Honda CB 350 : In a bold move that’s set to redefine the mid-size motorcycle segment, Honda has unveiled its latest offering – the new and improved CB350.
This neo-retro masterpiece seamlessly blends classic styling with cutting-edge technology, promising to captivate both nostalgic riders and modern enthusiasts alike.
Let’s delve into what makes the new Honda CB350 a game-changer in the competitive world of motorcycling.
Honda CB 350 A Design That Turns Heads
The new CB350 is a visual treat, paying homage to Honda’s rich heritage while embracing contemporary design elements:
Timeless Silhouette: The CB350 retains the iconic teardrop tank and long, flat seat that characterized its predecessors, evoking memories of the golden age of motorcycling.
Modern LED Lighting: Full LED lighting, including a distinctive horseshoe-shaped DRL (Daytime Running Light), gives the bike a premium look and enhances visibility.
Retro-Modern Instrument Cluster: A clever blend of analog and digital displays provides essential information with a touch of nostalgia.
Premium Finish: Chrome accents on the exhaust, mirrors, and fenders contrast beautifully with the deep, glossy paint options available.
Honda CB 350 Heart of the Beast: Performance Redefined
Underneath its classic exterior, the CB350 houses a thoroughly modern powerplant:
Engine Specifications:
348.36cc air-cooled, single-cylinder engine
21 PS of power at 5,500 RPM
30 Nm of torque at 3,000 RPM
Selectable Torque Control (Honda’s traction control system)
Transmission:
5-speed gearbox
Assist and slipper clutch for smoother shifts and reduced wheel hop during aggressive downshifts
Fuel Efficiency:
Claimed mileage of 45.8 km/l, making it one of the most fuel-efficient bikes in its class
Ride Modes:
Three selectable ride modes: Rain, Urban, and Sport, each altering the power delivery and traction control intervention
Honda CB 350 Chassis and Suspension: Balancing Act
Honda has paid special attention to the CB350’s handling characteristics:
Frame: A half-duplex cradle frame provides the perfect balance of rigidity and flex, ensuring stable handling without compromising ride comfort.
Suspension:
Front: 41mm telescopic forks with 130mm travel
Rear: Twin shock absorbers with 5-step preload adjustability
Brakes:
Front: 310mm disc with twin-piston caliper
Rear: 240mm disc with single-piston caliper
Dual-channel ABS as standard
Wheels and Tires:
19-inch front and 18-inch rear spoke wheels
Tubeless tires for enhanced safety and convenience
Honda CB 350 Technology Integration: Old School Meets New Cool
The CB350 is packed with features that cater to the modern rider:
Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC): Adjustable traction control system that can be turned off for purists.
Honda Smartphone Voice Control System (HSVCS): Bluetooth connectivity allows riders to access navigation, music, and calls via voice commands.
Turn-by-Turn Navigation: When paired with the Honda RoadSync app, the instrument cluster can display turn-by-turn navigation instructions.
USB Charging Port: Conveniently located under the seat for keeping devices charged on the go.
Emergency Stop Signal (ESS): Automatically activates hazard lamps under hard braking, alerting following vehicles.
Honda CB 350 Comfort and Ergonomics: All-Day Rideability
Despite its sporty pretensions, the CB350 doesn’t compromise on comfort:
Upright Riding Position: Wide handlebars and neutrally positioned footpegs ensure a comfortable riding posture for both city commutes and highway jaunts.
Seat Design: A wide, well-padded seat accommodates riders of various sizes comfortably.
Vibration Control: Engine counterbalancer and rubber-mounted handlebars minimize vibrations, reducing rider fatigue on long rides.
Wind Protection: An optional small windscreen is available for those who prefer additional wind deflection.
Honda CB 350 Customization: Make It Your Own
Understanding the importance of personalization in the neo-retro segment, Honda offers a range of genuine accessories:
Aesthetic Enhancements: Various seat options, handlebar styles, and body graphics allow riders to tailor the look of their CB350.
Practical Add-ons: Saddlebags, top box, engine guards, and heated grips cater to touring enthusiasts.
Performance Upgrades: A slip-on exhaust system and high-flow air filter are available for those seeking a bit more grunt and a sportier exhaust note.
Honda CB 350 Market Positioning and Competition
The Honda CB350 enters a fiercely competitive segment, going head-to-head with established players:
Royal Enfield Classic 350: The segment leader, known for its strong heritage and cult following.
Jawa 350: Another retro-styled offering that has gained popularity since its relaunch.
Benelli Imperiale 400: A slightly larger engine, but competing in the same neo-retro space.
Upcoming Harley-Davidson X350: Developed in partnership with QJ Motor, set to enter the same segment.
Honda’s strategy appears to be offering a more refined, feature-rich package while maintaining competitive pricing. The CB350’s blend of classic looks, modern technology, and Honda’s reputation for reliability could give it a significant edge in this segment.
Honda CB 350 Pricing and Variants
The Honda CB350 is available in three variants:
DLX: The base model, priced at ₹2,10,000 (ex-showroom)
DLX Pro: Mid-tier variant with additional features, priced at ₹2,15,000 (ex-showroom)
DLX Pro+: Top-of-the-line model with all bells and whistles, priced at ₹2,20,000 (ex-showroom)
This competitive pricing strategy puts the CB350 right in the midst of its rivals, offering excellent value for money considering its feature set and brand value.
Honda CB 350 Initial Reception and Reviews
Early reviews of the Honda CB350 have been overwhelmingly positive:
Ride Quality: Journalists have praised the bike’s smooth power delivery and well-tuned suspension, noting its ability to soak up road imperfections with ease.
Build Quality: As expected from Honda, the fit and finish of the CB350 have received high marks, with reviewers noting the premium feel of switches and controls.
Technology Integration: The inclusion of modern features like traction control and smartphone connectivity in a retro-styled package has been well-received.
Sound: The exhaust note, a crucial aspect for many retro bike enthusiasts, has been described as “throaty” and “satisfying” without being overly loud.
Handling: The CB350’s nimble handling in city traffic and stability on highways have been highlighted as strong points.
Honda CB 350 Environmental Considerations
In line with growing environmental concerns and stricter emission norms:
Emissions Compliance: The CB350 is BS6 compliant, meeting the latest and most stringent emission standards in India.
Fuel Efficiency: Its impressive fuel economy contributes to a lower carbon footprint compared to larger-engined alternatives.
Longevity: Honda’s reputation for building durable engines means the CB350 is likely to have a long service life, reducing the environmental impact of frequent replacements.
Honda CB 350 The Road Ahead: Future Prospects
The launch of the CB350 signals Honda’s serious intentions in the mid-size motorcycle segment:
Potential Variants: Industry insiders speculate about the possibility of café racer or scrambler versions of the CB350 in the future, expanding the platform’s appeal.
Export Markets: Given the global appeal of neo-retro motorcycles, Honda might consider exporting the CB350 to other markets, potentially under different names (like the GB350 in Japan).
Technology Trickle-down: Successful features from the CB350 could find their way into other Honda models, elevating the entire lineup.
Honda CB 350 Conclusion: A New Chapter in Mid-size Motorcycling
The Honda CB350 represents more than just a new model launch; it’s a statement of intent from one of the world’s leading motorcycle manufacturers.
By seamlessly blending retro aesthetics with modern technology and performance, Honda has created a motorcycle that appeals to a wide range of riders – from nostalgic enthusiasts to tech-savvy millennials looking for a stylish and capable machine.
The CB350’s entry into the market is likely to shake up the segment, pushing competitors to innovate and improve their offerings. For consumers, this means more choices, better features, and ultimately, better value for money.
As the dust settles from its launch, all eyes will be on how the CB350 performs in the real world and in the sales charts. If initial reactions are anything to go by, Honda might just have a winner on its hands.
The CB350 not only pays homage to Honda’s rich motorcycling heritage but also paves the way for the future of mid-size motorcycles – a future where style, technology, and performance coexist in perfect harmony.