Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India has fired up the traditional motorcycle space with the new Honda CB350. Modeled to compete against Royal Enfield and Jawa, the retro-modern motorcycle combines age-old design with high-end technology and performance. In this blog, we delve into every detail — specifications, features, prices, and riding experience.
Engine & Performance: Designed for City and Highway
The Honda CB350 gets its power from a 348.36cc air-cooled single-cylinder engine, which produces:
- Power: 20.78 PS @ 5,500 rpm
- Torque: 30 Nm @ 3,000 rpm
- Transmission: 5-speed transmission with assist & slipper clutch
The arrangement is smooth to ride, the low-end torque is impressive, and cruising feels relaxed — ideal for daily city rides and touring too.
Design & Build: Retro Aesthetics with Modern Finish
- The Honda CB350 captures 70s-roadster style with:
- Teardrop-shaped fuel tank
- Round LED headlamp
- Chrome-plated exhaust
- Metal tank badging and fenders
It comes in several color variations with dual-tone and matte finishes that enhance its classic road presence. Honda’s attention to craftsmanship is evident in the attention to detail of the paintwork and build quality.
Technology & Features: Modern Where It Matters
While its retro look has charm, the Honda CB350 comes loaded with some remarkable technology:
- Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC) – controls rear-wheel slip
- Dual-channel ABS – for greater safety during braking
- Bluetooth voice control compatibility (DLX Pro version)
- Emergency Stop Signal – automatically activates hazard lights on hard braking
- Assist and slipper clutch – for seamless gear shifting
- These are the features that give the CB350 an edge over most rivals in the retro class.
Comfort & Ride Quality
The Honda CB350 is suspended on a double cradle frame, providing strength as well as stability. Main ride comfort features:
- Telescopic front forks
- Twin rear hydraulic shock absorbers
- Long wide seat for rider comfort
- Relaxed upright handlebar – perfect for long rides
Rider comfort is best, but the pillion seat can seem narrow for longer journeys. Nevertheless, overall ergonomics encourage fatigue-free riding.
Brakes, Tyres & Suspension
- Front Disc: 310mm with ABS
- Rear Disc: 240mm with ABS
- Front Tyre: 100/90-19
- Rear Tyre: 130/70-18
The tyres offer a good grip on highways and undulating roads, and the suspension configuration makes for a comfortable ride even on Indian roads.
Variants & Price
Honda retails the CB350 in two variants:
1. CB350 DLX – ₹1.99 lakh (Ex-showroom)
2. CB350 DLX Pro – ₹2.17 lakh (Ex-showroom)
Both the variants share the same engine, while the DLX Pro includes features such as Honda voice control and premium quality finishes.
There’s also the CB350RS – sportier in nature, with a more aggressive look, blacked-out components, and marginally altered riding ergonomics.
Competition: Where It Stands
- Honda CB350 – 348cc – 20.78 PS – 30 Nm – ₹1.99 lakh
- Royal Enfield Classic 350 – 349cc – 20.2 PS – 27 Nm – ₹1.93 lakh
- Jawa 42 – 293cc – 27.3 PS – 26.8 Nm – ₹1.97 lakh
- Yezdi Roadster – 334cc – 29.7 PS – 29 Nm – ₹2.06 lakh
Honda excels at refinement, tech, and smooth engine performance, which makes it a perfect choice for city riders as well as tourers.
Pros and Cons
Pros
1. Excellent engine refinement
2. Comfortable ergonomics
3. Loaded with modern tech
4. Great build quality
5. Honda service reliability
Cons
1. Pillion comfort could be better
2. Headlight performance in night riding is average
3. Slight rust issues if not maintained in monsoon
Offers, Warranty & Availability
- Current Offers: ₹15,000 off on chosen variants (June 2025 onwards)
- Warranty: 3 years normal + optional maximum 7 years extended
- Available At: Honda BigWing outlets in India
Final Verdict: Who Should Buy the Honda CB350?
If you are a fan of retro-styled motorcycles but also seek contemporary features, refined engine performance, and Honda’s dependability, the CB350 is a great option in the 350cc segment. It’s a deserving substitute for Royal Enfield and Jawa motorcycles — superior honed, high-tech, and long-lasting.
