The Honda CB350 has carved a distinctive niche in the mid-capacity motorcycle segment in India. With its classic styling, modern features, and the Honda badge of reliability, this motorcycle appeals to both young urban riders and seasoned motorcyclists who appreciate old-school charm combined with new-age engineering. In this comprehensive blog post, we’ll explore the Honda CB350 in depth—covering design, performance, features, safety, pricing, competitors, and more. By the end, you’ll know whether the Honda CB350 is the right bike for your garage in 2025.
Table of Contents
1. Introduction: What is the Honda CB350?
The Honda CB350 was launched in India as a response to the surging demand for retro-themed motorcycles in the 300-500cc range. It competes directly with the likes of Royal Enfield Classic 350, Jawa 42, and Yezdi Roadster. Honda has brought this motorcycle under its premium “BigWing” dealership network, emphasizing its upmarket image and premium ownership experience.
Positioned as a retro-modern motorcycle, the CB350 revives Honda’s legendary CB lineup that made waves in the global motorcycling scene in the 1970s. It’s a bike that brings heritage and technology together, in a package tailored for Indian roads.
2. Design and Styling: Retro Meets Modern
The Honda CB350 pays homage to classic motorcycles with its teardrop fuel tank, round LED headlamp, chrome fenders, and vintage-inspired paint schemes. Yet, it doesn’t feel outdated. The use of modern lighting elements, crisp detailing, and a well-proportioned body gives it a timeless appeal.
Key Styling Elements:
- Round all-LED headlight with ring-type DRL
- Chrome-finished exhaust and mirrors
- Teardrop-shaped 15-liter fuel tank
- Minimal bodywork and exposed frame
- Chunky front forks and alloy wheels (in RS trim)
- Twin rear shock absorbers
The CB350 is available in multiple color options like Matte Marshal Green, Pearl Nightstar Black, and Athletic Blue Metallic, adding to its visual variety.
In 2025, Honda also introduced new dual-tone color schemes and minor cosmetic tweaks, keeping the design fresh for the competition.
3. Engine and Performance
At the heart of the CB350 lies a 348.36cc, air-cooled, single-cylinder engine. It is tuned for a strong mid-range and a relaxed riding experience, ideal for both city commuting and highway cruising.
Engine Specifications:
- Displacement: 348.36cc
- Power: 21.07 PS @ 5500 rpm
- Torque: 30 Nm @ 3000 rpm
- Gearbox: 5-speed manual with slipper clutch
- Fuel System: PGM-FI (Programmed Fuel Injection)
The engine offers a throaty exhaust note, tuned specifically to mimic classic British bikes. The gear shifts are smooth and clutch action is light, making it beginner-friendly.
The strong torque curve and smooth throttle response ensure the CB350 is comfortable cruising at 80–90 km/h with minimal vibrations.
4. Ride Quality and Handling
The Honda CB350 strikes a balance between comfort and stability. Its upright riding posture, wide handlebar, and well-cushioned seat make it ideal for long-distance touring.
Chassis & Suspension:
- Double-cradle steel frame
- Telescopic front forks and twin hydraulic rear shock absorbers
- Ground clearance: 166 mm
- Kerb weight: ~181 kg
- Seat height: 800 mm
The bike handles potholes, uneven roads, and mild off-road trails with ease. Though not a performance bike, it offers predictable handling and excellent stability even at triple-digit speeds.
5. Features and Technology
Despite its retro styling, the CB350 is packed with modern features.
Notable Features:
- Full LED lighting (headlight, taillight, indicators)
- Semi-digital instrument cluster with LCD screen
- Bluetooth connectivity with navigation (DLX Pro variant)
- Honda Smartphone Voice Control System (HSVCS)
- Assist and slipper clutch
- Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC)
- Engine start/stop switch
These features elevate the CB350 from just a nostalgic ride to a practical daily-use bike in 2025. Riders who want both style and substance will appreciate the tech package.
6. Braking and Safety
Honda has ensured that the CB350 is not only stylish and comfortable but also safe.
Safety and Braking Equipment:
- Dual-channel ABS (standard across all variants)
- 310 mm front disc and 240 mm rear disc
- Tubeless tires for enhanced safety and puncture resistance
- Engine kill switch
The braking setup is confidence-inspiring, with strong bite and feedback, especially during emergency stops. The HSTC (torque control) helps prevent wheel spin, especially on slippery roads.
7. Variants and Pricing
Honda offers the CB350 in multiple variants to cater to different rider preferences:
Available Variants:
- CB350 DLX
- CB350 DLX Pro
- CB350 DLX Pro Chrome
Price Range (Ex-showroom):
- Starts at approx. ₹1.99 lakh and goes up to ₹2.19 lakh (subject to state-wise taxation)
Each variant differs in terms of features, with the top-end Pro Chrome offering additional chrome elements, dual-tone paint, and connected tech.
8. Mileage and Real-World Efficiency
Honda has managed to extract decent mileage from the CB350 despite its torquey engine.
Claimed Mileage:
- ARAI-certified: 35–40 km/l
Real-World Mileage:
- City riding: 30–32 km/l
- Highway cruising: 36–38 km/l
The 15-liter tank ensures a range of over 400 km, making it a suitable machine for touring as well.
9. Service and Maintenance
Honda’s BigWing network is steadily expanding across India, and with it, service support for premium motorcycles like the CB350 is improving.
Ownership Highlights:
- 3-year standard warranty (extendable up to 7 years)
- Service interval: Every 6,000 km or 6 months
- Spare parts are relatively affordable
- Honda’s reliability reduces long-term costs
Annual maintenance cost is reasonable for a premium bike, with average service bills around ₹1,500–2,000 depending on the work involved.
10. Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Retro styling with premium fit and finish
- Strong mid-range torque
- Smooth gearbox and comfortable ergonomics
- Modern tech like Bluetooth, HSVCS, and HSTC
- Reliable Honda after-sales support
Cons:
- No 6th gear for highway cruising
- Slightly heavier than competitors
- Limited service network in rural areas (improving)
11. Competitors: What Does It Go Up Against?
The CB350 faces stiff competition from both established and new players in the segment:
| Bike Model | Engine | Power | Price (Ex-showroom) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Royal Enfield Classic 350 | 349cc | 20.2 bhp | ₹1.93 – 2.25 L |
| Honda CB350 | 348.36cc | 21 bhp | ₹1.99 – 2.19 L |
| Jawa 42 | 294cc | 27 bhp | ₹1.98 – 2.10 L |
| Yezdi Roadster | 334cc | 29 bhp | ₹2.09 – 2.13 L |
| Benelli Imperiale 400 | 374cc | 21 bhp | ₹2.35 L |
Each bike brings its own strengths, but the CB350 wins with its balance of style, features, and refinement.
12. Who Should Buy the Honda CB350?
The Honda CB350 is perfect for:
- Riders transitioning from 125cc or 150cc bikes
- Daily commuters who want a premium feel
- Tourers looking for comfort and reliability
- Retro motorcycle lovers
- Buyers seeking low-maintenance ownership
Final Verdict: Is the Honda CB350 Worth It in 2025?
Absolutely. The Honda CB350 is a strong contender in the classic-modern motorcycle segment. It brings Honda’s world-class engineering and blends it with a retro design language that appeals to a wide range of riders. Whether you’re buying your first premium motorcycle or upgrading from a smaller commuter, the CB350 delivers value, reliability, and charisma.
If you’re looking for a bike that looks good, performs well, and lasts long, the Honda CB350 is one of the most sensible choices in the Indian market today.