Noida, Sep 23 (APAC Media): Honda Motorcycle and Scooter India has updated its CB350 motorcycle range for the 2026 model year, revising the variant structure, pricing and colour options as it continues to compete in India’s popular 350cc motorcycle segment dominated by Royal Enfield.
The updated Honda range includes the CB350, CB350C and CB350RS. Prices start at around Rs 1.95 lakh, ex-showroom, with the range extending to a little above Rs 2 lakh depending on the variant.
Honda has also dropped the “H’ness” name from its traditional roadster, which will now be sold simply as the CB350. The company has retained the core mechanical package, with the latest update focusing mainly on model positioning, pricing, colours and styling.
The CB350RS is available immediately, while deliveries of the updated CB350 and CB350C are scheduled to begin from October 2026, according to industry reports.
The motorcycles are sold through Honda’s BigWing premium motorcycle network.
The CB350 family continues to use a 348.36cc, single-cylinder, air-cooled engine. It produces 20.78 bhp at 5,500 rpm. Peak torque is rated at 30 Nm on the CB350 and CB350RS, while the CB350C develops 29.5 Nm.
The engine is paired with a five-speed gearbox and comes with an assist-and-slipper clutch. Honda also offers traction control across the range.
In comparison, the Royal Enfield Bullet 350, Classic 350 and Hunter 350 use a 349cc, single-cylinder, air-cooled engine producing 20.2 bhp and 27 Nm of torque. These motorcycles are also equipped with five-speed transmissions.
The Honda motorcycles have a slightly higher peak power figure and, on the CB350 and CB350RS, higher peak torque on paper.
However, engine output figures alone do not determine the overall riding character of a motorcycle.
Another notable feature of the Honda range is its 15-litre fuel tank. The CB350 family has a 1,441mm wheelbase, making it longer than the Bullet 350 and Classic 350, which use a 1,390mm wheelbase. The Hunter 350 has a shorter 1,370mm wheelbase.
Weight varies according to the model and variant. The CB350C weighs about 186 kg, while the Hunter 350 is around 181 kg. Certain versions of the Bullet 350 and Classic 350 can weigh close to 196 kg.
Honda has equipped the CB350 range with alloy wheels and tubeless tyres. The standard CB350 and CB350C use a 130-section rear tyre, while the sportier CB350RS gets a wider 150-section rear tyre.
Braking hardware includes disc brakes at both ends and dual-channel ABS. This equipment is offered across the Honda range, although Royal Enfield’s specifications vary between individual variants.
Technology is another area where the two manufacturers have taken different approaches.
Honda offers traction control and smartphone connectivity through its RoadSync system. Royal Enfield, meanwhile, offers its Tripper turn-by-turn navigation system on selected variants.
The Honda CB350 retains a classic roadster design, with a round headlamp and traditional proportions. The CB350RS has a more contemporary and sportier appearance, while the CB350C adopts a custom-inspired design with additional styling elements.
The latest update also brings new colour and graphic options across the range.
Royal Enfield’s competing motorcycles follow different design themes. The Bullet 350 focuses on traditional styling, the Classic 350 draws heavily on the company’s heritage design language, while the Hunter 350 uses a more compact roadster format.
Honda’s decision to offer three motorcycles around the same basic mechanical platform mirrors this approach, giving customers different styling choices without requiring a move to a different engine family.
The 2026 update is therefore not a major-generation change for the CB350. Instead, Honda has concentrated on simplifying the portfolio, revising prices and refreshing the appearance of its 350cc motorcycles.
With the CB350 range continuing to start below the Rs 2 lakh mark, Honda remains positioned directly against Royal Enfield’s Bullet 350, Classic 350 and Hunter 350.
The competition between the two manufacturers is likely to remain focused not only on engine performance but also on styling, features, equipment, pricing and the riding experience offered by each motorcycle.
–ENDS–
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is based on publicly available information. APAC Media is not responsible for investment decisions or losses. Please conduct your own research or consult a financial adviser before investing.
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