The Honda CB350 (H’Ness CB350) was Honda’s answer to the Royal Enfield Classic 350 — a retro-styled 350cc motorcycle with Honda’s legendary reliability, modern electronics, and premium build quality. Positioned above the Royal Enfield in terms of fit and finish but competing directly on character and price, the CB350 has carved a loyal following among riders who appreciate Honda’s engineering precision with classic motorcycle aesthetics. We review the CB350 DLX Pro after 12 months and 14,000 km of ownership.
Key Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine | 348.36cc, Single-cylinder, Air+Oil Cooled, SOHC |
| Max Power | 21.07 PS @ 5,500 rpm |
| Max Torque | 30 Nm @ 3,000 rpm |
| Claimed Mileage | 45.5 kmpl |
| Kerb Weight | 181 kg |
| Seat Height | 800 mm |
| Fuel Tank | 15 litres |
| Starting Price | ₹2.04 lakh (ex-showroom) |
Design & Styling
The Honda CB350’s design is a masterclass in retro authenticity. The round LED headlamp in a chrome ring, wide fuel tank with Honda wing emblem, the two-tone seat, chrome exhausts, and spoked wheels combine to create a motorcycle that looks timeless without feeling dated. Build quality is Honda’s trademark: panel gaps are tight, chrome is consistently applied, and the overall fit and finish exceeds the Royal Enfield Classic 350 noticeably. Available in Precious Red, Pearl Igneous Black, and Matte Axis Grey Metallic. The DLX Pro variant adds premium chrome detailing and a USB charging port.
Engine & Performance
The 348cc single-cylinder is the CB350’s heart — smooth, torquey, and characterful without being as thumpy as the Royal Enfield J-series. 30 Nm at just 3,000 rpm means the power is always accessible: excellent torque for city traffic, relaxed highway cruising, and hilly terrain. Honda’s refinement is immediately apparent — the engine is significantly smoother than the Royal Enfield at highway speeds (80–90 km/h). Top speed: approximately 120 km/h. The CB350 isn’t built for speed — it’s built for character, confidence, and long-distance relaxation.
Mileage & Fuel Economy
Over 14,000 km: city: 32–36 kmpl; highway: 40–44 kmpl; overall: 37.5 kmpl. The 15-litre fuel tank provides approximately 540–660 km of highway range — among the best range per fill of any motorcycle in India. Monthly fuel costs for a 30 km/day commuter: approximately ₹2,800–3,400. Excellent economy for a 350cc motorcycle.
Ride Quality & Handling
Honda’s suspension — telescopic forks at the front, twin rear shocks — is on the softer side. City road irregularities are absorbed well. Highway cruising is composed. However, the CB350 doesn’t invite aggressive cornering — the suspension setup, combined with the motorcycle’s character, encourages relaxed riding. At 181 kg, it’s heavier than the RE Hunter 350, though lighter than the Classic 350 DLX. For the intended riding style — gentle touring and urban commuting — the CB350’s suspension is well-matched.
Features & Technology
Honda Smartphone Voice Control System (HSVC): the CB350 can respond to voice commands via a Bluetooth-connected helmet mic — calling, navigation, music, and turn-by-turn directions. Dual-channel ABS. LED lighting. Honda Road Sync app connectivity. USB type-C charging on DLX Pro. The voice control system is genuinely impressive — working reliably even in highway wind noise when using a compatible helmet communicator. It sets the CB350 apart from any Royal Enfield in terms of technological sophistication.
Comfort & Ergonomics
The CB350’s wide, padded dual seat and upright riding position make it genuinely comfortable for long distances. The seat height of 800 mm is accessible for most Indian riders. After 14,000 km, the saddle has not hardened — Honda’s seat foam quality is appreciably superior to Royal Enfield’s. Long-distance touring up to 600+ km is genuinely comfortable with appropriate breaks. The wide handlebar, relaxed ergonomics, and Honda’s suspension make the CB350 the most comfortable 350cc motorcycle available for Indian riding conditions.
Safety
Dual-channel ABS is standard. The front petal disc and rear drum combination provides competent stopping. Honda’s ABS calibration is well-matched to the CB350’s character — intervening confidently in emergency situations without feeling intrusive in normal riding.
Price & Variants
- Standard: ₹2.04 lakh
- DLX: ₹2.08 lakh
- DLX Pro: ₹2.14 lakh
Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Honda reliability — best in segment | Heavier than RE Hunter 350 (181 kg) |
| Honda Voice Control — unique feature | More expensive than RE Classic 350 base |
| Best seat comfort in 350cc class | Rear drum brake on most variants |
| 15L tank — best range in segment | Doesn’t handle as aggressively as Hunter 350 |
| Superior build quality vs Royal Enfield | Honda dealer network less extensive than RE in rural areas |
Who Should Buy It?
The Honda CB350 is the choice for long-distance tourers and daily commuters who value reliability, comfort, and refinement above all else. If you’re torn between the Royal Enfield Classic 350 and the CB350, choose the CB350 for superior build quality, the voice control system, better seat comfort, and Honda’s legendary engine longevity. Choose the Classic 350 if RE’s community, dealer network in your area, and the specific thumpy character appeal more. Both are excellent — the CB350 is the engineering choice; the Classic 350 is the cultural choice. Rating: 8.8/10.
