakes
Brake setup is worth comparing if you ride in traffic, mountains or with a passenger.
Suspension
Suspension details can matter for comfort, road feel and long-distance riding.
Transmission
Transmission and final drive affect maintenance, smoothness and everyday usability.
