Honda Highness CB350 Review

Just when we thought RE would continue its dominance in the 350cc segment, Honda shocked us by launching the H'ness CB 350 back in 2020 instead of the Rebel, which we all expected.

But the question remains, does it have it all to take on the likes of the Classic 350, Meteor 350? Well, let's find out.

DESIGN AND FEATURES:-
The most crucial aspect in this segment is the look, and Boy- Oh -Boy, it looks beautiful.

The front-end features chrome fenders, a round LED headlamp, flanked by all-time illuminated turn indicators.

On the sides, you'll notice a long and wide fuel tank which can accommodate 15L of fuel, a stepped single-piece seat, and that elegant exhaust.
The engine casing has a machine-finished look, complemented by Honda lettering with chrome surrounds, which enhances the premium feel. It also features a well-designed bracket for the rear foot pegs.

As for the rear, there is a tail lamp which is neatly integrated and features indicators similar to the front units, surrounded by a chrome fender.

In terms of quality, there are no complaints about the materials used or the paint finish. For an extra Rs 5,000, the DLX Pro variant gets you dual-tone paint, dual horns (with chrome covers), and the Bluetooth-enabled Honda Smart Voice Control (HSVC) system. It allows the rider to pair a smartphone to the compact analogue-digital instrument cluster, which alerts on incoming calls, reads out messages, and plays music via a dedicated Honda app. 

The DLX Pro variant is the one that is featured here.
Honda has also incorporated a phone charging point under the instrument cluster, but it is a modern Type-C port, which is a neat touch and will be helpful during long journeys.

ERGONOMICS:-
Honda has nailed the ergonomics, Upright and relaxed seems to be the order given to the engineers, and well, they've certainly delivered.
The riding posture is neutral, and all the controls fall at hand quite naturally, however, the angle of the heel and toe portion of the gear shifter is raised a little too high on both ends, which makes it cumbersome to use.
And also the heel portion is too rear-set.

The rear seat is wide and comfortable, but isn't too comfy for longer rides and will require you to take multiple halts.

The foot pegs are neutrally set, and the handlebars don't require a reach.
Although the levers are non-adjustable, the position is well set

ENGINE, PERFORMANCE AND REFINEMENT:-
Coming to the most awaited bit, THE PERFORMANCE,
Powering this beauty 349cc, air-cooled single that produces as much power (20.78 BHP) as the competition but makes the most torque, at 30Nm and at a low 3,000 rpm. This certainly looks encouraging on paper, and the performance numbers prove that this is a quick motorcycle.

0-60kph comes up in 4.32s while the 100kph mark is crossed in 12.69s. The H'ness CB350 is also capable of hitting 120kph with relative ease, and has an indicated top speed of a little over 130kph. Those in a hurry will surely like the top-end performance of the motorcycle.

But with the modified Red Rooster Performance Exhaust, this bike sounds amazing, and there is a noticeable increase in performance too.
( Beware of the cops.)

Even the stock exhaust produces a loud and raspy note, and it packs a clear thump, but also sounds quite sporty when revved out, and it's louder than the RE Meteor 350 and Classic 350

The gearbox is super smooth to use, and Honda has even packed a Slip-and-Assist clutch. The clutch is extremely light to use and much lighter than the competition.

But a thing to note is the tall gearing, and it is quite surprising that Honda has chosen this route, as its competition offers a torque-driven low end, and the bike struggles to pick up from 10-15 kmph in second gear. The tall overall gearing results in a relatively weak bottom end, and staying in 5th below 60- 70kph is a task.

And if you're in the mood for a quick overtake, you must downshift a gear or two to make swift progress
Some people will love the need for more shifting and the engine's rev-free nature.

FUEL ECONOMY:-

The bike will give you a mileage of around 35 kmpl in the city and around 38-40 kmpl on highways.
But a thing to note is that if you ride past 110-120 on the highways, the mileage drops well below 20, and you will need more fuel stops.

RIDE AND HANDLING:-

The H'ness CB 350 feels quite planted and neutral in the way it rides and handles. The ride quality at low speeds is comfortable, a little stiffer than the competition, but it remains composed as the speed rises. It is pretty good at isolating the odd pothole as well, and overall, the ride setup is well judged, but not as plush.

Honda uses a cradle frame similar to the competition.

Around corners, the H'ness CB350 sticks to an intended line, with plenty of grip from the MRF Zappers. It is a lot of fun. However, a little more communication from the front end would've resulted in more confidence to push hard, not that it's an important thing for a bike of this type.

BRAKES AND SUSPENSION:-
Suspension duties are handled by a telescopic fork at the front and a twin-hydraulic shock absorber setup at the rear. It is similar to what we've seen on most modern-classic motorcycles in this segment.

On to braking, and the Nissin calipers biting on a 310mm front disc and 240mm rear disc bring the motorcycle down to a halt without any fuss. Feedback through the lever is decent, and the ABS is well calibrated so as not to intrude unless necessary.

As for the switchable Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC) or traction control in layman's language, it’s a nice feature to have for beginners, but not something needed with this little power.
It's a bit intrusive as it cuts down power even on large road markings.

It rides on a 19-inch front and an 18-inch alloy wheel combination.

CONCLUSION:-

The Honda H'ness CB350 is a well-sorted bike and will appeal to most buyers, Credit goes to Honda for delivering such a complete product.

It has a refined engine, good dynamics, a smooth gearbox coupled with Honda's reliability, and the badge makes it a compelling product

At a starting price of Rs 2,10 lakh, the H'ness is priced decently, there will be many out there who'll like the motorcycle for what it is. Although with Honda's plans to sell it solely out of the Big Wing Dealership, it won't be accessible to everyone around the country. Thing to note is, Honda is introuducing many new showrooms for the bikes under 500cc.

Honda has ticked all the boxes with this product and is a winner!

What Do You Think Of The Honda H'ness CB350?
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