Honda CB 350: In the fiercely competitive mid-size motorcycle segment in India, the Honda CB 350 has emerged as a formidable contender, challenging the decades-long dominance of the iconic Royal Enfield Bullet.
With its robust design, powerful performance, and modern features wrapped in a neo-retro package, the CB 350 has captured the attention of enthusiasts looking for a “dhakad” (powerful and impressive) alternative to the traditional thumper.
Honda CB 350 Commanding Presence: The Dhakad Look
The Honda CB 350 makes an immediate impression with its muscular and imposing stance. The design language perfectly balances modern engineering with classic aesthetics, creating a motorcycle that feels both fresh and timeless.
The round LED headlamp, flanked by distinctive LED winkers, establishes a strong front profile that commands attention on the road.
The fuel tank is generously proportioned and features elegant curves complemented by sharp character lines, giving the motorcycle a substantial presence without appearing bulky.
Chrome accents on the fenders, exhaust, and side panels add a premium touch while paying homage to classic motorcycle design.
The neatly tucked exhaust with its dual-chamber setup not only looks sophisticated but also contributes to the bike’s distinctive sound signature.
The attention to detail is evident in every aspect of the motorcycle’s design. From the meticulously crafted handlebar grips to the premium switchgear and the elegant instrument console, Honda has ensured that the CB 350 exudes quality and craftsmanship.
The thoughtfully designed saddle with its classic stitching pattern not only enhances the vintage appeal but also provides excellent comfort for both rider and pillion.
Available in striking color options including Pearl Night Star Black, Matte Steel Black Metallic, and Athletic Blue Metallic, the CB 350 allows riders to choose a look that matches their personal style while maintaining its distinctive character.
The alloy wheels (or spoke wheels in certain variants) with their polished finish further enhance the premium aesthetic of the motorcycle.
Heart of a Warrior: Performance that Impresses
Beneath the classic exterior lies a thoroughly modern powertrain that forms the heart of the CB 350’s “dhakad” character. The 348.36cc, air-cooled, single-cylinder engine produces 21.07 PS at 5,500 rpm and an impressive 30 Nm of torque at just 3,000 rpm.
These figures not only surpass those of the Royal Enfield Bullet 350 (20.4 PS and 27 Nm) but also deliver the power in a more refined and accessible manner.
The engine’s character is defined by its strong mid-range torque, which provides effortless acceleration and excellent rideability in various conditions.
Whether navigating through congested city traffic or cruising on open highways, the CB 350 responds with an eagerness that instills confidence in the rider. The five-speed transmission offers precise shifts and well-spaced ratios that make the most of the engine’s power characteristics.
One of the most remarkable aspects of the CB 350’s performance is its refinement. Unlike its competitors that are often plagued by vibrations at higher speeds, the Honda employs advanced counterbalancing technology that significantly reduces vibrations, resulting in a smoother ride experience even during extended journeys.
This refinement doesn’t come at the expense of character—the exhaust note is deep and throaty, providing the authentic thump that enthusiasts crave without being excessively loud.
Fuel efficiency, a crucial consideration for Indian riders, is another area where the CB 350 excels. With a claimed mileage of approximately 42 kmpl (compared to the Bullet 350’s 37 kmpl), the Honda offers better economy despite its superior performance figures.
The 15-liter fuel tank ensures an impressive range of over 600 kilometers on a single fill, making it an excellent companion for long-distance touring.
Rider-Focused Engineering: Comfort and Handling
The CB 350’s engineering excellence extends to its chassis and suspension setup, which strike an optimal balance between comfort and handling precision.
The half-duplex cradle frame provides excellent stability while keeping the weight in check at 187 kg (compared to the Bullet 350’s 195 kg). This lighter weight translates to better maneuverability, especially in urban environments where agility is paramount.
The suspension system, featuring telescopic forks at the front and twin shock absorbers at the rear, is tuned to absorb road imperfections effectively while maintaining composure during spirited riding.
The setup provides a plush ride on typical Indian roads without compromising handling precision when the pace increases or when negotiating winding sections.
Braking duties are handled by a 310mm disc with a 2-piston caliper at the front and a 240mm disc with a 1-piston caliper at the rear, offering strong stopping power with excellent modulation.
The dual-channel ABS enhances safety by preventing wheel lock-up during emergency braking situations, a feature that gives the CB 350 an edge over base variants of some competitors.
The riding ergonomics have been thoughtfully designed to provide comfort during extended journeys while maintaining an engaged riding position. The wide handlebar offers excellent leverage for maneuvering, while the mid-set footpegs strike a balance between comfort and control.
The seat is well-padded and shaped to provide support during long rides, and at 800mm, the seat height is accessible for riders of various statures.
Modern Features in a Classic Package
Where the CB 350 truly distinguishes itself from the Royal Enfield Bullet is in its incorporation of modern technology within its classic design. The Honda Smartphone Voice Control System (HSVCS) enables riders to connect their smartphones via Bluetooth and access various functions including navigation, music playback, and calls through voice commands, all displayed on the neat semi-digital instrument console.
The full-LED lighting setup, including the headlamp, tail lamp, and turn indicators, provides excellent visibility while consuming less power and enhancing the motorcycle’s modern appeal.
The assist and slipper clutch reduces lever effort, making city riding less fatiguing, while also preventing rear wheel hop during aggressive downshifts—a feature typically found in higher displacement motorcycles.
Honda’s Selectable Torque Control (HSTC), essentially a traction control system, monitors wheel speeds and intervenes by reducing torque when wheelspin is detected, enhancing safety on slippery surfaces.
This advanced rider aid is unheard of in this segment and underscores Honda’s commitment to incorporating cutting-edge technology in their offerings.
Other thoughtful features include hazard lights, an engine stop switch, a side-stand indicator with engine inhibitor, and a service due indicator that reminds riders when maintenance is needed.
The all-metal construction of components like the fenders and side panels ensures durability while staying true to the classic aesthetic.
Ownership Experience: Beyond the Product
Honda’s renowned reputation for reliability and quality engineering extends to the CB 350, providing owners with peace of mind that comes from Japanese engineering excellence.
The motorcycle’s build quality is evident in the consistent panel gaps, robust switchgear, and premium paint finish that maintains its luster over time.
Maintenance requirements are minimal, with service intervals spaced at 6,000 kilometers—longer than most competitors. When service is required, Honda’s extensive dealership network ensures that qualified technicians and genuine parts are readily available.
The company’s focus on reducing maintenance costs is reflected in features like the automatic headlamp on (AHO) instead of daytime running lights, which reduces the frequency of bulb replacements.
The warranty coverage of 3 years (extendable to 5 years) provides additional reassurance, reflecting Honda’s confidence in their product. This comprehensive approach to the ownership experience addresses one of the key pain points of the segment—reliability and maintenance concerns—that have historically plagued some competitors.
The Road Ahead: Challenging Established Royalty
With the CB 350, Honda has made a bold statement in a segment that has been synonymous with Royal Enfield for decades. By offering superior performance, modern features, and Japanese reliability without sacrificing the classic appeal and character that enthusiasts desire, the CB 350 presents a compelling alternative that has forced even the segment leader to step up their game.
The pricing strategy, while positioning the CB 350 slightly higher than the Bullet 350, justifies the premium through tangible benefits in terms of performance, features, and refinement.
For riders who appreciate the classic aesthetic but aren’t willing to compromise on modern engineering and reliability, the Honda offers a “dhakad” package that challenges the established order.
As the mid-size motorcycle segment continues to evolve, with riders becoming increasingly discerning and expecting more from their machines, the Honda CB 350 stands as a testament to what’s possible when tradition meets innovation.
It respects the heritage of classic motorcycling while embracing the advancements that enhance the riding experience, creating a package that’s not just a worthy challenger to the Bullet but potentially the new benchmark in its class.
Honda CB 350 Conclusion: A New Icon in the Making
The Honda CB 350 represents more than just a new motorcycle model—it signals a shift in the segment where heritage alone is no longer sufficient.
By blending classic design with modern engineering, powerful performance with everyday usability, and premium features with competitive pricing, Honda has created a motorcycle that appeals to both traditionalists and forward-looking enthusiasts.
Its “dhakad” character isn’t just about raw power or intimidating presence; it’s about confidence in its engineering, pride in its craftsmanship, and the authentic riding experience it delivers.
Whether it’s turning heads in urban environments, conquering long highways, or exploring winding country roads, the CB 350 handles it all with a composure and character that’s distinctly its own.
For riders seeking an alternative to the Royal Enfield Bullet that retains the soul of classic motorcycling while embracing modern advancements, the Honda CB 350 presents a compelling proposition.
It’s not merely a competitor; it’s a new interpretation of what a modern-classic motorcycle can and should be—powerful, refined, feature-rich, and above all, genuinely enjoyable to ride.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: How does the Honda CB 350’s performance compare to the Royal Enfield Bullet 350?
The Honda CB 350 produces 21.07 PS at 5,500 rpm and 30 Nm torque at 3,000 rpm, outperforming the Royal Enfield Bullet 350’s 20.4 PS and 27 Nm. Beyond the numbers, the Honda delivers power more smoothly with significantly fewer vibrations at higher speeds, offering a more refined riding experience without sacrificing character.
Q: What is the fuel efficiency of the Honda CB 350?
The Honda CB 350 delivers an impressive fuel efficiency of approximately 42 kmpl under mixed riding conditions, which is better than the Royal Enfield Bullet 350’s 37 kmpl. Combined with its 15-liter fuel tank, this gives the CB 350 a range of over 600 kilometers on a single fill, making it excellent for touring.
Q: Does the Honda CB 350 retain the characteristic “thump” sound that Royal Enfield motorcycles are known for?
Yes, despite its refined nature, the Honda CB 350 produces a distinctive deep, throaty exhaust note thanks to its dual-chamber exhaust system. While different from the Royal Enfield’s signature thump, it provides its own characterful sound that many riders find equally appealing and less intrusive during long rides.
Q: What modern features does the Honda CB 350 offer that aren’t available on the Royal Enfield Bullet?
The CB 350 comes equipped with modern features including full-LED lighting, Honda Smartphone Voice Control System (HSVCS) with Bluetooth connectivity, assist and slipper clutch, Honda Selectable Torque Control (traction control), dual-channel ABS, and a semi-digital instrument console. These features are either unavailable or only offered in higher-priced Royal Enfield variants.
Q: Is the Honda CB 350 comfortable for long-distance touring?
Absolutely. The CB 350’s ergonomics are designed for comfort during extended journeys, with a well-padded seat, neutral riding position, and effective vibration damping. The suspension is tuned to absorb road imperfections while maintaining stability, and the strong mid-range torque makes highway cruising effortless without frequent gear changes.
Q: How does the weight of the Honda CB 350 compare to the Royal Enfield Bullet 350?
The Honda CB 350 weighs approximately 187 kg, making it about 8 kg lighter than the Royal Enfield Bullet 350’s 195 kg. This lower weight contributes to better handling, especially in urban environments where maneuverability is important, while still providing stability on highways.
Q: What are the color options available for the Honda CB 350?
The Honda CB 350 is available in several striking colors including Pearl Night Star Black, Matte Steel Black Metallic, Athletic Blue Metallic, Pearl Igneous Black, and Matte Marshal Green Metallic. These options allow riders to choose a look that matches their personal style while maintaining the motorcycle’s distinctive character.
Q: What is the warranty period offered with the Honda CB 350?
Honda offers a standard 3-year warranty with the CB 350, which can be extended to 5 years for additional peace of mind. This comprehensive coverage reflects Honda’s confidence in the motorcycle’s build quality and reliability, and exceeds the warranty offerings of many competitors in the segment.
Q: How does the maintenance cost of the Honda CB 350 compare to the Royal Enfield Bullet 350?
The Honda CB 350 typically enjoys lower maintenance costs due to Honda’s renowned engineering quality and the motorcycle’s longer service intervals of 6,000 kilometers. Components are designed for durability, and the proven reliability of Honda engines typically results in fewer issues and repairs over the ownership period compared to some of its competitors.
Q: Is the Honda CB 350 suitable for riders of different heights?
With a seat height of approximately 800mm and a comfortable ergonomic triangle, the Honda CB 350 accommodates riders of various heights. The seat is narrow at the front, allowing shorter riders to place their feet on the ground easily, while taller riders will find the spacious seat and relaxed riding position comfortable for extended journeys.