Honda H’ness CB350 – Classic Looks, Japanese Precision
The Honda H’ness CB350 is a retro-modern motorcycle that combines vintage British styling with Honda’s legendary refinement, reliability, and cutting-edge technology. Launched as a direct competitor to the Royal Enfield Classic 350, the H’ness (short for “Highness”) offers a premium alternative in the 350cc segment — without compromising on comfort or performance.
With its signature thump, balanced chassis, and modern features like traction control and Bluetooth connectivity, the CB350 is not just about looks — it’s built for real-world riding, both in the city and on highways.
🛠️ Engine & Performance
At the heart of the H’ness CB350 lies a 348.36cc, single-cylinder, air-cooled engine, tuned for smooth torque delivery and a deep exhaust note — a rare combination of performance and finesse.
- Engine Type: 348.36cc, single-cylinder, air-cooled
- Maximum Power: 21.07 PS @ 5,500 rpm
- Maximum Torque: 30 Nm @ 3,000 rpm
- Transmission: 5-speed gearbox
- Top Speed: ~120–125 km/h
- 0–60 km/h: ~5 seconds
What makes this engine special is its refined character and ample low-end torque, ideal for effortless city commuting and stress-free cruising.
⛽ Mileage & Fuel Efficiency
The H’ness CB350 offers class-leading mileage for a 350cc motorcycle, thanks to Honda’s fuel-injection technology and balanced tuning.
- Claimed Mileage: 40–45 km/l
- Real-World Mileage: 38–42 km/l
- Fuel Tank Capacity: 15 liters
- Riding Range: 550–600+ km per tank
Its excellent fuel economy makes it a practical daily rider as well as a long-distance companion.
🎨 Design & Styling
The CB350 pays homage to Honda’s rich heritage with retro-inspired styling blended with subtle modern elements.
- Teardrop Fuel Tank with Chrome Accents
- Round LED Headlamp and Indicators
- Wide Handlebars with Upright Ergonomics
- Deeply Cushioned Seat and Dual Shock Rear Setup
- Chrome Fenders, Exhaust, and Engine Casings
- Color Options: Precious Red Metallic, Pearl Night Star Black, Matte Marshal Green, and more
The premium chrome detailing and overall finish make the CB350 one of the most elegant bikes in the retro segment.
⚙️ Features & Technology
Unlike most retro motorcycles, the H’ness CB350 is tech-savvy and safety-focused, offering features rarely seen in this category.
- ✅ Full LED Lighting (Headlamp, Indicators, Tail Light)
- ✅ Honda Smartphone Voice Control System (HSVCS)
- ✅ Bluetooth Connectivity (for Navigation, Calls, Music)
- ✅ Assist & Slipper Clutch
- ✅ Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC – Traction Control)
- ✅ Semi-Digital Console with Gear Position, Trip, and Battery Info
- ✅ Dual-Channel ABS
It’s the only 350cc retro motorcycle with traction control, which enhances stability, especially on slippery surfaces.
🪑 Ride Comfort & Handling
The H’ness CB350 is designed for daily comfort and long-haul riding, with one of the most comfortable seats in its class.
- Seat Height: 800 mm – accessible for most Indian riders
- Kerb Weight: 181 kg
- Suspension:
- Front: Telescopic Forks
- Rear: Twin Hydraulic Shocks with Preload Adjust
- Tyres (Tubeless):
- Front: 100/90-19
- Rear: 130/70-18
- Wheelbase: 1,441 mm
The balanced chassis, soft suspension, and wide seat make the CB350 a joy to ride on rough roads, flyovers, and long stretches of highway.
🛑 Braking & Safety
Safety is one of the H’ness CB350’s strong suits, with responsive braking and stability-focused features.
- Front Brake: 310 mm Disc
- Rear Brake: 240 mm Disc
- ABS: Dual-channel
- Traction Control: Standard on all variants
- Ground Clearance: 166 mm – decent for urban and semi-rough terrain
The slipper clutch and ABS+TCS combo add a layer of confidence during panic braking and wet riding.
💰 Price & Variants
The H’ness CB350 is offered in two main variants via Honda’s BigWing showrooms:
| Variant | Features | Ex-Showroom Price (Delhi) |
|---|---|---|
| DLX | Basic digital cluster, LED lights | ₹2.10 lakh |
| DLX Pro | Bluetooth + HSVCS + more finishes | ₹2.15 lakh |
| DLX Pro Chrome | Chrome tank, premium finishes | ₹2.16 lakh |
On-road prices range between ₹2.35 – ₹2.55 lakh, depending on the variant and city.
✅ Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Excellent engine refinement and smooth ride | Limited service network (BigWing-only) |
| Retro styling with Honda quality fit & finish | Higher price than RE Classic 350 |
| Tech-loaded with Bluetooth, traction control | No navigation display on console |
| Great fuel efficiency in the 350cc class | Misses a 6th gear |
| Comfortable riding posture for long tours | Slightly soft suspension over bad potholes |
🔄 Competitors
The Honda H’ness CB350 competes with:
- Royal Enfield Classic 350 – More retro, broader network
- RE Meteor 350 – Cruiser feel, Tripper nav
- Jawa 42 – Sportier styling, less refinement
- Yezdi Roadster – Stronger power, lesser finesse
- TVS Ronin 225 – Feature-rich, but less classic
While other bikes excel in price or raw performance, the CB350 leads in refinement, comfort, and feature quality.
🏁 Final Verdict
The Honda H’ness CB350 is a premium, modern-retro motorcycle that brings together timeless styling, superior refinement, and advanced features. It’s the ideal bike for those who want Royal Enfield-like appeal but prefer Japanese reliability and smoothness.
If you’re looking for a motorcycle that’s easy to ride, packed with tech, and built to last, the CB350 is a worthy investment in the 350cc lifestyle segment.
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