The Indian motorcycle market has seen a massive shift over the last few years, with retro-style motorcycles making a powerful comeback. Among these, the Honda Hness CB350 has carved a unique identity for itself. Introduced by Honda to rival the likes of the Royal Enfield Classic 350, the H’ness CB350 combines timeless retro design with modern features and reliable Japanese engineering.
we will explore every aspect of the Honda Hness CB350, including its design, engine performance, mileage, features, variants, price, and competition, while analyzing why it has become such a popular choice among Indian riders.
A Glimpse into Honda’s CB Heritage
Honda’s CB series has a legacy that dates back to the 1960s. The “CB” line has always been about reliable engines, refined performance, and motorcycles that appeal to a wide audience. The CB350 carries forward that same spirit while being tailored to Indian roads and rider preferences.
The H’ness (short for Highness) CB350 was launched in 2020, aimed squarely at dethroning the Royal Enfield Classic 350 from its dominant position. With its retro looks, thumping exhaust note, advanced electronics, and Honda’s trusted reliability, it quickly gained attention.
Design and Styling – Classic with Modern Touches
The Honda Hness CB350 is designed to turn heads with its retro-inspired styling that brings back the charm of old-school motorcycles.
- Round LED Headlamp: A vintage-style round headlamp but with modern LED illumination, ensuring both style and functionality.
- Chrome Elements: Liberal use of chrome on the exhaust, mirrors, and fenders gives it a premium retro appeal.
- Teardrop-Shaped Fuel Tank: A muscular tank with Honda branding, adding to the classic stance.
- Split Seat Setup: Comfortable and wide seating for both rider and pillion.
- Classic Instrument Cluster: Semi-digital console that blends analog retro dials with modern digital readouts.
- Spoke Wheels & Tyres: 19-inch front and 18-inch rear wheels add to its rugged, retro profile.
Overall, the Honda Hness CB350 manages to strike a perfect balance between retro charm and modern functionality, making it a versatile choice for both city commutes and weekend highway rides.
Engine and Performance
At the heart of the Honda Hness CB350 is a 348.36cc, single-cylinder, air-cooled, fuel-injected engine.
Key Specs:
- Engine Capacity: 348.36cc
- Max Power: 20.78 PS @ 5,500 rpm
- Max Torque: 30 Nm @ 3,000 rpm
- Transmission: 5-speed gearbox with assist & slipper clutch
- Cooling: Air-cooled
Real-World Performance:
The CB350 has been tuned for strong low-end and mid-range torque, perfect for city traffic and relaxed cruising. With 30 Nm of torque available at just 3,000 rpm, the bike delivers a smooth yet powerful ride experience.
- Top Speed: Around 115–120 km/h
- 0–60 km/h: Under 5 seconds
- Cruising Speed: Comfortable at 80–90 km/h
The engine produces a deep exhaust note, often compared to Royal Enfield’s thump, which enhances its retro character.
Mileage and Fuel Efficiency
The Honda Hness CB350 is not only stylish and powerful but also fuel-efficient.
- Mileage: 35–40 km/l (real-world conditions)
- Fuel Tank Capacity: 15 liters
- Range: 450–500 km on a full tank
This makes the Honda Hness CB350 an excellent choice for both daily commuting and long highway rides.
Advanced Features and Technology
One of the biggest advantages of the Honda Hness CB350 is the modern technology packed into its retro body.
Notable Features:
- All-LED Lighting (headlamp, indicators, tail lamp).
- Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC) – Honda’s version of traction control, a segment-first feature.
- Assist & Slipper Clutch for smooth gear shifts and reduced fatigue.
- Bluetooth-Enabled Instrument Console with turn-by-turn navigation, music control, and call alerts.
- Semi-Digital Instrument Cluster – analog speedometer with digital readouts for trip, gear position, fuel, and more.
- Hazard Light Switch for added safety.
These features make the Honda Hness CB350 stand out from rivals like the Classic 350, which focuses more on heritage than technology.
Ride and Handling
The Honda Hness CB350 has been engineered to provide a comfortable and confident ride experience.
- Chassis: Half-duplex cradle frame for stability.
- Suspension: Telescopic front forks & twin-hydraulic shock absorbers at the rear.
- Brakes: Disc brakes at both ends with dual-channel ABS.
- Wheels: 19-inch front and 18-inch rear wheels for better road presence.
The bike feels planted and stable at cruising speeds, while its lightweight nature compared to Royal Enfield makes it easier to maneuver in city traffic.
Safety Features
Honda has given special attention to safety in theHonda Hness CB350:
- Dual-channel ABS
- Traction control (HSTC)
- Assist & slipper clutch
- Hazard lamps
- Wide tyres for better grip
These features make the CB350 one of the safest retro cruisers in India
Variants and Colours
The Honda Hness CB350 is offered in multiple variants:
- DLX
- DLX Pro
- DLX Pro Chrome
Colour Options:
- Precious Red Metallic
- Pearl Night Star Black
- Matte Marshal Green Metallic
- Pearl Night Star Black with Spear Silver Metallic
- Athletic Blue Metallic
The Pro variants get additional features like dual-tone paint schemes and Bluetooth connectivity.
Price and Availability
The Honda Hness CB350 is competitively priced to attract retro bike lovers:
- Price Range: ₹2.10 – ₹2.20 lakh (ex-showroom, India)
- On-Road Price: Around ₹2.45 – ₹2.55 lakh (depending on city)
Honda sells the CB350 through its premium BigWing dealerships, which are expanding across India.
Rivals of Honda H’ness CB350
The CB350 sits in one of the most competitive motorcycle segments in India. Its main rivals include:
- Royal Enfield Classic 350
- Jawa 42
- Yezdi Roadster
- Benelli Imperiale 400
Among these, the Royal Enfield Classic 350 is its strongest competitor, but the Honda CB350 offers better refinement, reliability, and features.
Pros and Cons of Honda H’ness CB350
Pros:
Retro styling with premium finish
Refined and reliable Honda engine
Excellent exhaust note
Modern features (Bluetooth, traction control)
Comfortable for long rides
Cons:
Limited BigWing dealership network
Slightly expensive compared to rivals
Not as wide aftermarket customization options as RE
Who Should Buy the Honda H’ness CB350?
The CB350 is perfect for:
- Riders looking for a retro-styled motorcycle with modern features.
- Daily commuters who want refinement and mileage.
- Touring enthusiasts who want a comfortable and reliable long-distance bike.
- Riders who prefer Honda’s reliability over Royal Enfield’s heritage.
Conclusion
The Honda Hness CB350 is a motorcycle that combines classic styling, modern features, reliable performance, and premium appeal. It successfully blends old-school charm with new-age technology, making it one of the most compelling options in the retro motorcycle segment.
While Royal Enfield continues to dominate with its Classic 350, the Honda Hness CB350 provides an excellent alternative for riders who want refinement, advanced safety features, and Honda’s trusted reliability.
In short, if you’re in the market for a stylish, comfortable, and feature-packed retro motorcycle, the Honda Hness CB350 deserves to be on your shortlist.
