In the age of high-performance sportbikes and adventure tourers, the Honda CB 350 stands as a proud torchbearer of classic motorcycling charm. First launched in India as the H’ness CB350, this retro-styled roadster blends iconic 1970s-inspired aesthetics with modern-day engineering to create a riding experience that’s both nostalgic and thoroughly contemporary. Whether you’re a new rider looking for a stylish everyday machine or a seasoned enthusiast craving old-school vibes with new-age reliability, the Honda CB 350 makes a compelling case for itself.
A Glimpse into the Retro Era
From the moment you lay eyes on the Honda CB 350, the motorcycle evokes a sense of timeless elegance. With its sculpted fuel tank, round LED headlamp housed in chrome, contoured single-piece seat, and bold exhaust note, it pays tribute to the golden era of motorcycling. The bike draws design cues from Honda’s historic CB series, particularly the CB350 of the 1970s, which enjoyed global popularity for its durability and smooth performance.
Chrome touches, classic Honda badging, and the minimalist design further accentuate its vintage appeal. Yet, the CB 350 is no mere throwback—it smartly integrates these retro elements with practical modern touches.
Engine and Performance
At the heart of the Honda CB 350 lies a 348.36cc, single-cylinder, air-cooled engine that churns out around 20.8 bhp and 30 Nm of torque. While these numbers might not scream performance, the engine is tuned for strong low-end and mid-range torque—ideal for city riding and relaxed highway cruising.
The CB 350 features a 5-speed gearbox with an assist and slipper clutch, making gear shifts smoother and reducing fatigue during longer rides. The engine is refined, with minimal vibrations even at higher RPMs, thanks to Honda’s proven engineering prowess.
The standout feature, however, is the thumping exhaust note. Honda has worked extensively on the sound tuning of the bike, and the deep bass-rich note gives the rider a visceral connection to the machine—something that retro lovers will surely appreciate.
Ride and Handling
Built on a half-duplex cradle frame, the CB 350 offers a well-balanced ride. The front gets telescopic forks, while the rear is equipped with twin hydraulic shocks—both tuned for comfort. The suspension setup handles Indian roads well, soaking up bumps and potholes with ease.
With a 181 kg kerb weight, the bike feels planted on highways yet manageable in urban environments. The wide handlebars and upright seating posture provide excellent ergonomics, making it ideal for long-distance touring as well as daily commutes.
Braking duties are handled by a 310 mm disc up front and a 240 mm disc at the rear, assisted by dual-channel ABS, ensuring confidence-inspiring braking performance in all conditions.
Technology and Features
Despite its old-school design, the Honda CB 350 is equipped with several modern features. The digital-analogue instrument cluster offers essential information such as gear position, fuel level, and real-time mileage. It also includes Bluetooth connectivity through Honda Smartphone Voice Control system (HSVCS) in the DLX Pro and RS variants, allowing riders to access navigation, calls, and music.
Other notable features include:
- Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC): A form of traction control, rare in this segment.
- LED lighting all around.
- Side-stand engine cut-off.
- Engine start/stop switch for convenience and fuel saving.
All these features make the CB 350 not just a good-looking bike, but a smart, tech-savvy machine too.
Variants and Customization
Honda offers the CB 350 in a few variants: the standard H’ness CB 350 DLX, DLX Pro, and the CB 350 RS—a sportier version with a scrambler-like design. While the H’ness leans more toward retro classic styling, the RS variant is more aggressive and youthful, with a different seat, underbody exhaust, and color options.
Additionally, Honda offers a wide range of customization accessories, including chrome mirrors, touring seats, saddle stays, and more, allowing owners to personalize their ride according to their tastes.
Final Verdict: Why the CB 350 Deserves Your Attention
In a market filled with Royal Enfields, Jawas, and Yezdis, the Honda CB 350 sets itself apart through refinement, reliability, and balance. It may not be the most powerful or the most affordable retro bike out there, but it is arguably one of the most well-rounded. Honda’s legendary reliability, superior build quality, and thoughtful feature set make the CB 350 a compelling choice for anyone seeking a motorcycle that’s as easy to live with as it is fun to ride.
