The Honda CB 350 has made a significant impact on the Indian motorcycle market, blending power, style, and reliability into an impressive package. Whether you’re a daily commuter or an adventure enthusiast, the CB 350 offers a well-rounded experience that appeals to a broad range of riders. Let’s take a deep dive into what makes this bike a top contender in its segment.
Honda CB 350: Engine and Performance
At the core of the Honda CB 350 is a 348.36cc, single-cylinder, air-cooled engine that produces 21.07 PS of power and 30 Nm of torque. While these figures may not seem extraordinary on paper, the bike’s performance on the road tells a different story.
- Refined Power Delivery: The engine is tuned for strong low-end torque, making city rides smooth and overtaking effortless.
- 5-Speed Transmission: The slip-and-assist clutch ensures easy gear shifts, reducing rider fatigue in heavy traffic.
- Top Speed & Acceleration: The CB 350 can accelerate from 0 to 60 km/h in just 5.9 seconds, with a top speed of 130 km/h.
One of the biggest advantages of the CB 350 is its engine refinement. Unlike some competitors that experience vibrations at higher speeds, this bike remains smooth, ensuring a comfortable ride.
Honda CB 350: Fuel Efficiency and Mileage
The Honda CB 350 strikes a fine balance between performance and fuel efficiency. Here’s what you can expect:
- City Mileage: Around 45.8 kmpl
- Highway Mileage: Approximately 42.17 kmpl
This makes the CB 350 a cost-effective option for daily commutes and long rides, ensuring you spend less on fuel while enjoying a powerful ride.
Honda CB 350: Handling and Ride Comfort
The CB 350’s chassis and suspension are designed to provide a comfortable and stable riding experience:
- Suspension: The bike features telescopic front forks and twin shock absorbers at the rear, absorbing road bumps efficiently.
- Braking System: Equipped with disc brakes on both wheels and dual-channel ABS, ensuring safer stops even on slippery roads.
- Ride Stability: The 19-inch front and 18-inch rear wheels enhance stability and grip, making high-speed rides more confident.
The CB 350 offers a comfortable riding posture, ensuring that long rides are less fatiguing. The well-padded seat and spacious design make it ideal for both city rides and highway cruising.
Honda CB 350: Features and Technology
Honda has equipped the CB 350 with premium features that set it apart from competitors:
- Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC): Traction control system that enhances grip on slippery roads.
- Full-LED Lighting: Modern LED headlamps, taillights, and turn indicators improve visibility and aesthetics.
- Semi-Digital Instrument Cluster: Displays essential information, including gear position, fuel level, and trip meter.
- Bluetooth Connectivity (Higher Variants): Allows smartphone integration for turn-by-turn navigation and call alerts.
- Voice-Controlled Features: Available in premium variants, letting riders control functions via voice commands.
These features ensure that the CB 350 is not just a powerful machine but also a technologically advanced motorcycle that caters to modern riders.
Honda CB 350: Competitors and Market Impact
The CB 350 competes with some of the most popular bikes in the Indian market, including:
- Royal Enfield Classic 350
- Jawa 350
- Benelli Imperiale 400
Despite being a relatively new entrant, the CB 350 has gained significant traction, selling over 50,000 units in India. More than half of the customers have opted for variants with additional features, indicating the growing preference for tech-loaded motorcycles in this segment.
Honda CB 350: Price and Variants
The Honda CB 350 is available in multiple variants, catering to different preferences and budgets:
| Variant | Ex-Showroom Price (Delhi) |
|---|---|
| CB 350 DLX | ₹1,99,990 |
| CB 350 DLX Pro | ₹2,09,357 |
| CB 350 DLX Pro Chrome | ₹2,19,357 |
For the price, the CB 350 offers exceptional value, blending premium features with Honda’s legendary reliability.
Honda CB 350: Pros and Cons
Pros:
✔ Refined Engine: Smooth and vibration-free performance.
✔ Great Mileage: Impressive fuel efficiency for a 350cc bike.
✔ Comfortable Riding Experience: Good suspension and ergonomic design.
✔ Advanced Features: Bluetooth, LED lights, traction control, and more.
✔ Reliable Build Quality: Honda’s trusted durability and low maintenance.
Cons:
✘ Slightly Expensive: Higher price than some competitors.
✘ Limited Customization: Fewer aftermarket accessories compared to Royal Enfield.
✘ Availability Issues: Some buyers report waiting periods due to high demand.
Honda CB 350: Future Prospects
Honda is known for innovation and adapting to new trends. The CB 350 is already compliant with new emission norms, and there are speculations about a future hybrid or electric variant. This would solidify Honda’s commitment to sustainable mobility while maintaining the CB 350’s legendary performance.
Why Should You Buy the Honda CB 350?
- If you’re looking for a powerful, reliable, and stylish motorcycle for city commutes and highway rides, the CB 350 is an excellent choice.
- It offers cutting-edge technology, making it a future-proof bike.
- Honda’s widespread service network ensures easy maintenance and availability of spare parts.
FAQs About Honda CB 350
1. Is the Honda CB 350 good for beginners?
Yes, the CB 350’s smooth power delivery and comfortable ride make it suitable for beginners. However, new riders should practice before hitting high speeds.
2. What is the real-world mileage of the CB 350?
It delivers around 42-46 kmpl, depending on riding conditions and style.
3. Does the CB 350 have Bluetooth connectivity?
Yes, higher variants come with Bluetooth and smartphone integration.
4. How does the CB 350 compare with the Royal Enfield Classic 350?
The CB 350 has a smoother engine, better technology, and higher refinement, while the Classic 350 offers retro styling and strong brand value.
5. Is the CB 350 good for long rides?
Absolutely! Its comfortable seating, smooth engine, and stable ride make it perfect for long-distance touring.
Conclusion: Is the Honda CB 350 Worth It?
The Honda CB 350 is a well-rounded motorcycle that offers performance, features, and reliability in a single package. Whether you’re a commuter, weekend rider, or tourer, this bike ticks all the right boxes.
If you’re in the market for a 350cc bike with modern tech and Honda’s reliability, the CB 350 is an excellent investment. Don’t hesitate—take a test ride and experience the thrill yourself!