Honda H’ness CB350: Redefining the Classic for the Modern Times Honda’s H’ness CB350 is styled with retro character but it’s a blend of vintage style and modern technology.
Targeted at the cruiser and classic motorcycle users in India, the CB350 is for riders who want a retro-style machine and not a cost-effective bike that rides with aged suspension and electronics.
Well, with its timeless styling, satisfying exhaust growl, and easy-to-use power, that gray area of style and utility in the mid-size segment comes into focus.
Classic Design and Unique Presence
The CB350 has heritage from the very first glance you give it.
It sports retro-circular headlight, spoke wheels, gloss-metallic tank with chrome accents and twin-pod exhaust reminiscent of the 1960s.
Blacked-out engine covers, sculpted teardrop tank and upright handlebar finish things off with even more class.
(Curb) giving the bike a good stylish and make-able look on the road.
The build and fit-and-finish is solid, and it does give off an air of painted-metal flair instead of plastic.
Linear Powerdelivery, Best for cruising
The tank rests on a 348cc single-cylinder air- and oil-cooled engine with Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC).
Which gives this very pretty car all of 21 Ps at 5,500 Revs and 30 Nm of torque at 3,000 Revs to play with.
The motor pulls cleanly from low down through to mid throttle and is relaxed on the highway at 80–100km/h,
with the hassle-free six-speed box being well-gated and feeling positive.
Refinement is another shining point — vibrations are kept in check at all rpms and the exhaust note is alluring growl, not a rude, rude roar.
Riders who took the CS340 out seemed to have enjoyed making those easy overtakes and lane changes,
And overall impressively while managing a claimed 35-40 kmpl fuel efficiency under mixed riding conditions.
Ride Comfort and Handling
Although the CB350 is not designed for aggressive cornering, it offers great stability and ride comfort.
Its front telescopic forks and twin rear shocks plus a cushy split-seat arrangement are easy on the butt during long rides.
The bike sops up potholes and rough spots like a sponge, and the handlebars and seat make you ride more upright.
Add a twist of tarmac and the bike corners impressively well for its mass.
Wide handlebars yield satisfying near-geometric leverage while turning that inspires confidence on both open roads and city streets.
Its grip levels from the 19 inch front and 18 inch rear tyres on everyday riding conditions were good, but push it to its limits and you’ll feel the cruiser DNA.
Braking duties are performed by a 300mm front disc and a 240mm rear disc, both fit with dual-channel ABS for strong, and consistent stopping performance.
Tech and Instrumentation
Honda has lent the classic a bit of practicality with a semi-digital instrument cluster.
Clear analogue speedometer with large, easy-to-read digital display of odometer, trip meters, gear position, clock and fuel gauge.
It also adds up new features such as HSTC, Dual-Channel ABS, LED lighting and USB charging socket.
It doesn’t have Bluetooth or anything in the way of ride modes beyond TC, something rival bikes could have.
Pros:
Stylish retro design combined with high-quality, durable construction and a rich felt base for quiet movement.
Smooth engine is suited for cruiser role
Relaxed upright ergonomics help pace with long rides
Subtle tech: USB charger, dual channel ABS, HSTC
Strong street presence and design history importance
Cons:
High Kerb weight( ~202 kg) can make in city nip-n-tuck a bit cumbersome
Quicker rivals have more cornering agility
Sluggish on take off, not for spirited riding
Doesn’t come equipped with current smart tech such as Bluetooth or ride modes
Price premium compared to a rival of same spec
Honda H’ness CB350: Conclusion
The Honda H’ness CB350 is a well executed homage to retro motorcycling that offers good looks, character and urban practicality in equal height.
It’s not the fastest thing out there, but a soulful ride for those who care more for heritage, and smooth cruising, than to-the-limit performance.
Perfect to get out for weekend rides and casual commutes, this riders jacket offers personality and peace–not pandemonium–and is a classic for any modern rider.