Honda CB350

Honda CB350 is the brand’s bold entry into the mid-size retro motorcycle segment. This classic bike is built under Honda’s premium BigWing subsidiary. Moreover, the CB350 promises old-school charm backed by Honda’s signature refinement, features, and reliability. This bike is a direct competitor of Royal Enfield’s top-selling bike, Classic 350. But does it really deliver on all fronts? Here’s our take on it.

During our test ride, a glance at the CB350 was all it took to see that Honda had blended retro aesthetics with modern detailing. You get a round LED headlamp, chrome-finished mirrors, a teardrop fuel tank, and generous splashes of chrome on the exhaust and engine covers. That retro Honda badge on the tank is a lovely touch. It evokes nostalgia with every glance.

The design clearly draws inspiration from the Royal Enfield Classic series, but the CB350 still manages to stand out with its cleaner lines and superior fit and finish. Everything feels well put together, from the switchgear to the tank’s paint job.

We tested the bike in Pearl Igneous Black colour, and trust us, the shining black colour with chrome accents looked fabulous. Overall, the fit and finish of the bike is top-notch, with no complaints. 

This cruiser bike has a 348.36cc, air-cooled, single-cylinder engine that produces 15.5 kW and 30 Nm of torque. It’s mated to a 5-speed gearbox and is tuned for smooth cruising. Moreover, the exhaust note is on point and grabs attention wherever it goes. It’s noticeably louder and sportier than many of its rivals, including the Royal Enfield Meteor.

The engine performs outstandingly while cruising between 80 and 100 kmph. It pulls quickly off the line, with 0-60 kmph coming in under 5 seconds. However, in city traffic, you’ll need to ride the bike at lower gears. The bike struggles in higher gears at low speeds, which can be annoying in stop-and-go traffic. But out on the highway, it’s smooth, stable, and surprisingly spirited.

Now, during the test rides, the CB350 returns an impressive fuel economy figure. In our mixed city and highway test, we managed around 36 kmpl. So, you can ride the bike for over 530 km.
This bike lets you tour and commute without constantly worrying about fuel stops. So, when it comes to performance and fuel economy, the CB350 outperforms many of its rivals. 
 

Today, everyone wants their bike to contain all the modern features. Moreover, Honda isn’t behind when it comes to offering all basic features in this retro-styled bike. Even the base DLX variant gets full LED lighting and dual-channel ABS. Additionally, the DLX Pro and Pro Chrome variants introduce segment-first features, including Bluetooth connectivity, turn-by-turn navigation, voice control through the Honda Smartphone Voice Control System (HSVCS), and even dual horns.

There’s also a USB Type-C charger for your gadgets, tucked under the console. It’s practical, though you’ll need your own cable or adapter. Furthermore, the voice assist feature is innovative, but it requires a compatible Bluetooth helmet headset. Still, as a whole, the CB350 is loaded with modern-day essentials that many in this segment miss out on.

Honda has struck a fine balance with the CB350’s suspension setup. The telescopic forks up front and twin shock absorbers at the rear offer a comfortable ride without feeling floaty. It soaks up bumps, potholes, and rough patches without drama.

At higher speeds, the bike feels planted and predictable. In corners, it handles cleanly, though the front end lacks a bit of feedback. It’s not built to carve twisties, but it holds its line well for a cruiser.

Apart from this, it has a 310 mm front disc and a 240 mm rear disc, backed by dual-channel ABS. The overall braking performance is solid, progressive, and reassuring. You also get standard traction control, an impressive addition at this price point.

The CB350’s ergonomics are one of its strongest points. The handlebar sits upright and wide, the footpegs are slightly forward-set, and the seat is broad enough for most riders. You sit “in” the bike rather than on top of it, which gives a grounded and confident feel, especially during long rides.

The seat itself is well-cushioned for city commutes and short tours. However, we’d recommend adding a cushion or breaks for rides exceeding 100-150 km. Apart from this, the overall comfort is really impressive. 

The Honda CB350 is more than just a response to the Royal Enfield wave. It’s a well-rounded motorcycle that combines vintage styling with everyday usability and modern tech. It’s smoother, more refined, and easier to maintain than most of its rivals.

So, if you want a bike that looks good, rides better, and offers peace of mind with Honda’s reliability, the CB350 is a top choice.