Honda CB350: In the vibrant and competitive landscape of the Indian two-wheeler market, the Honda CB350 has emerged as a strong contender, breathing new life into the classic motorcycle segment. Since its launch, this modern classic has not only caught the attention of motorcycle enthusiasts but has also posed a significant challenge to the established players in the segment. Let’s take a deeper dive into the journey of the Honda CB350 in India, exploring its impact, features and future prospects.
Origin of Honda CB350 in India
Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India (HMSI) introduced the CB350 in 2020, entering the modern classic segment dominated by Royal Enfield for decades. This launch was a strategic move by Honda to meet the growing demand for retro-style motorcycles offering modern technology and reliability.
Design philosophy: A blend of nostalgia with modernity
The CB350 takes inspiration from Honda’s rich heritage, especially the CB series of the 1970s. However, this is no mere throwback; Instead, it reflects a perfect blend of classic design elements with contemporary features:
- retro styling:The round headlamps, teardrop-shaped fuel tank and spoke wheels create a deep sense of nostalgia.
- modern touch: LED lighting, digital-analog instrument cluster and alloy wheels (on select variants) bring it firmly into the 21st century.
Performance and Specifications
At the heart of the CB350 is a purpose-built engine that combines smooth performance with distinctive thump:
- engine: 348.36cc, air-cooled, single-cylinder
- power output: 20.8 bhp @ 5,500 rpm
- Torque:: 30 Nm @ 3,000 rpm
- transfer:5-speed gearbox
The engine’s long-stroke design contributes to its strong low- and mid-range torque, making it ideal for both city riding and highway cruising.
ride and handling
The CB350 is built on a half-duplex cradle frame, providing a balance of stiffness and flexibility:
- suspension: Telescopic front forks and twin hydraulic rear shocks
- break: 310 mm disc (front), 240 mm disc (rear) with dual-channel ABS
- tire: 19-inch front, 18-inch rear (tubeless in alloy wheel variants)
This setup ensures stable handling and comfortable ride quality, addressing one of the key demands of the segment.
Technology and Features
Honda has equipped the CB350 with a number of modern features, setting new standards in the segment:
- Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC): A traction control system, rare in this class of motorcycles
- Assist and slipper clutch:For smooth gear shifts and less wheel hop during aggressive downshifts
- Honda Smartphone Voice Control System (HSVCS): Allows riders to connect their smartphones for navigation and call management
- led lighting: All-LED lighting for better visibility and modern aesthetics
Variants and price
The CB350 is available in multiple variants catering to different preferences:
- cb350 dlx: Base variant with spoke wheels
- cb350 dlx pro: Honda adds dual-tone colors and smartphone voice control system
- cb350rs: A sportier iteration with different ergonomics and styling
Priced between ₹2.0 lakh to ₹2.2 lakh (ex-showroom), the CB350 positions itself as a premium offering in the segment.
Market influence and competition
The entry of Honda CB350 has disrupted the modern classic segment in India to a great extent:
challenging the existing
- Royal Enfield: The CB350 directly rivals the Royal Enfield Classic 350, challenging its long-standing dominance.
- Java: It also offers competition to the revived Java brand, offering similar retro appeal with Honda’s reputation for reliability.
sales performance
Since its launch, the CB350 has shown strong sales figures:
- Crossed 50,000 sales mark within a year of launch
- Consistently among the top sellers in the 300-350cc segment
consumer welcome
The CB350 has been well received by Indian consumers, who appreciate that:
- Smooth and refined engine
- Premium fit and finish
- Advanced features not commonly found in this segment
Some areas of feedback include:
- initial high price point
- Limited dealership network compared to competitors
Manufacturing and Localization
Honda has invested heavily in localizing the production of the CB350:
- Manufactured at Manesar plant in Haryana
- High level of localization (over 90%) to keep costs competitive.
- Supports “Make in India” initiative
This approach has allowed Honda to maintain quality control while remaining responsive to market demands.
Future prospects and rumored updates
As the CB350’s appeal continues to grow, there is speculation about future developments:
- Extended Edition Lineup: Rumors of a Café Racer or Scrambler version to further diversify the offering
- Increase in dealership network:Plans to expand Bigwing network to make CB350 more accessible across India
- Possible Engine Upgrade: Slightly larger engine variants announced to cater to highway touring enthusiasts
marketing strategy
Honda’s approach to marketing the CB350 has been multi-pronged:
- premium positioning: Sold through Honda’s Bigwing dealerships, emphasizing its premium nature
- digital campaign: Leveraging social media and online platforms to reach younger audiences
- experience the ride:Organizing community rides and events to build a stronger owner community
- customization options: Offering a range of genuine accessories for personalization
environmental considerations
In line with the growing environmental concerns, the CB350 conforms to the latest BS6 emission norms. Honda has implemented:
- Programmed Fuel Injection (PGM-FI) for optimized fuel efficiency and low emissions.
- Advanced catalytic converter design
The way forward: challenges and opportunities
As the CB350 continues its journey in the Indian market, it faces both challenges and opportunities:
Challenges
- expanding reach: Bigwing network needs to be broadened to compete with Royal Enfield’s extensive dealership presence
- keep the pace: Keeping product fresh in a rapidly evolving market
- price competitiveness: Balancing premium positioning with affordability in a price-sensitive market
opportunity
- Premium segment is growing: Increase in disposable income and aspiration for premium products
- export potential: Export potential to other markets where retro-styled motorcycles are gaining popularity
- electric future: Ability to leverage the CB350 platform for future electric or hybrid models
Conclusion: A new chapter in India’s motorcycle history
The Honda CB350 represents more than just a new model; It marks a change in the Indian motorcycle market. By blending classic aesthetics and Honda’s reputation for reliability with modern technology, the CB350 has carved a niche for itself in a segment long dominated by a single player.
As it evolves and adapts to consumer preferences, the CB350 is set to play a key role in shaping the future of the modern classic segment in India. Its success has not only boosted Honda’s presence in the premium motorcycle category but also raised the bar of what consumers can expect from a retro-styled motorcycle.
The Honda CB350’s journey in India is still in its early stages, but it has already left an indelible mark on the industry. As the motorcycle market in India matures and diversifies, the CB350 stands as a testament to the power of innovation, heritage and understanding consumer desires. Be it roaming the city streets or embarking on long highway journeys, the Honda CB350 is set to write new chapters in India’s rich motorcycle history.
