Honda CB 350 : Old-world charm with new-age modern soul The Honda H’ness CB350 is Honda’s aggressive offering in the modern classic motorcycle space, competing with the likes of the Royal Enfield Classic 350 and the Jawa.
The H’ness, short for Highness, is royal and is really up there in terms of looks and performance! Designed to be a running buddy for real, the motorcycle reimagines a heritage style with Honda’s decades of engineering experience.
On a good day, riding the CB350 through city confines or even long highway cruises could be relaxing and fun for seasoned riders, and mature (as far as engines go).
Timeless Design Aesthetic for a Look that Demands Attention
The Honda CB350’s enduring style is a key draw, it calls to mind legacy motorcycles by Honda.
Its retro look is accentuated by the round shaped LED headlamp, the chrome plated fenders, the teardrop-shaped fuel tank, dual-tone paint themes and the metal side panels.
Wide handlebars, big seat and the simple lines makes it handsomely vintage, while things like alloy wheels and digital instrumentation give it the contemporary flourish.
Attention to detail is excellent, from the quality of the paint finish to the tactile feel of the switches and levers.
This is not just a good-looking bike in pictures, it has a presence and elegance on the road.
Nice and Also Functional Whichever the way you look at the K340, it is very comfortable in the hand.
The CB350 provides a nice relaxed riding position with a slight upright seating, placed forward footpegs and flat and wide cushioned seat designed for long rides.
Its 800 mm seat height should be comfortable for a wide range of riders and, for a motorcycle in this segment, the kerb weight of 181 kg is very much on the ‘light’ side.
It is a motorcycle for careful, everyday riding, but one also capable of the occasional highway tour.
Honda has also focused on fit and finish, and make the CB350 an agreeable motorcycle to use every day, whether you’re new to two wheels or more experienced.
Smooth And Sophisticated Power Delivery
Honda CB 350: Powering the motorcycle is a 348.36cc, single-cylinder, air-cooled engine which churns out 21.07 PS of power 30 Nm of torque, mated to a 5-speed gearbox with a slipper clutch.
Gearing is set for smooth, torque-heavy delivery, and the characteristic thump blends nostalgia with the reality that,
the T100’s been massaged by Tom Houseworth and the Factory Customs team at Bonneville Speedway.
And that lumpy torque makes its way through the torque curve in a linear manner which is matched to the predictable throttle input,
which means there’s a decent amount of mid-range wallop to do battles with traffic – and the open road.
It’s not a machine meant for racing but it’s possible to cruise at a steady 80–100 km/h and the vibes can be kept under control.
Its counter-balancer shaft also means for a super-smooth ride over more of its thumpier rivals pair.
Comfort, Handling, and Braking
The CB350 comes with half-duplex cradle frame, telescopic front forks and twin shock at rear for comfortable ride and balanced handling.
It does a great job of soaking up potholes and ragged patches, with its pliant suspension tuning.
Despite appearances, the bike feels steady in corners and confidence-inspiring, even on high speeds.
Braking is via a 310mm front and 240mm rear disc with dual-channel ABS, and offers decent amount of feedback and safety under hard braking.
19-inch-wheels at the front and 18-inch at the rear provide a nice road presence and comfortable ride on city and slightly rough terrains.
Features and Technology
The CB350 is packed with features which are not usually found in its category.
It gets Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC) — which is Honda’s term for traction control — side-stand engine cut-off,
A semi-digital instrument console and Bluetooth for connecting smartphones, which comes with features like turn-by-turn navigation and call alerts in higher models.
These elements, along with the overall build quality of the bike, gives the impression that Honda has surpassed merely producing a retro motorcycle;
it’s the premium play between heritage and contemporary convenience.
Pros of Honda H’ness CB350
Elegant Retro design With a Deluxe finish
Refined and Torquey Engine
Good for Daily Use and Touring Style Rides
Contemporary Technology in the form of HSTC and Bluetooth
Reliable and Cost-Effective
Cons of Honda H’ness CB350
Slightly Pricey Near the Competition
Overseas Only (BigWing Limited)
Might need a bit more detail in the instrument cluster.
No 6th Gear
Not for the Aggressive Rider
Honda CB350: Conclusion
The Honda CB 350 is a handsome motorcycle, no two ways about it: but it’s also a well-crafted machine, and one with a sense of luxury, from its fit and finish to its ride experience.
From the advanced, compact Brembo Master Cylinder–to the fully adjustable suspension and adjustable levers,
it has advanced the standards of one of the most venerable model ranges in motorcycling history.
It costs a little more than its nearest competitors, but the level of refinement, dependability, and brand credibility are well worth the premium.
For riders who want a classic with modern urban usability, the CB350 is a strong choice that’s a mix of heritage and Honda’s technical supremacy.