KEY HIGHLIGHTS
- Honda CB 350 launched in India at Rs. 2.0 lakhs ex-showroom
- Directly rivals the Royal Enfield Classic 350
- Check out the comparison below
Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India (HMSI) has taken the wraps off its latest offering, the Honda CB350. Priced at a special introductory rate of Rs. 1,99,900 (ex-showroom, Delhi), the Honda CB350 is now open for bookings at authorized BigWing dealerships, with deliveries poised to kick off soon. But this launch has directly challenged the biggest player in the segment, which is the Royal Enfield Classic 350.
So, the obvious question is, who fares better than the other, and what sets them apart? Let's find out.
2023 Honda CB350 Vs. RE Classic 350: The Power Struggle
| Honda CB350 | RE Classic 350 | |
| Engine | 348.36cc, air-cooled, 4-stroke, single-cylinder | Single cylinder, 4-stroke, Air-Oil cooled 349cc |
| Power | 15.5 kW | 14.87 kW |
| Torque | 29.4 Nm | 27 Nm |
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As the segment reached above the 300cc mark, it was more about power and torque than anything else. While some enthusiasts crave more power, others want a torquier engine. And with this new launch, Honda seems to have outbid the RE Classic 350, although by a slight margin. In terms of power, it produces 15.7 kW, which is a bit higher than the 14.87 kW of the Classic 350. This further encompasses the torque figures, which are higher for the Honda at 29.4 Nm in comparison to the Classic 350's 27 Nm.
How practically powerful is it on the roads is yet to be seen, but as far as numerics are concerned, the Honda puts this one in the bag.
Features: Who Offers What?
The CB350 boasts an array of features, including a digital-analog instrument cluster with a heritage-inspired design, complemented by the Honda Smartphone Voice Control System (HSVCS). It incorporates advanced functionalities like an assist and slipper clutch and the Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC). Safety features include an emergency stop signal, signaling sudden braking to vehicles behind by flashing hazard lamps. Handling is enhanced by substantial telescopic front forks and a rear suspension with pressurized nitrogen. The braking system comprises a 310mm front disc and a 240mm rear disc, both supported by dual-channel ABS for added safety.
Coming to the RE Classic 350 gets a semi-digital instrument cluster with an analog speedometer along with a digital screen that provides various ride info and statistics. On top of this, you get the Tripper Navigation which seamlessly integrates with the Royal Enfield app and offers directions, call alerts, and more. Moreover, the Classic 350 features a front suspension with telescopic, 41mm forks, and 130mm travel. The rear suspension consists of twin-tube emulsion shock absorbers with a 6-step adjustable preload. It also gets disc brakes at both ends complemented by dual-channel ABS.
The Price War!
Even after all this, it also comes down to the pricing as well. In a price-sensitive market like India, the Royal Enfield Classic 350 comes out as the more affordable option between the two.
| Honda CB350 | RE Classic 350 | |
| Starting Price | Rs. 2.0 Lakhs | Rs. 1.93 lakhs |
| Top-end Price | Rs. 2.18 lakhs | Rs. 2.24 lakhs |
However, with its various customizations and variants on offer, the RE Classic 350 also happens to be slightly expensive in its top-end selection.
Verdict
The Honda CB350 is the biggest bet by the Japanese automaker against the dominance of Royal Enfield in the Indian biking space. It offers more power, more torque and an impressive features list. However, the Classic 350, even with a bleak difference in power, offers more affordability, strong tech list, and the brand name synonymous with the segment. Who do you think takes the lead here? Do share you thoughts. Also, If you are someone with a passion for engines mounted on wheels, you must join our Whatsapp Group Community of petrolheads to find out more exciting stuff about the Auto world.
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