OVERVIEW & PRICE
PERFORMANCE & ENGINE
At the heart of the Honda CB 350 RS lies a robust 348.36cc, 4-stroke, OHC, air-cooled, single-cylinder engine. This powerplant delivers a respectable 15.5 kW maximum power at 5500 rpm and a peak torque of 30 Nm at 3000 rpm. The engine has a Programmed Fuel Injection (PGM-FI) system, ensuring efficient fuel delivery and optimal performance across various riding conditions.These figures translate to smooth acceleration and robust performance, making the CB 350 RS equally adept at city commuting and highway cruising. The CB 350 RS has a smooth 5-speed gearbox, enhancing the riding experience. A notable feature is the assist slipper clutch, which facilitates smooth clutch operations and prevents rear wheel hopping during aggressive downshifts. This technology mainly benefits riders who enjoy spirited riding or frequently navigate through urban traffic.
MILEAGE & FUEL EFFICIENCY
The Honda CB 350 RS is designed to be a fuel-efficient option for both daily commuting and long rides. The claimed mileage for the CB 350 RS is approximately 35 kmpl. It has a generous 15-litre fuel tank capacity, allowing extended rides without frequent refuelling.It’s important to note that real-world fuel consumption differs from official figures. Driving conditions, rider behaviour, and vehicle load can significantly impact mileage. Real-time fuel consumption can generally be around 20% higher than official values.
FEATURES & TECHNOLOGY
The Honda CB 350 RS comes packed with features that enhance both safety and convenience:
- Selectable Torque Control(HSTC):This system helps mitigate rear wheel slip, providing an added layer of security during rides.
- Honda Smartphone Voice Control System (HSVCS): This feature allows riders to control smartphone functions via Bluetooth, including navigation, phone calls, and music playback, adding a modern touch to the retro-styled bike.
- Emergency Stop Signal: This feature enhances safety by alerting other road users during sudden braking and is particularly useful in high-traffic situations.
- LED Lighting: The bike has LED headlamps and under-seat LED tail lamps, which improve visibility and add to its stylish appearance.
- Advanced Digital-Analogue Meter: This display provides essential information such as gear position, mileage indicators, and distance to empty, keeping the rider well-informed.
BUILD QUALITY
The Honda CB 350 RS is noted for its quality components and construction. The materials used throughout the motorcycle are described as well-made, focusing on quality and durability. This attention to detail is evident in the bike’s design and construction aspects. The CB 350 RS showcases Honda’s attention to detail in its design, featuring a dual-tone fuel tank, pin-striping, and a 7Y-shaped front alloy wheel that enhances its sporty and modern look.However, it’s worth noting that there have been some reports of rusting issues and unfinished welding joints. These concerns suggest that while the materials may be of high quality, there might be inconsistencies in the manufacturing process or quality control that Honda could address to further improve the overall build quality.
HANDLING
The Honda CB 350 RS is known for its excellent handling characteristics, making it a joy to ride in various conditions. It offers neutral and predictable handling, inspiring confidence in riders. Its design, which includes a 19-inch front wheel and a 17-inch rear wheel with block pattern MRF tyres, contributes to stable and confident handling in various road conditions.The ergonomics of the CB 350 RS have been tweaked to provide a sportier riding position compared to its sibling, the H’ness CB350. The foot pegs are positioned 112mm behind and 12mm higher. At the same time, the handlebar is slightly wider and placed higher and farther. This setup provides a more connected feel with the bike, enhancing the overall handling experience.Switchable traction control is a beneficial feature, especially for new riders. It helps prevent unnecessary wheelspin on slippery surfaces, adding to the bike’s handling safety. The wider rear tyre enhances cornering stability, making the CB 350 RS a reliable choice for riders who enjoy spirited riding through twisty roads.
COMFORT
The CB 350 RS offers a comfortable riding position that is slightly forward-biased, striking a balance between sportiness and comfort for long rides. The seat is firm and supportive, allowing riders to spend long hours in the saddle without significant fatigue. The ride quality is slightly stiffer at low speeds than some competitors but remains composed as speed increases. The suspension setup isolates big potholes, providing a smooth ride over poor roads.The CB 350 RS is suitable for long solo rides, and its upright riding position contributes to comfort on extended tours. The seat has been designed with better cushioning and a retro appeal, which adds to the motorcycle’s overall comfort. However, the suede-like texture of the seat may require more maintenance in dusty environments.
STYLING
The Honda CB 350 RS boasts distinctive styling in the mid-size motorcycle segment. It features a retro-inspired design with modern touches, appealing to young and older riders. It sports a sleek fuel tank, minimalist side panels, and a classic round headlamp that gives it a timeless look.The motorcycle incorporates sporty design elements, such as a compact tail section, upswept exhaust, and blacked-out engine components, which add to its dynamic appearance. The CB 350 RS is equipped with full LED lighting, including a distinctive LED headlamp and taillight, which enhances visibility and aesthetics. Honda has paid attention to the details, with high-quality paint finishes, chrome accents, and well-crafted body panels contributing to the bike’s premium feel.
COLOUR OPTIONS AND VARIANTS
The Honda CB 350 RS is available in the following colour options:
- Mat Axis Grey Metallic – DLX PRO
- Pearl Deep Ground Grey- DLX PRO
- Pearl Igneous Black Yellow – DLX PRO
- Rebel Red Metallic – DLX -PRO
- Pearl Deep Ground Grey-DLX
- Pearl Igneous Black-DLX
Regarding variants, Honda offers the CB 350 RS in 4 variants, and they are:
- DLX
- DLX PRO
- DLX PRO DUAL TONE
- CUSTOM
VALUE FOR MONEY
The Honda CB 350 RS is positioned as a premium offering in the mid-capacity motorcycle segment in India. With prices starting from Rs ₹ 2,15,500 (Ex-Showroom), it competes with models like the Triumph Scrambler 400 X and the KTM 390 Adventure X. Honda’s reputation for reliability and quality engineering adds value to the purchase.The inclusion of modern features like HSTC and HSVCS enhances the overall package. The balance of power and efficiency makes it suitable for both city riding and highway cruising. The retro-modern design appeals to riders looking for a blend of classic aesthetics and contemporary functionality.
VERDICT
The Honda CB 350 RS is a solid choice in the Indian mid-size motorcycle market. It merges retro design with modern features, appealing to style-conscious riders and practical users. Key advantages include excellent handling, comfort, an attractive look, and advanced features like traction control and LED lighting.Honda’s reliability further enhances its appeal. While it may lack the power some riders want for highways, the CB 350 RS performs well for city commuting and weekend rides. Competitive pricing offers good value for money. It’s an excellent option for those seeking classic charm and modern engineering.
PROS
- Attractive retro-modern styling
- Comfortable ride quality and good handling characteristics
- Reliable engine performance with strong mid-range torque
- Competitive pricing with a comprehensive feature set
- Honda’s reputation for reliability and quality
- Advanced safety features like dual-channel ABS and traction control
CONS
- Some users feel the engine could use more power for highway performance.
- Limited colour options compared to some competitors
- The suede-like seat texture may require extra maintenance in dusty conditions
- Slightly stiffer ride at low speeds compared to some rivals
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ABOUT HONDA COMPANY
Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India Pvt. Ltd. (HMSI), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Honda Motor Company, Japan, has been a dominant force in the Indian two-wheeler market since its establishment in 1999. Known for its innovation, quality, and intense focus on customer satisfaction, HMSI has steadily grown to become one of the leading players in the industry. gold wing Offering a wide range of products, from new bikes to well-established models, the honda company caters to the diverse needs of Indian consumers by providing motorcycles and scooters that excel in performance, reliability,affordable price and fuel efficiency. Whether you’re exploring Honda motorcycles for daily commuting or seeking performance-driven models, HMSI continues to deliver options with cutting-edge technology at competitive pricing. For those interested in staying updated with Honda bike’s prices or exploring their lineup, Honda’s commitment to excellence makes it a trusted brand across the country, cementing its position in the growing Honda Bikes India market.
History and Growth
HMSI was incorporated in 1999 and commenced its Indian operations in May 2001 with the launch of its first model, the Honda Activa. Over the years, HMSI has expanded its manufacturing capabilities and product portfolio, becoming the second-largest two-wheeler company in India with over 60 million customers.
Key Milestones and Developments
- 2001: Honda entered the Indian market with the Activa, marking its debut in the scooter segment.
- 2002: Honda started exports from India and obtained ISO 14001 certification.
- 2004: The brand launched the CB Unicorn, entering the 150cc motorcycle segment.
- 2006: Diversified into the motorcycle segment with the launch of the 125cc CB Shine.
- 2008: Introduced the Combi-Brake System with Equalizer technology, an industry first.
- 2009: Introduced Combi-Brake System with equalizer technology, an industry first.
- 2011: Honda split with Hero and became the only Honda in the Indian two-wheeler industry. This year also marked the entry into the 110cc motorcycle segment with the Dream Yuga. The second manufacturing plant was inaugurated at Tapukara, Rajasthan
- 2012: Achieved the milestone of 1 crore cumulative domestic sales and inaugurated a new Technical Centre with integrated SEDBQ function.
- 2013: The third manufacturing plant, with a capacity of 1.2 million units, was inaugurated at Narsapura, Karnataka. Honda Eco Technology (HET) was introduced to improve mileage.
- 2015: Achieved the two crore sales milestone and launched 15 new models, including the first in-India big bike, CBR 650F.
- 2016: The fourth manufacturing plant, with a capacity of 1.2 million units, was inaugurated at Vithalapur, Gujarat. Honda 2Wheeler India sales crossed the 5 million mark annually for the first time.
- 2017: Expanded capacity at the third manufacturing plant to 2.4 million units, bringing the total capacity to 6.4 million units annually from 11 assembly lines at four plants. The iconic Activa became India’s No. 1 selling two-wheeler, trusted by 1.5 crore families.
- 2019: Established the exclusive premium big bike business vertical ‘Honda BigWing’.
- 2021: Reached the 5 crore domestic sales milestone.
- 2022: Honda 2Wheelers India celebrated its 35 millionth two-wheeler landmark.
- 2023: Honda overtook Hero in domestic wholesales, clocking over 18.53 lakh units in the April-July period.
- 2024: Expanded capacity with a new assembly line at the Vitthalapur plant.
Manufacturing Facilities
HMSI operates four manufacturing plants across India:
- Manesar, Gurugram, Haryana: The first plant started production in 2001.
- Tapukara, Alwar, Rajasthan: The second plant was inaugurated in 2011.
- Narsapura, Kolar, Karnataka: The third plant was inaugurated in 2013.
- Vitthalapur, Ahmedabad, Gujarat: This is the fourth plant, inaugurated in 2016 and recently expanded in 2024.
These plants collectively have a production capacity of 7.05 million units per annum.
HMSI is the only two-wheeler manufacturer in India with a product portfolio ranging from entry-level 100cc models to the flagship 1800cc Gold Wing Tour.
Market Position and Achievements
HMSI is the second-largest two-wheeler manufacturer in India, following Hero MotoCorp. The company has a strong market presence with a wide range of products catering to different segments from 100cc to 1800cc. HMSI has achieved several significant milestones, including:
- Six crore domestic sales milestone in 2024.
- 35 million two-wheeler mark in 2018.
- First motorcycle manufacturer to achieve 800 Grand Prix victories globally in 2020.
Future Plans
HMSI is set to enter the electric mobility segment, with plans to launch an e-scooter and e-motorcycle later this year. The company also focuses on developing fuel-efficient products and integrating flex-fuel technology into its portfolio. Additionally, HMSI aims to strengthen its Manesar plant as a global resource factory and expand its export horizons.
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