Honda H’ness CB350: Honda Motorcycle and Scooter India has made a bold entry into the mid-size motorcycle segment with the launch of the H’ness CB350. This new offering, which made its global debut on September 30, 2020, is set to challenge established players like the Royal Enfield Classic 350, Jawa, and Benelli Imperiale 400. With its blend of classic styling and modern features, the H’ness CB350 aims to capture the hearts of Indian motorcycle enthusiasts.
Pricing and Variants
The Honda H’ness CB350 comes in two variants: DLX and DLX Pro. The DLX variant is priced at Rs 1.85 lakh, while the DLX Pro comes with a slight premium at Rs 1.90 lakh (both prices ex-showroom, Gurugram). These introductory prices position the H’ness CB350 competitively in the mid-size motorcycle segment.
Availability and Booking
Honda has chosen to sell the H’ness CB350 exclusively through its premium Honda BigWing dealerships. Bookings for the motorcycle began on the day of its unveiling, and deliveries are scheduled to start from October 17, 2020. This quick turnaround from launch to delivery showcases Honda’s confidence in the product and its readiness to meet customer demand.
Design and Styling
The H’ness CB350 boasts a design that pays homage to classic motorcycles while incorporating modern elements. Its retro-inspired look is complemented by contemporary features, creating a unique blend that’s likely to appeal to a wide range of riders. The use of chrome on the exhaust and mirrors adds a touch of elegance to the overall design.
Feature-Rich Package
Honda has equipped the H’ness CB350 with an impressive array of features, ensuring it stands out in its segment. Some key features include:
1. Full-LED headlamp and taillamp with winkers
2. Digital-analogue instrument panel
3. Honda selectable torque control
4. Assist and slipper clutch
5. Engine start/stop switch
6. Hazard switch
The DLX Pro variant goes a step further by offering additional features like the Honda Smartphone voice control system and dual-horn, providing extra value for tech-savvy riders.
Engine and Performance
At the heart of the H’ness CB350 is a 348.36cc, 4-stroke, OHC, air-cooled, single-cylinder, fuel-injected engine. This powerplant delivers 20.8bhp of power and 30Nm of torque, promising a good balance of performance and efficiency. The engine is mated to a five-speed gearbox, which should provide smooth power delivery across various riding conditions.
Chassis and Suspension
The H’ness CB350 is built around a half-duplex cradle frame, known for its stability and durability. The suspension setup consists of a telescopic fork at the front and twin hydraulic shocks at the rear. This combination should offer a comfortable ride while maintaining good handling characteristics, suitable for both city riding and highway cruising.
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Wheels and Brakes
Honda has equipped the H’ness CB350 with a 19-inch alloy wheel at the front and an 18-inch alloy wheel at the rear. The braking system comprises a 310mm disc at the front and a 240mm disc at the rear. Both variants of the H’ness CB350 come standard with dual-channel ABS, ensuring enhanced safety and braking performance in various riding conditions.
Color Options
Honda offers a range of attractive color options for the H’ness CB350, catering to different tastes:
DLX Variant:
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- Pearl Night Star Black
- Matte Marshal Green Metallic
- Precious Red Metallic
DLX Pro Variant:
- Pearl Night Star Black with Spear Silver Metallic
- Athletic Blue Metallic with Virtuous White
- Matte Steel Black Metallic with Matte Massive Grey Metallic
These color choices allow buyers to personalize their ride and stand out on the road.
Warranty and After-Sales Support
Honda demonstrates confidence in the H’ness CB350’s reliability by offering a standard three-year warranty. Additionally, customers have the option to extend this warranty for another three years, providing long-term peace of mind. This generous warranty package could be a significant selling point for potential buyers.
Market Positioning and Competition
The Honda H’ness CB350 enters a highly competitive segment dominated by established players like Royal Enfield. Its pricing strategy and feature set indicate that Honda is aiming to attract both traditionalists and modern riders looking for a blend of classic style and contemporary technology. The success of the H’ness CB350 will largely depend on how well it can differentiate itself from its rivals and deliver on the promised riding experience.
Conclusion
The Honda H’ness CB350 represents an exciting new entry in the mid-size motorcycle segment. With its attractive design, modern features, and competitive pricing, it has the potential to shake up the market and offer a compelling alternative to established players. As deliveries begin and more riders get their hands on the H’ness CB350, it will be interesting to see how it performs in real-world conditions and whether it can carve out a significant market share in this highly competitive segment.
Honda’s decision to sell the H’ness CB350 through its premium BigWing dealerships suggests that the company is positioning this motorcycle as a premium offering. This strategy could help in building a strong brand image for the H’ness CB350 and attract discerning buyers who are looking for a high-quality, feature-rich motorcycle in the 350cc segment.
As the mid-size motorcycle market in India continues to grow, the introduction of the Honda H’ness CB350 provides more choice for consumers and is likely to drive innovation and competition in the segment. Whether you’re a classic bike enthusiast or a modern rider looking for a versatile and stylish motorcycle, the H’ness CB350 certainly deserves consideration.