Honda Bikes

The new Honda H’ness CB 350 marks the company’s entry into the retro cruiser segment
Image – MRD Vlogs

Honda Motorcycle and Scooter India (HMSI) has launched the new H’Ness CB350 retro roadster motorcycle in India. It is a rival to Royal Enfield and Jawa. Bookings are now open at dealers, as well as online for Rs 5,000.
Honda H’ness CB 350 Prices
Honda will retail the new H’Ness CB350 via its Big Wing dealerships across India. In the first phase, only Big Wing dealers in Gurugram, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Kochi and Bhilai will sell the bike. By end of this fiscal, Honda aims to cover lot more cities across India. Price for base DLX variant is Rs 1.85 lakhs and for the top DLX PRO variant is Rs 1.9 lakhs. All prices are ex-sh.
New Design Language and Colour Options
Honda H’ness CB 350, which will be presented in two variants of Deluxe and Deluxe Pro.True to its roadster stance, it receives a rounded headlamp design, tall handlebars, a long saddle and tear drop shaped fuel tank with the Honda badging. Chrome accents are seen across the mirror surrounds, exhaust and crank case. The CB 350 also gets a raised tail section and LED tail lamps while it rides on alloy wheels. Colour options are in three monotones of Black, Red and Green and in dual tones of Black and Grey, Blue and White and Black and White.
First in Segment Features
Honda has given the H’Ness CB350 a single pod instrument panel with an analog speedometer and digital readout. The Deluxe Pro variant receives Bluetooth enabled turn by turn navigation, music and telephone controls. It also gets battery health indicator, side stand engine cut off system and Honda smartphone voice controls.
Honda CB 350 DLX Pro, Image – Sameer
Among its first in segment features are Selectable Torque Control to prevents rear wheel from moving out of line during acceleration, Honda Smartphone Voice Control System (HSVCS), Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC) and assist and slipper clutch.
Engine
Honda H’ness CB350 is powered by a 348.36cc single cylinder, air cooled engine. This engine will offer 20.8 hp power at 5,500 rpm and 30 Nm torque at 3,000 rpm. It will be mated to a 5 speed gearbox and receive assist and slipper clutch as standard. The cruiser will get 310mm front and 240mm rear disc brake respectively, with dual channel ABS. Suspension will be via telescopic fork at the front and twin shock absorbers at the rear.
Honda H’ness CB 350 Dimensions
The Honda roadster measures 2,163mm in length, 800mm in width and 1,107mm in height while wheelbase stands at 1,441mm. Ground clearance is at 166mm, fuel tank is of 15 liter capacity and kerb weight is at 181 kgs.
Management Speak
Mr. Yadvinder Singh Guleria, Director – Sales & Marketing, Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India Pvt. Ltd. said, “Truly bringing in the festivities, we are happy to announce the attractive starting price of H’ness-CB350. The excellent response since the global premiere of this model is very encouraging and customers can look forward to the ultimate fun of riding the “Made in India” CB legacy this festival. With a special introductory price of INR 1.85 lac (ex-showroom, Gurugram), we are confident that H’ness-CB350 will attract the mid-size motorcycle enthusiasts.” More

Honda currently retails the bigger Africa Twin 1100 in India at a starting price of Rs 15.35 lakh (ex-showroom)
Honda Two-Wheelers India has adopted an aggressive marketing approach this year post transition from BS4 to BS6 emission norms. Apart from launching two new bikes recently- Hornet 2.0 and H’Ness CB350, the Japanese brand is looking to expand its range of motorcycles further in the country.

As we all know, Honda retails its bikes through two dealership networks- one general and the other Honda Big Wing which conducts business in only the premium range of motorcycles. Honda Big Wing currently retails six models under its portfolio but as mentioned in our previous reports, the company has a serious intention of expanding its premium range in India.
The popularity of ADVs and quarter-litre bikes
As per some reports, Honda is planning to develop a scaled-down version of the Africa Twin with a smaller displacement of 250cc. Many Indian consumers, especially biking enthusiasts, have also found a liking to the recent crop of ADVs.
Honda CRF250L Rally
With quarter-litre segments making inroads into the Indian market, it makes sense to add a proper adventure tourer of similar capacity. The other motive for Honda to develop a quarter-litre ADV is to take on Suzuki V-Strom 250, BMW 310GS, or the upcoming KTM 250 / 390 ADV.
Reports suggest that this expected Africa Twin 250 is not going to be an all-new motorcycle but it will be based on the upgraded Honda CRF250L Rally. In other words, Honda might be working towards developing a new generation of CRF250L Rally. It might be more than just a rebadged CRF250L Rally since it is an out and out dirt bike. Therefore, giving it the moniker of Africa Twin might not just be a naming exercise but also a task to make it a reliable adventure and touring machine.
Expected Design
Since it is going to be part of the Africa Twin range of motorcycles, we can expect it to adopt a similar design philosophy. A rendering based on the updated CRF250L Rally showcases what the Africa Twin 250 could look like. However, it gets a bigger fuel tank and more fairing than the former. Although it will carry forward many similar elements from Africa Twin 1110 like its headlight, front cowl, etc. the rendering evidently suggests that it will be a lot lighter.
Powertrain
Also, the name Africa Twin has to be altered slightly since the engine utilised by CRF250L Rally is a 249cc single-cylinder liquid-cooled unit which generates an output of 25 bhp. As of now, details are very little and mostly speculative. However, if it indeed goes into production, there are high chances of it coming to India. Apart from this, Honda is also developing an 850cc bike for the same range which is almost confirmed for production.
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New Honda CB350 is a challenger to the Royal Enfield Classic 350, as well as the Benelli Imperiale 400
With plans to challenge the supremacy of Royal Enfield, Honda India has launched the CB350 roadster motorcycle, also known as the H’ness. Honda CB350 will also take on other rivals such as Jawa and Benelli Imperiale 400.

Talking about the latter, the bike was launched in 2019 and initial response was quite good. BS6 variant of Benelli Imperiale 400 was launched earlier this year in July. To understand how they matchup, here’s a quick comparison between Honda CB350 vs Benelli Imperiale 400.
Design and styling
Both CB350 and Imperiale 400 have retro styling, as is evident in the round headlamp, teardrop-shaped indicators, broad fenders and chrome bits. However, if we talk about overall design, it’s apparent that Imperiale 400 is a lot more expressive as compared to the relatively sober-looking CB350. Both bikes are available in attractive colour options.
Benelli Imperiale 400
Engine
While Honda CB350 is equipped with a 348cc engine, Imperiale utilizes a 374 cc motor. Even though CB350 has a lower capacity engine, its max power output of 21 bhp is the same as that of Imperiale. Talking about torque, it is actually higher in case of CB350, although marginally. While CB350 generates 30 Nm of max torque at 3,000 rpm, Imperiale churns out 29 Nm at 3,500 rpm. Both engines come mated to a 5-speed gearbox.
Honda CB350 vs Benelli Imperiale 400
Coming to the structural aspects, CB350 utilizes a half-duplex cradle whereas Imperiale 400 rides on a double cradle frame. While both motorcycles have telescopic suspension at the front, the rear units are twin hydraulic for CB350 and pre load adjustable system for Imperiale. Braking system of CB350 comprises 310 mm disc at the front and 240 mm disc at the rear. Imperiale has the same setup with the exception of front disc that is 300 mm. Both motorcycles offer dual-channel ABS as standard.
One key difference between CB350 and Imperiale is that the former utilizes alloy wheels whereas the latter has spoke wheels. While spoke wheels enhance the retro look, alloy wheels are more practical, as they can be shod with tubeless tyres. Talking about the rubber, both motorcycles have 100/90 – R19 front tyres. At the rear, CB350 has 130/70 – R18 tyres whereas Imperiale is equipped with 130/80 – R18 tyres.
In dimensional aspects, both motorcycles are largely the same. There’s only marginal difference in length, width, height, wheelbase, seat height and ground clearance. The only significant difference is in kerb weight, with CB350 being 24 kg lighter than Imperiale that weighs 205 kg.
Features
Honda CB350 vs Benelli Imperiale 400
Honda CB350 is definitely ahead of Imperiale 400 in terms of features. That’s because CB350 packs in a range of first-in-segment features such as LED headlamp, Bluetooth connectivity, assist and slipper clutch, selectable torque control, turn-by-turn navigation, engine start/stop switch, and side stand indicator with engine cut-off. Warranty for CB350 is 3 years standard + 3 years extended whereas Imperiale 400 offers 3 years unlimited km warranty.
In terms of pricing, CB350 is slightly more affordable. It is expected to be offered at a starting price of Rs 1.90 lakh. In comparison, Imperiale 400 BS6 is priced at Rs 1.99 lakh. All prices are ex-sh. More

Believe it or not, one of the biggest reason behind Royal Enfield’s success, is its thump – in addition to its looks / design
One of the features that have made Royal Enfield motorcycles such as Classic 350 popular is the thumping exhaust note. On the streets, it highlights your presence and indicates what you are riding. For many users, Royal Enfield’s thumping exhaust note is an essential component of their overall ride experience. As of now, it’s almost impossible to imagine RE motorcycles without their signature exhaust note.

The latest entrant to challenge the supremacy of Royal Enfield appears to be well aware about the importance of having a powerful aural experience. This is why Honda Highness CB350 has been launched with its own distinctive throaty exhaust note.
In fact, at the launch event of HNESS CB350, Honda had given the most focus to the exhaust note of CB350. Of all the features, maximum time spent during the launch, was about the THUMP of CB350. They even had a Thump Show, during the launch, where famous percussionist Sivamani played. This shows how important Thump of a motorcycle is, when you are planning to eat into market share of Royal Enfield. Below is a video posted by YouTube channel MRD Vlogs, which compares the exhaust note of Royal Enfield Classic 350 Thump vs Honda CB350 Exhaust Note.
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Die-hard Royal Enfield fans are unlikely to vote for CB350’s exhaust note. But, we are sure there are many folks out there with an open mind who would appreciate Honda’s efforts in this department.
Which has a bigger THUMP?
While the aural experience of both motorcycles is comparable, it does appear that Classic 350’s exhaust note has a lot more raw power. The sound also appears to vary drastically when the bike is revved up. In comparison, CB350’s exhaust note comes across as more refined. Variations in exhaust note is relatively less when the throttle is increased. If we consider a noisy street with heavy traffic, Classic 350 would obviously be more noticeable with its exhaust note.
However, aural experience is a matter of personal tastes and preferences. So, it’s difficult to say which motorcycle has the best exhaust note. Honda has done a commendable job, but Royal Enfield will continue to be preferred by folks who want their rides to be extra loud.
CB350 vs. Classic 350 – engine & specs
Talking about the engines, CB350 is equipped with a 348 cc motor that generates 21 bhp of max power at 5500 rpm and 30 Nm of max torque at 3000 rpm. In comparison, RE Classic 350 is powered by a 346 cc engine, generating 19.1 bhp / 28 Nm. Both engines are coupled with 5-speed gearbox.
Royal Enfield Classic 350 vs Honda CB350 Specs
With more power and torque and being 14 kg lighter than Classic 350 (195 kg), Honda CB350 will have a higher power to weight ratio. It is likely to make the motorcycle more agile, which would be useful in city conditions.
To make the decision easier for customers, Honda has also equipped CB350 with a range of first-in-segment features. Some of these include LED headlight and LED tail lamp with ring type winkers, assist and slipper clutch, selectable torque control, Bluetooth connectivity suite, hazard switch, engine start/stop switch, and side stand indicator with engine cut-off. More

The last time Honda Two Wheelers sales had crossed 5 lakh mark in domestic market, it was Sep 2018
Honda two wheelers has pulled up its socks and gotten on with doing what it does best – Posting formidable sales. September 2020 saw the manufacturer report sales at 5 lakh units. Sales grew 9.87 percent, up at 5,00,887 units from 4,55,896 units in Sep 2019 having gained 44,991 units in volume.

Exports fell by 12.73 percent down at 25,978 units from 29,767 units at volume loss of 3,7989 units. Total sales is reported at 5,26,865 units ay 8.48 percent sales growth from 4,85,663 units at 41,202 units volume gain.
Covid-19 pandemic related slowdown has caused disruptions industrywide. This is the first time since Sep 2018 that HMSI has breached the 5 lakh sales mark, a figure the brand is comfortable with. Below is the detailed sales table.
Honda Two Wheelers Sales Sep 2020
The ongoing festive season brings with it great potential and has seen both top players, Honda two wheelers and Hero Motocorp report stupendous single day and monthly sales during the traditionally high period of sales. This year looks no different.
New Launches
In the last 5 weeks, Honda has announced two new product launches, the 184.4cc Honda Hornet 2.0 and CB350. These new measures put Honda in territory with an introduction in new segments.
Honda H’NESS CB350 is built on 90 percent localisation to ensure it’s a cost efficient offering, and the company as pointed to price of around Rs 1.9 lakhs. A final retail price will soon be announced but it’s clear that the new mid-sized bike is designed to be a sub 2 lakh offering to ensure it’s s strong and competitive proposition.
While the bike will first be sold in India, export considerations will be reviewed at a later date. India proves to be a great hub to manufacture above 300cc bikes that are exported from here by a growing number of manufacturers. Honda Hornet, which was previously a 160cc offering in its new avatar sits in the 180 – 200 cc segment. The move allows Honda to finally consider mid segment bike sales in India.
The bane of Honda’s business in India remains its multi generational and evergreen Honda Activa scooter. CB shine 125 is its most popular mass market motorcycle, and HMSI could very well find more takers in a 100 – 110 cc mass market motorcycle. The current 180 to 350 cc market that Honda has ventured onto, is a smaller ticket potential that’ll allow Honda to have a wider product range, and pull in numbers. More

Honda 2Wheelers India states that the new H’Ness CB350 is specially developed for buyers in India
Honda Motorcycle and Scooter India (HMSI) have shown off the new HNESS CB350 neo retro roadster bike in India. It comes in at a starting price of Rs.1.91 lakhs and marks the entry of Honda into the 300-350cc modern classic segment.
Honda H’Ness CB350 neo-retro roadster

The new Honda H’ness CB350 (pronounced Highness) will be retailed via the company’s Big Wing outlets in India. It is now on display at the Big Wing dealerships in Gurugram, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Kochi and Bhilai while bookings have already commenced at a down payment of Rs.5,000. Customers can book this bike via the Honda official website or at the brand’s Big Wing dealerships.
Honda H’ness CB350 is presented in two variants of DLX and DLX Pro. It receives vintage styling inspired by the Honda CB range with rounded LED headlamp, a sleek fuel tank with the ‘Honda’ badge, chrome finished exhaust and a digi-analogue speedometer. Below is a detailed walkaround video of Honda CB350, credit to Power On Wheel.
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Speaking about variants, DLX Pro gets Bluetooth enabled turn by turn navigation, music and telephone controls while it also sports battery health indicator, side stand engine cut off system and Honda smartphone voice control system. The bike also receives Selectable Torque Control which prevents the rear wheel from moving out of line during acceleration.
Features
Honda confirms several segment first features on the CB350. These include Honda Smartphone Voice Control System (HSVCS), Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC) and an assist and slipper clutch. HSVCS allows for the rider to connect to smartphone and access features such as navigation, music, phone calls and incoming messages.
The display offers details on mileage, battery, gear and distance to empty. Where mileage is concerned, the display shows off average mileage based on history of rider’s pattern and conditions. The mileage displayed is in real time while the rider does not need to worry about battery being discharged as the meter gives information on battery voltage and the distance to empty is also shown off on the display.
The Honda H’ness CB350 DLX variant is presented in mono tones of Black, Green and Red while the DLX Pro gets dual tone color schemes with a contrasting brown saddle. Dual Tone options include Black and Grey, Blue and White and Black and White. The retro styled roadster sits on alloy wheels fitted with 100/90-19 front and 130/70-18 rear tyres.
Rivals
Honda HNess CB350 vs Rivals
In terms of dimensions, the Honda H’ness CB350 measures 2,163mm in length, 800mm in width and 1,107mm in height. Its wheelbase measures 1,441mm and ground clearance stands at 166mm. Fuel tank is of 15 liter capacity while kerb weight is at 181 kgs.
Honda Hness CB350 is powered by a 348.36cc, single cylinder, air cooled engine offering 20.8 hp power at 5,500 rpm and 30 Nm torque at 3,000 rpm mated to a 5 speed gearbox with assist and slipper clutch. Peak torque is produced from low in rev range allowing for better performance. The new CB350 which sits on a new double cradle frame gets its suspension and braking via telescopic fork in the front and twin shock absorbers at the rear and 310mm disc brakes in the front and 240mm disc at the rear. It gets Dual Channel ABS.
Once launched in October, the Honda H’ness CB350 will compete with the Jawa Classic, Jawa Forty Two, Royal Enfield Classic 350, Royal Enfield Meteor and Benelli Imperiale 400. More