Honda CB350RS: Retro Style Meets Modern Performance

New Delhi, April 4, 2026: The Honda CB350RS has carved a unique niche in the Indian mid-capacity motorcycle segment, blending a classic retro silhouette with contemporary “scrambler-ish” dynamics. Positioned as the sportier sibling to the H’ness CB350, it is designed for those who want the reliability of a Honda with a more aggressive, urban-cool aesthetic.

Starting at an attractive ex-showroom price of ₹1.97 lakh, here is a deep dive into what the Honda CB350RS offers in terms of performance, technology, and design.

Design and Aesthetics: The Neo-Retro Scrambler

While the H’ness focuses on chrome and heritage, the CB350RS (Retro Sales) leans into a “blacked-out” theme. The motorcycle ditches the heavy chrome fenders for sleek, matte-black units and features a tucked-in LED tail lamp integrated under the seat for a clean, minimalist look.

• Riding Stance: It features a slightly more committed riding posture compared to the H’ness, thanks to rear-set footpegs and a flatter handlebar.
• Tyres: The RS stands out with its wide 150/70-17 rear tyre with a block-pattern tread, giving it a muscular stance and better grip on varied surfaces.
• Lighting: The bike is equipped with a full LED setup, including a signature round LED headlamp, sleek eye-shaped indicators, and a modern LED tail light.

Engine and Performance

At the heart of the CB350RS is the same refined engine found in the H’ness, but it feels more spirited due to the bike’s lighter kerb weight and different ergonomics.

Feature	Specification
Engine Type	348.36cc, Air-cooled, 4-stroke, SI Engine
Max Power	21.07 PS @ 5500 rpm
Max Torque	30 Nm @ 3000 rpm
Transmission	5-speed with Assist & Slipper Clutch
Top Speed	Approx. 125–130 kmph

The engine is known for its heavy low-end torque, allowing you to cruise effortlessly at low speeds in higher gears. The inclusion of a slipper clutch ensures that rapid downshifts don’t lock the rear wheel, making it a safer and smoother experience for city commuting.

Key Features and Technology

Honda hasn’t compromised on the “modern” part of this retro-modern machine. Despite its classic looks, it is packed with tech that rivals its competitors:

• Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC): A segment-first traction control system that prevents rear-wheel slip on slippery surfaces.
• Advanced Digital-Analogue Console: The instrument cluster maintains an analogue speedometer for that old-school feel but includes a digital display for a gear position indicator, mileage, and “distance to empty” readouts.
• Dual-Channel ABS: Standard across all variants, providing superior braking performance on its 310mm front and 240mm rear discs.
• Eco Indicator: Helps riders maintain fuel efficiency by indicating the most economical throttle position.

Ride Quality and Handling

The CB350RS weighs approximately 179 kg, which is slightly lighter than its cruiser siblings. This weight reduction, combined with the 17-inch rear wheel (compared to the 18-inch on the H’ness), makes it more agile and flickable in city traffic.

The suspension duties are handled by telescopic forks at the front and twin nitrogen-charged shock absorbers at the rear. The setup is tuned to be slightly on the firmer side to support spirited riding, yet it remains comfortable enough to soak up standard road undulations.

Pricing and Verdict

With an ex-showroom price starting at ₹1.97 lakh (for the DLX variant), the CB350RS competes directly with the Royal Enfield Classic 350, Hunter 350, and the Triumph Speed 400.

Why choose the CB350RS?

• Refinement: It offers perhaps the smoothest engine in the 350cc class.
• Style: It strikes a perfect balance between a cafe racer and a scrambler.
• Reliability: Backed by Honda’s “BigWing” premium dealership network and legendary build quality.

For the modern rider who wants a bike that looks timeless but rides like a modern machine, the Honda CB350RS remains one of the most compelling value-for-money propositions in the premium segment today.