Honda CB350 Urban Scrambler In The Works?
The new bike, based on the CB350, will be unveiled on February 16, 2021.
The new bike based on the CB350 will be unveiled on 16 February 2021
[UPDATE: The Honda CB350RS has been launched in India. Check out the details in our launch report.]
Some time ago, we had poked fun at the possibility of a Scrambler version of the Honda H’Ness CB350 in the pipeline. Looks like we weren’t entirely off the mark -- Honda has just teased its first new launch for 2021, and it seems a lot like an urban scrambler. Perhaps the CB350X? The bike will be unveiled on February 16 and could carry a price tag of around Rs 2.10 lakh (ex-showroom).
So what’s different in this model? Well, a lot actually. First and foremost, it looks more contemporary compared to the CB350, thanks to a new set of alloy wheels, LED lighting, and a matte- finished exhaust end can. Details like a quilted seat, cast grabrail, and a raised rear fender help differentiate it from the retro-looking CB350. Then there’s the tail light and turn winkers which seem to be inspired by the sportier CB300. However, the twin shock absorber setup is the same as that of the H’Ness.
Those tyres may look like block pattern rubber but are actually MRF Nylogrip Zapper KURVE -- tyres used on the Bajaj V15. This further cements our suspicion of the CB350X being a soft-roader rather than a hardcore scrambler. Think more on the lines of the Benelli Leoncino 250 and the Husqvarna Svartpilen 250.
If you look closer, you will notice that the suspension is a bit taller, highlighted by the gap in the rear fender. The rear sprocket seems to be a smidge larger and may offer better bottom-end drive -- a useful thing to have while off-roading. So, you could possibly hit light trails if required. Also Read: Honda Working On a Hornet 2.0-based ADV For India.
The engine is likely to be the same BS6-compliant 348.36cc single-cylinder air-cooled mill that powers the CB350. However, it may have different gear ratios for better bottom-end performance. For reference, the CB350, that's mated to a 6-speed transmission, puts out 21PS and 30Nm of peak torque. Its braking setup is likely to remain unchanged -- disc brakes at both ends paired with dual-channel ABS.
Honda may be trying to capitalize on the versatile CB350 platform to target a broader range of audience. The small-capacity-scrambler segment has been gaining momentum lately, and this could be the perfect opportunity for Honda to take on the Svartpilen 250's dominance. Simultaneously, this could also equip the bikemaker to compete with Royal Enfield’s upcoming Hunter 350.
Honda CB350RS User Reviews
- the best liability i have boughtI chose this bike because I liked its retrospective and a twitch of modern blend along with very comfortable riding position and smooth firing of engine. Really good for everyday commute in city and a bit long weekend rides. The ride has been smooth and comfortable, especially on the roads, the handling feels stable and has enough power for highways. Mileage is descent as I already have experienced hunter 350 and overall the bike gives emense pleasure while driving. Yes, I would recommend it to someone who is really into bike and not into some name hypes, also who is interested in for stylish daily commuting bike as well as weekend rides. Perfect for the ones who love relaxed crusing.Read More1
- The underated in classic segmentWhile i saw many 350 cc bikes and i think this the most compatible 350cc bike and you can never disagree with honda reliability, overall the best 350 cc in classic segment among bikes like Enfield and yezdi. Its been great so far the bike is giving pretty good, mileage and the comfort has been no issue for me when long run great, the only problem i had the power drop over the years and thats the only one. Yeah for sure for those people who really are interested in classic segment, don't get your mind confused by going with bullet all this should be in your list for you to be considered cause you have to ride your bikesRead More4
- CB350rs reviewI chose this bike because mainly my routes are on highways and ofcourse, because of the japanese reliability honda offers, plus it's the best bike in the segment in my opinion as it gets a fair amount of safety features like traction control, dual channel abs and because of the slipper clutch provided, gear changing and overall the engine is butter smooth. Also it gives the best mileage in the segment too, as I have ridden a classic 350 before, I can definitely tell the difference. Rides are butter smooth, it's like the bike is gliding, absolutely 0 vibration, it's not that comfortable as the hness 350 as it has a more aggressive riding stanc than the hness, but it's fairly comfortable, not that bad, the only thing bugs me are the stock seats, it's very uncomfortable for the pillion and your rear may hurt a little on long rides, but overall I'll rate it a 4/5, which is not bad at all. If you want the best looking neo retro bike in the segment, the cb350 RS is for you hands down, it has great mileage, very low maintenance cost, fairly comfortable (change the stock seats) and it feels rarer than other bikes in the segment as the BigWing network is so limited, and that gives you the satisfaction you need.Read More1 3
- Excellent BikeI must say, it is a very good bike at this range because of the mileage and the power. The comfort of this bike is also top notch. I would recommend this bike to my friends. Also the engine is very good. So good. Now I am planning to taking the bike to Kozhikode. The comfort of this bike is very good. The mileage of this bike is around 35 kmpl. The power of this bike is outstanding in compared to other bikes. The mileage and the power of this bike is top notch at this range. The comfort of this bike is also great. The power of the engine is also very impressive at this range. So yeah, I would recommend this bike to everyone.Read More3 2
- Smooth Engine, Great Looks, Efficient Mileage!!I was willing to go in 160cc or above. I took test drive, the engine smoothness and stunning look are the 2 key factors. Apart from that Cb350rs has better mileage than speed 400 and price range is also lower comparatively. Better than Triumph in mileage and better than RE in performance. It’s suited for those who are willing to do rides on weekends and wants to use as daily commute as well. Highway ride is better compared to city. Still having 350cc with dual channels abs helps you out manoeuvre others and gives extra edge while breaking. City mileage between 33.5 to 36 kmpl and highway mileage varies between 38 to 44 kmpl, depending on riding style and roads.Read More8 7