KEY HIGHLIGHTS
- Honda H'ness CB350 price starts at Rs. 2.39 lakhs
- Expensive than the RE Classic 350 by Rs. 14,000
- Offers a plethora of features with a range of segment first features
Gone are the days when it was just the Royal Enfield that offered a classic retro bike with a drool-worthy exhaust note and a commanding road presence. The Honda H'ness CB350 from the Japanese bikemaker, ever since it landed in the segment has been giving a tough heat to the top-sellers of this segment owing to its fresh take on mass appeal complemented by a more refined engine. But that isn't even the tip of the iceberg. The CB350 comes with a range of tech on board that is enough to make rivals run for their money. And that's exactly what we are going to cover in this section, But before that, make sure to join our 91Wheels Whatsapp Channel, specifically curated for all the avid petrolheads with extensive coverage of the latest news and insights from the automotive space.
Also Read- Royal Enfield Classic 350 Key Features Explained: A Modern Retro Bike?
1. LED Headlamps
The Honda H'ness CB350 comes with an LED headlamp for better illumination on the road ahead. On top of this, it also offers fire ring-type LED winkers, further improving its appeal.
Competition Check- Its arch-rival, the Royal Enfield Classic 350 comes with an LED headlamp in its latest August 2024 update.
2. Honda Selectable Torque Control System- First In Segment
HSTC, or "Honda Selectable Torque Control," is a system designed to enhance traction and vehicle stability by detecting rear wheel spin and electronically adjusting engine power. The "Selectable" aspect allows riders to adjust the level of control or deactivate it entirely based on their preferences, providing a customizable riding experience. This comes really handy in adverse weather conditions where the bike has the risk of slipping or losing traction
Competition Check- Being a segment's first feature, no other rival offers a selectable traction control system.
3. Voice Controlled Honda Smartphone Voice Control System (HSVCS)
The Honda RoadSync app seamlessly connects with the Honda Smartphone Voice Control System (HSVCS) on the Honda H'ness CB350, allowing you to manage key features directly from the motorcycles handlebar. This system integrates with your smartphone to provide access to navigation, phone calls, incoming messages, music playback, weather updates, and volume control. Using the buttons on the left handlebar, riders can easily switch between functions, with information relayed through the headset, keeping your smartphone safe and your hands on the handlebars.
Competition Check- The RE Classic 350 also offers Bluetooth functionality, but lacks the flexibility of music control, message alerts, and more, while also missing out on voice controls.
4. Side Stand Engine Inhibitor- Segment First
You no longer need to look down to check if your side stand is deployed; a quick glance at your meter will provide all you need to know. Plus, the integrated inhibitor function ensures the engine won't start if the side stand is down, adding an extra layer of safety and ease to your riding experience.
Competition Check- Being a segment's first feature again, no rivals offer this side stand engine inhibitor function.
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5. USB Charging Port
The Honda H'ness CB350 comes with a USB-A charging port just beside the instrument console which comes in really handy when venturing on long rides or deep expeditions, for on-the-go charging solutions for your devices.
Competition Check- With the latest August 2024 update, RE Classic 350 also comes with a USB charging port but offers better functionality with a USB-C. port.
Verdict
The Honda H'ness CB350 is one of the most refined bike in its class, something that Honda bikes are known for. On top of this, feature focused buyers are drawn more towards it as evident from its rich tech list discussed above. But the road hasn't been smooth as it has failed to make a significant name for itself until now, still being over-shadowed by the mammoth RE legacy. It deserves a bit more attention as it scores better than some of its key rivals in certain areas that are crucial in relation to the overall expereience.
