In India, Royal Enfield Classic 350 is now available for Rs. 1.90 lakh (ex-showroom). It doesn’t need to be emphasized again how dominant it is in India’s mid-capacity cruiser and sport bike market. Even with competitors in the same market, including Jawa and Bajaj, we cannot move the Chennai-based firm. Here is how the new model compares to its primary opponent, the Honda Hness CB350, given that it has undergone several alterations. Let’s compare Royal Enfield Classic 350 vs Honda Hness CB350.
Royal Enfield Classic 350 Vs Honda Hness CB350
Based on: Powertrain and Transmission
Compared to the Classic 350, the Honda Hness CB350 has a 348.36cc, air-cooled, single-cylinder engine that produces 21 bhp at 5,500 rpm and 30 Nm of peak torque at 3,000 rpm. In addition, the five-speed gearbox’s inclusion of a slipper clutch is another noteworthy improvement.
The 349-cc single-cylinder, four-stroke engine of the new Royal Enfield produces 20.2 horsepower and 27 Nm of torque. The popular engine that drives the Meteor 350 served as the inspiration for this engine. It is connected to a 5-speed transmission and has electronic fuel injection.
Based on: Suspension and Braking
The Honda Hness CB350 has twin hydraulic shocks at the back and telescopic suspension up front. The motorcycle has a 310mm disc in front and a 240mm disc at the rear for braking. Additionally, the bike has dual-channel ABS.
In contrast, the Royal Enfield Classic 350 is supported at the front by 41mm telescopic forks with 130mm travel and is built around a twin downtube spine frame. The motorcycle has twin-tube shock absorbers with a 6-step preload adjustment at the rear.
Based on: Features
The Honda Hness CB350 has an advantage regarding features because it is a more recent model on the market. As a result, it receives a cluster of instruments with an analog configuration for speed, gear position, average fuel efficiency, and a fuel gauge. In addition, the Honda Smartphone Voice Control (HSVC), which enables users to pair their smartphones through Bluetooth, is also included for those who choose the Deluxe Pro model. Other noteworthy features are the engine start-stop switch, warning switch, and Honda Selectable Torque Control system, which aids in maintaining rear-wheel traction.
The 2023 Classic 350 has an upgraded instrument cluster with an LCD and a fuel gauge for the first time. Two trip meters are also available. The Tripper navigation display is also included with the highest-spec Chrome model. It only displays information relating to navigation and utilizes Google Maps data via your smartphone. There aren’t any notifications linked to calls or SMS, though. The bike still uses halogen-powered bulbs despite having upgraded all-around lights. Another modification is the upgraded switchgear taken from the Meteor 350.
Based on: Price and Verdict
The new-generation Royal Enfield Classic 350 is priced between Rs. 1.90 Lakh and Rs. 2.15 Lakh, slightly more expensive than the outgoing model. However, the more excellent price is justified in light of the upgraded engine and additional equipment.
The Honda Hness CB350 offers the best value for the money due to all the high-end amenities it provides and the reasonably low price, which ranges from Rs. 2.09 lakh to Rs. 2.14 lakh. However, the majority of fans of retro-style motorcycles are likely to find the Royal Enfield’s appearance to be more appealing.
Conclusion
Both motorcycles are excellent in what they do best. The Honda Hness CB350 is a fantastic choice for anyone searching for a motorbike with classic styling and brisk performance, and the famed Honda dependability is a bonus. In light of the preceding, the CB350 makes more sense. Although the Hness CB350 is a fantastic motorcycle, it lacks something intangible, soul, and character that the Classic 350 possesses in plenty. Therefore, before selecting, we advise you to have a test drive if you plan to purchase a vintage roadster.