Honda Bikes

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

Royal Enfield has a market share of over 75% in in the 200cc to 500cc motorcycle segment in India
Aiming to challenge the supremacy of Royal Enfield in middle-weight bike segment, Honda Motorcycles and Scooter India (HMSI) will be launching its first cruiser in the Indian market tomorrow, 30th Sep 2020. While nothing is 100% sure as of now, it is expected that Honda’s new motorcycle will be based on Rebel 300.

As may be recalled, Honda Rebel 300 was patented in India in 2017. Rebel 300 and its 500 cc sibling have been on sale in international markets since 2017. The 2020 Honda Rebel 300 and 500 models were unveiled at 2019 EICMA in Milan.
For the Indian market, Honda is expected to name the cruiser motorcycle as ‘H’NESS’. This will be pronounced as Highness. Honda had applied for trademark application of Highness first, but that was objected. And thus they decided to patent the name H’NESS instead.
Honew H’NESS Cruiser Motorcycle Name Registered. Highness name gets objected.
Earlier Honda had released a preview of the motorcycle’s exhaust note, which had a thumping sound, quite similar to that of Royal Enfield motorcycles. This is a strong clue about the specific customer base that Honda’s new cruiser will be targeting in the country.
Design
The motorcycle is expected to have a retro look and feel, even though it will be loaded with a range of modern equipment such as all-LED lights and digital instrument cluster. Some features come across as quite radical, for example, the elevated water-drop shaped fuel tank. Overall, the cruiser has a lean mass and is expected to work well for both city rides as well as long distance touring.
If it is the Rebel 300 which is coming to India, than powering the cruiser will be a 286 cc, DOHC, liquid cooled, single cylinder engine that delivers max power of 30.4 ps at 8000 rpm and max torque of 27.4 Nm at 6500 rpm. This is mated to a 6-speed gearbox. It is expected that slipper clutch will be offered with Highness, as is available with other Honda motorcycles.
Rivals
Primary rival of Honda HNESS will be the upcoming Royal Enfield Meteor 350. Highness will also compete with Jawa 300 cc motorcycles. While Jawa may have faltered on deliveries, problems like these are unlikely to happen with Honda. The Japanese automaker has the technology, experience and a wide countrywide network to back its new cruiser motorcycle.
Of 60,809 motorcycles sold in the segment, 46,707 were of Royal Enfield – with a 76.7% market share in Aug 2020
One of Royal Enfield’s USPs is that its motorcycles are quite affordable. To compete effectively, Honda will have to reduce the price gap between Highness and its rivals. While Royal Enfield Meteor 350 is expected to be launched at a starting price of Rs 1.68 lakh, Jawa BS6 currently retails in the range of Rs 1.73 lakh to Rs 1.82 lakh. Honda Highness could be launched in the price range of Rs 2.5-3 lakh. Honda is expected to increase localization in order to launch Highness at a competitive price point.
Honda H’NESS will most likely be sold via the premium ‘Honda Big Wing’ dealerships. Launched in 2019, Honda Big Wing dealerships currently sell big bikes such as CBR650R, CB1000R, CBR Fireblade, Africa Twin and Gold Wing. After Highness 300, Honda could also launch the corresponding derivative of Rebel 500 in the Indian market. More

While Activa continues to hold a strong position, the recently updated XBlade put up a surprisingly strong performance in domestic as well as overseas markets
The automotive industry has been reeling under the effects of an economic meltdown when the Covid-19 pandemic hit us and the situation worsened thereafter. Finally, after a long period, we can say that the industry is on a path to recovery seeing the current numbers which are coming our way.

Honda two-wheelers have put up a decent performance in the domestic market during the last month. When compared to August 2019, the YoY sales in August 2020 has risen by 0.62 percent in the domestic market. However, exports continued to witness a downfall as it recorded a decline of over 41 percent on YoY figures.
Domestic Market
The Activa continued to be the most sold two-wheeler in India. It was also the most sold scooter in India during the same period and that too by some margin. Although it witnessed a slide of 17.36 percent compared to August last year, it still managed to retail a handsome 1,93,607 units last month. The CB Shine followed next with 1,06,133 units sold in August 2020. It is also the most popular bike in the 125cc category as of now. It managed growth of 21.39 percent when compared to August 2019.
Honda Two Wheeler Domestic Sales Aug 2020
Dio (42,957), Unicorn (29,441), Livo (18,980), Dream (18,559), Grazia (12,588) have also put up decent performance as all registered positive YoY growth. The Livo especially registered a growth of over 90 percent in comparison to last year during the same period. For reference, in the BS6 era Unicorn was upgraded to a 160cc motor from the 150cc unit.
However, the biggest surprise was the recently updated XBlade which sold 5,557 units last month as compared to 2,500 August last year, thus registering a growth of 117 percent. The Hornet 2.0 was launched at the end of last month hence recorded only 400 units sold. Other products such as Aviator, Cliq, Unicorn 150, Hornet 160R and CBR 250R have been discontinued from Honda’s lineup altogether.
Exports
Honda Two Wheeler Exports Aug 2020
As mentioned before, the export numbers were not too encouraging. However, CB Twister continued to sell in off-shore markets with 4,810 units exported last month as compared to 1,040 units sold in August 2019. Navi (2,286), CB Shine (2,086) and Dio (1,786) were the next to follow but witnessed a degrowth of over 17 percent, 32 percent and 84 percent on YoY figures.
However, it seems the XBlade has found a liking for overseas consumers as well as it managed to export 16,68 units last month as compared to a meager 48 units sold overseas in August 2019. Other than Dream (1,109), all the rest witnessed a huge drop in sales figures. Interesting thing to note is that CBR250R is still being manufactured in India, but only for exports. 30 units were exported last month.
Also READ:
Two-wheeler sales August 2020Top-10 Motorcycles: August 2020 More

The Rebel 300 derivative will be launched on the follow-up to the recently launched Hornet 2.0 by Honda
We all know by now that Honda Motorcycles and Scooter India (HMSI) will be launching an all new cruiser motorcycle in India on 30th Sep. While Honda is still very tight-lipped about the exact configuration of the bike, they have now revealed the first official tease video, which hints at the name of the new motorcycle.

This new Honda cruiser motorcycle for India is expected to be christened as Highness. As we have already mentioned in our previous report that in all probability the Honda Highness could be a direct rival the upcoming Royal Enfield Meteor 350.
Honda has patented the Rebel design in India back in 2017. However, whether the new Honda Highness cruiser motorcycle will be based on the existing Rebel 300 architecture or a completely new platform is yet to be known. Although one thing is for sure that it will be designed keeping in mind the Indian consumers. Below is the latest teaser of Honda Highness.
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Design & Features
If we were to guess that Highness will draw its inspiration primarily from Rebel 300, then it is expected to carry forward the same retro-style design. It is expected to carry minimalistic bodywork with a low slung body and sport usual round headlamps. The retro classic look will be accentuated by the round LED turn indicators and rectangular LED taillight and short front and rear bobbed fenders. However, the most noticeable highlight is the water-drop shaped fuel tank.
In terms of features, it is expected to get an all-LED lighting setup and a fully-digital instrument cluster which will display crucial information like gear change indication and fuel-consumption. The cruiser employs a 41mm telescopic fork at front and twin shock absorber at rear. It is expected to be equipped with disc brakes on both ends and will also provide ABS with a single-channel variant as well as a dual-channel variant.
Powertrain Details
Coming to its mechanicals, the Rebel 300 is powered by a 286cc single-cylinder, liquid-cooled DOHC engine that can generate up to 30.4 PS of power at 8000 rpm and 27.4 Nm of peak torque at 6500 rpm. This unit is expected to be linked to a six-speed gearbox. There shall also be a slipper clutch to assist the transmission. It is expected to come with small 16-inch tyres which will be wrapped around by 130-section tyres.
Estimated Price
Honda is planning to retail the upcoming Highness through its premium dealership wing- Honda Big Wing. The brand has in the past announced its plan to expand the premium dealership network to 75 cities across the country. The Rebel is likely to be priced around Rs 2.5 – 3 lakh (ex-showroom), which is a premium of about Rs 1 lakh over Royal Enfield rival motorcycle. The makers might also launch the Rebel 500 based cruiser bike in India at a later stage. More