It’s the year 2025 and when it comes to classic-styled modern motorcycles in India, two names dominate the conversation: the Honda H’ness CB350 and the Royal Enfield Classic 350. Both bikes combine retro charm with modern technology, targeting riders who crave nostalgia and the classic style with a dose of practicality. But which one deserves a spot in your garage?
Let’s dive into a detailed comparison to help you make the right choice.
1. Design & Styling
Royal Enfield Classic 350
The Classic 350 is a design icon. It stays true to the vintage British motorcycle look with its teardrop fuel tank, round headlamp, chrome accents, and upright riding stance. The Classic feels like a time machine on two wheels, appealing to purists.
Key Design Highlights:
- Classic spoked wheels (alloy option also available)
- Signature peashooter exhaust
- Multiple retro-themed color options
Honda H’ness CB350
Honda’s take is more neo-retro, blending classic lines with a slightly modern twist. The round LED headlamp, metal fenders, and chrome-finished exhaust give it a premium old-school look, but it’s clearly more polished and refined.
Key Design Highlights:
- Alloy wheels with tubeless tyres
- LED lighting all around
- Minimalist, yet premium design elements
Verdict:
If you want a timeless vintage look, go for the Classic 350. If you prefer a cleaner, modern-retro approach, the H’ness CB350 is your pick.
2. Engine & Performance
| Specification | Honda H’ness CB350 | Royal Enfield Classic 350 |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 348.36cc, air-cooled | 349cc, air-oil cooled |
| Power | 20.78 PS @ 5500 rpm | 20.2 PS @ 6100 rpm |
| Torque | 30 Nm @ 3000 rpm | 27 Nm @ 4000 rpm |
| Gearbox | 5-speed | 5-speed |
Honda H’ness CB350
The H’ness CB350 offers butter-smooth torquey performance and is known for its refined engine. It pulls cleanly from low RPMs even with a pillion and feels relaxed at cruising speeds of about 90-100 kmph. Honda’s counter balancer helps eliminate vibrations, making it ideal for long rides. It sounds great too. Only thing to watch out for is the massively over driven 5th gear, which means, you will find yourself mostly using only 4 gears especially in city conditions.
Royal Enfield Classic 350
The J-platform engine on the new Classic 350 is a huge improvement over the older UCE motor. It still has a thumping character, but feels more composed. However, vibrations start creeping in above 90 km/h. This too has a strong torquey bottom end, that enables easy riding in city conditions and even with a pillion.
Verdict:
The CB350 edges ahead in refinement and usable torque. For smooth city and highway rides, Honda is the better choice. For raw, emotional riding experience, the Classic still wins hearts.
3. Features & Technology
Honda H’ness CB350
- Assist and slipper clutch
- Bluetooth-enabled instrument cluster (DLX Pro variant)
- Traction control (Honda Selectable Torque Control)
- LED lighting
- Side stand engine cut-off
- Dual Channel ABS
Royal Enfield Classic 350
- Tripper Navigation (on select variants)
- Analog-digital instrument console (Adds to the classic feel)
- Dual-channel ABS
- LED headlights
- USB charger (accessory)
- More variants & many customization options
Verdict:
The CB350 clearly wins on tech and safety features. If features matter to you, Honda delivers more value.
4. Ride Quality & Comfort
Honda H’ness CB350
The CB350 has a soft suspension setup tuned for comfort. It absorbs most bumps well and the upright ergonomics make it perfect for daily commutes and weekend getaways.
Royal Enfield Classic 350
The Classic 350 rides like a tank – it’s heavier, feels more planted, and the weight helps iron out undulations. However, the lower ground clearance and weight can be tricky in city traffic.
Verdict:
For comfort and ease of handling, Honda takes the lead. For a more planted, old-school cruiser feel, the Classic delivers.
5. Pricing & Variants
| Variant | Ex-Showroom Price (approx.) |
|---|---|
| Honda H’ness CB350 | ₹2.10 lakh – ₹2.16 lakh |
| Royal Enfield Classic 350 | ₹1.93 lakh – ₹2.25 lakh |
The Classic 350 offers more variants and customizations, from single-seat options to different finishes (chrome, matte, stealth black, etc.).
Verdict:
Royal Enfield provides more flexibility and a lower entry price. But Honda gives more tech at a slightly higher starting price.
6. After-sales & Brand Value
Royal Enfield
- Massive service network across India
- Strong resale value
- Cult following and brand loyalty
Honda
- Honda BigWing network still expanding
- Honda reliability is unmatched
- Not as strong resale value
Verdict:
Royal Enfield wins in community, resale, and reach. Honda scores in reliability and refinement but lacks the legacy cult appeal.
Final Verdict: Which One Should You Buy?
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Design & Nostalgia | Royal Enfield Classic 350 |
| Engine Refinement | Honda H’ness CB350 |
| Features & Safety | Honda H’ness CB350 |
| Comfort & Ride Quality | Honda H’ness CB350 |
| Price & Customization | Royal Enfield Classic 350 |
| Brand Legacy | Royal Enfield Classic 350 |
Choose the Royal Enfield Classic 350 if:
- You value heritage, emotional appeal, and that iconic thump.
- You want more variant options and widespread service support.
Choose the Honda H’ness CB350 if:
- You want a smoother, feature-rich, and more refined ride perfect for everyday use.
- You’re okay with slightly fewer customization options for a more premium experience.
FAQs
Q: Is the Honda CB350 better than Classic 350 for touring?
A: Yes, the CB350’s smoother engine and lower vibrations make it more comfortable for long rides.
Q: Which bike has better mileage?
A: Both offer around 35-40 km/l, but Honda’s refined engine may squeeze out a bit more in real-world usage.
Q: Which one has better resale value?
A: The Classic 350 currently enjoys stronger resale demand due to brand legacy.
Conclusion
Both bikes are excellent in their own right. The Royal Enfield Classic 350 appeals to your heart, while the Honda H’ness CB350 appeals to your head. Ultimately, your choice depends on whether you’re chasing legacy or logic.
