News

Honda H'ness CB350 & CB350RS recalled in India

Customers can get the parts replaced at BigWing dealerships across India starting from the second week of December.

Honda has recalled the H’ness CB350 and CB350RS over a faulty brake light switch and bank angle sensor.

According to Honda, the rubber parts of the brake light switch could develop cracks, which may lead to water entry and corrosion. This could cause the light to malfunction. Bikes manufactured between October 2020 and January 2023 are said to be affected by this issue.

Another issue that forced Honda to announce this recall is related to the bank angle sensor. According to the bike maker, the ‘inappropriate molding’ of the sensor housing could allow water to enter inside the bank angle sensor, causing it to malfunction. This could lead to the bike stalling. Bikes manufactured between October 2020 and December 2021 are affected by this issue.

Honda will replace both defective parts free of cost irrespective of the warranty status of the bike. Customers can get the issues rectified at BigWing dealerships across India starting from the second week of December.

 

News

Honda H'ness CB350 Legacy Edition launched at Rs 2.16 lakh

Honda has also launched the H'ness CB350RS New Hue Edition priced at Rs 2.19 lakh.

Honda has launched the H'ness CB350 Legacy Edition in India, priced at Rs 2.16 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi).

The H'ness CB350 Legacy Editon comes in a unique colour scheme featuring 'Pearl Siren Blue' paint and bold graphics. It also gets retro-style ‘Legacy Edition’ badges on the side panels. Other details include chrome mirrors and headlamp bezel, a flat seat with a chrome grab handle and a semi-digital instrument console with Bluetooth connectivity.

The H'ness CB350 Legacy Edition is powered by the same 348.36cc single-cylinder engine as the standard model. It makes 20.78 BHP and 30 Nm and is paired with a 5-speed gearbox via an assist and slipper clutch.

The bike has a staggered wheel setup with 19-inch in the front and an 18-inch alloy at the back. Braking is handled by 310 mm and 240 mm discs at the front and rear, respectively.

Honda has also launched the H'ness CB350RS New Hue Edition, which comes in two new colour schemes: Sports Red and Athletic Blue Metallic. The bike costs Rs 2.19 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi).

 

News

Honda offers 10 year extended warranty on CB350 & CB350RS

Extended warranty plans for the H'ness CB350 and CB350RS start at Rs 5,321.

Honda has announced two new warranty programs, 'Extended Warranty' and 'Extended Warranty Plus' for its BigWing customers.

The first 10,000 H'ness CB350 and CB350RS customers can avail of the Extended Warranty program at no additional cost starting from August 8, 2023.

Under the Extended Warranty Plus program, Honda is offering a 10-year comprehensive warranty, which is transferrable. Customers can purchase it anytime between 91 days from the vehicle purchase date and up to the 9th year. There are three options for customers: a 3-year policy for vehicles up to the 7th year, a 2-year policy for the 8th year and a 1-year policy for the 9th year. These options extend coverage up to 1,30,000 km.

Customers can avail of the Extended Warranty program at their nearest authorized Honda BigWing dealership at prices starting at Rs 5,321.

 

News

Honda H'ness CB 350 is now compatible with iOS

The Honda H'ness CB 350 DLX Pro and Anniversary edition come equipped with Bluetooth connectivity.

The Honda H'ness 350 comes with Honda Smartphone Voice Command (HSVC) system that is now compatible with iOS devices as well. Until now, the system only supported Android smartphones.

The Honda H'ness CB 350 DLX Pro and Anniversary edition come equipped with Bluetooth connectivity. The system enables the rider to easily navigate, make/receive phone calls and generate/respond to text messages.

The Honda H'ness CB 350 is powered by a 348.36cc, single-cylinder engine that makes 20.7 BHP and 30 Nm. The engine is mated to a 5-speed gearbox.

The H'ness CB 350 competes with the Royal Enfield Meteor 350 in the Indian market.

 

News

Motorcycle options for a 50-year-old: Royal Enfield, Honda or others

The Honda H'ness CB 350 seemed like a good alternative to the RE Bullet 350 but there isn't a Honda BigWing showroom in my city.

BHPian Dressellian recently shared this with other enthusiasts.

Dear Ones,

Congratulations to Team-BHP on completing a spectacular sixteen-year journey!

Motorcycle-less ever since I sold my Yamaha RX135 to a local mechanic, I am beginning to feel the void. I may have even begun to show signs of depression. Steeped in the habit of waiting for a perfect motorcycle to be launched, more than a year has sped by. I have turned fifty as well. I spend a lot of time reading about new launches and watching reviews online hoping one of them will cut the mustard. To this day, I am still on the horns of a dilemma.

I have long ached for a RE Bullet. My dad had three of them during his heydays. Yesterday, I visited a RE showroom and test-rode the Bullet 350. I was overwhelmed by the gigantic fuel tank and the weight of the motorcycle. At one point during the spin, the footpegs began to vibrate wildly. I wonder if, at my age, I will be able to handle it safely and enjoy the ride.

Then, Honda H'ness 350 seemed like a good alternative but it weighs nearly the same. I heard stories about how refined the engine is. I also like how simple it looks. But there isn't a BigWing outlet where I live!

Soon, I began looking at smaller bikes. I liked the Husqvarna Svartpilen 250 and the Kawasaki W170. The only KTM outlet in town has offered to arrange a test ride of the Svartpilen, but there is no Kawasaki showroom here.

Also, I am keen to get one with a kick-start. Here in the semi-developed region, it may become a huge disadvantage if the battery accidentally drains. It was for this reason I had an eye on the Bullet 350 ES. It could be the last RE offering with a kick-start?

Thinking along these lines, I have arrived at the Honda CB Unicorn. It may not satisfy the enthusiast in me, however, it is quite a practical option.

Would you gentlemen have a reasonable recommendation for me?

Here's what BHPian TorqueMonster had to say about the matter:

I think you should reduce your fears about the lack of a kicker. Like cars no longer have a rod to twist and start as backup, the kicker is also slowly becoming a fear of the past. You should ideally just ignore this and get yourself a nice bike.

You said that you want a replacement for your RX135, I think that from a strict speed aspect, you should get yourself a Husqvarna, or the KTMs.

As for Enfields, check out the new Meteor or the Classic. Kick Start aside it has minimal vibrations and is a step ahead of the now obsolete and soon to be updated Bullet Series. Also, look at the Highness, it's a tad bit smoother than the newer Enfields and is an excellent bike too, you can always service it elsewhere even if there is no BigWing showroom.

But unless you are adamant that you need a commuter, do not buy the Unicorn but look at these options instead.

Here's what BHPian drt_rdr had to say about the matter:

How about an Xpulse 200? I think you'd be fairly at home on this one if you're looking at riding as a leisure activity.

It's not going to quench the need for speed the same way the likes of an RX135 or Svartpilen would, but it's going to provide you with a fairly new experience if you haven't had something like it before, and at least it's got more power than a Unicorn.

The suspension will keep your back happy. It's got a kicker to put your distrust to rest. It doesn't weigh as much as a Bullet and co, though it might feel a bit heavy due to the taller stance. And in case you take a liking to it, there's a host of factory mods to get you deeper into the experience. It's also fairly easy to maintain and comes with 5 years of standard warranty.

Here's what BHPian aargee had to say about the matter:

Here are some thoughts on why you should stick with the CB350:

  • You love CB350.
  • The service interval is 6K km.
  • If you plan to ride <500 Km every month or <16.5 Km every day or <6K Km for a year, then this is THE ONE.
  • Honda reliability.
  • No rattling, no breaking of parts, smooth, hassle-free ownership that doesn't require major parts replacement or waiting on parts.
  • For the next 50000-60000 Km, you're not going to have any major breakdown, that's Honda.
  • Makes a good opportunity to ride to Chennai at least once a year to get the bike serviced just before the monsoon kicks in.
  • Even if you've to wait on parts, you have a premium dealership, that can order the parts & then take the bike for servicing.
  • ASC might be extra considerate as you're riding from Vellore to getting the bike serviced in Chennai.

Yes, you might not get the luxury of getting the bike serviced on-the-go, you might have to plan a few things in advance. Through the ownership, what matters is:

  • Do you love what you're riding & for how long you're going to ride?
  • Will the bike stay on the road more than the time it spends at garage/ASC?
  • How does the bike leave you with the feeling of ownership?

Battery? I don't know about CB350, with my CBR250R, I left the bike twice unattended for a month in 2011 & 2013 on my official trip abroad. Came back pressed the power & the bike came alive. That's the reliability of batteries these days, unlike the commuter segment batteries (on my Rx) that drain off if left unattended for 3 weeks or so.

Check out BHPian comments for more insights and information.

 

News

Rs 3.5 lakh budget: Need a bike for short trips/night rides

I plan to keep the motorcycle for at least 10-12 years. I've test ridden a few bikes including the Interceptor 650, Meteor 350, and BMW G 310 R/GS.

BHPian bravo82in recently shared this with other enthusiasts.

I am in my late 30s, considering a bike for short trips/night rides, mostly within the city. Just for fun and some adrenaline rush. My back and shoulder problems keep me away from touring of any sort. The last bike I owned was a CBZ classic 15 years back.

My requirements are exclusivity and trouble-free ownership. The bike should look premium and must stand out in the crowd. Have set a budget of 3-3.5 lacs and can extend it a bit. I intend to keep the bike for at least 10-12 years or maybe longer. Have shortlisted and test rode a few and my ride impressions are summarised below.

Royal Enfield Interceptor 650

This was the first and obvious choice. However, was not really impressed with the TD. Found the seat to be a bit high (I am 175 cms tall), had to extend the foot to find a stable ground at crawling speeds. The left leg kept hitting the footrest. Had to stoop forward to reach the handlebar causing lower back pain. There was no gear shift indicator and stalled the engine a couple of times due to wrong gear selection (maybe because I was riding after ages). However, the power on tap is excellent, the clutch is soft and gear shifts smooth. This bike has an exclusive cult following, is a looker and is a fairly reliable product. Endless customization options make it worth drooling for.

Royal Enfield Meteor 350

Though not on my bucket list initially, the sales executive insisted on a TD after I pointed issues with the Interceptor. However, this bike left me impressed. The ergonomics are sorted and the speedo console has all the requisite information. The large screen keeps away the wind blast. This bike actually has everything I am looking for except the exclusivity. It’s way too common on the roads.

Honda H'ness CB 350

This was the bike I felt comfortable riding. Never felt like I was riding such a heavy bike. It was so smooth and easy to handle. The only con is the looks. It’s just too boring, more like a Splendor going to the gym, especially in dual-tone. Didn’t find many customisation options on the net, unlike the Interceptor. Another issue will be the service. The nearest centre is 200kms away and I can never drive that distance.

BMW G 310 R/GS

Again, not on my bucket list, saw the 310 R on display in a mall and was really impressed with the way it looks. The next day headed to the showroom. This bike is a looker no doubts, but the driving dynamics are not that great. The gear ratio was a bit odd, so was the acceleration in lower gears. The gear shifts were precise. Felt like I was riding an Apache. Is this really BMW or a TVS Apache with a BMW label? The ergonomics of both the bikes were sorted except in G310R I had to dorsiflex my wrist way too much causing pain on the palmar aspect of the wrist joint. Had seating issues with the GS, a pain in stop and go traffic. The GS impressed me with the suspension though. Out of the two, the 310R will be my choice. Except for the looks and premium BMW label, there is not much to write about. Again service will be a pain, 200 kms away.

Yamaha Aerox 155

Although there is no comparison between the bikes above and the Aerox, the Aerox seems to fulfil my requirement. Though I am yet to test drive one, it’s a looker, expect it to remain exclusive and can do some grocery runs too. A practical choice I can say. However, I will miss the charm of owning something like the Interceptor.

Bikes not considered

  • Honda CB 300 - Yet to test drive but don’t find it a looker hence not considering.
  • Jawa - Again, lack of exclusivity and quality issues as reported by users is keeping me away from Jawa.
  • Kawasaki Ninja 300 - I guess the forward stance will cause back pain, hence not considered.
  • Benelli - This brand has a couple of good options with an extended budget. Chinese connection is keeping me away. I can reconsider if the products are reliable and keeper.
  • E-bikes - I couldn’t find good options hence not considered.
  • Commuter bikes from Hero/ Bajaj, etc.

A humble request for suggestions and inputs from the forum.

Thanks and regards

Here's what BHPian Cyborg had to say about the matter:

I can sense your confusion and frustration due to your back and shoulder issues. I wish you happy, safe riding as long as you choose.

Please read your own post (read it a few times if necessary) on the RE 350 Meteor, it’s the ONLY bike you yourself say “has everything you are looking for” except exclusivity. I would strongly advise you to forget about exclusivity, why are you bothering about it!

Just buy the RE Meteor and get back to riding. Forget about exclusivity, you are buying this to make yourself happy, do not bother about world perception.

Here's what BHPian neil.jericho had to say about the matter:

Based on your requirements, I feel a few motorcycles appear to be better choices than most

  • Royal Enfield Interceptor 650: With the back and shoulder issues that you alluded to, do strongly consider getting handlebar risers. Beyond that, the sky is the limit in terms of customization and making the bike your own. The Interceptor is a long term keeper and you certainly aren't going to outgrow it in a few years time.
  • TVS Apache RR 310 BTO: Leftfield choice but it is stylish, comfortable, has some very good components and will give you exclusivity as well. It definitely meets your premium feel and stands out criterion.
  • Classic 350: Same impressive characteristics of the Meteor but you might lose out on the exclusivity part.

In the end, I have a feeling that you will end up with the Interceptor 650 but do test ride a few more options before you make a final call.

Here's what BHPian nTorq had to say about the matter:

I am surprised at how Honda has been able to create a sense that the Highness is an alternative or even in the same segment as the Interceptor.

The Interceptor is a fantastic bike and is probably the most VFM parallel-twin engine in the market right now. Yes, there are a few design flaws, but those aren’t deal-breakers. Amongst the bikes you’ve listed, I think Interceptor is a no-brainer.

Check out BHPian comments for more insights and information.

 

News

Honda H'ness Anniversary Edition launched at Rs 2.03 lakh

The Anniversary Edition of the Honda H'ness CB 350 features multiple cosmetic changes such as golden themed emblems on the fuel tank and side panels.

Honda has launched the H'ness CB 350 Anniversary Edition in India. The new model has been introduced at the recently concluded IBW 2021. It has been priced at Rs 2.03 lakh (ex-showroom).

The Anniversary Edition of the Honda H'ness CB 350 features multiple cosmetic changes such as golden themed emblems on the fuel tank and side panels. The motorcycle is also equipped with a brown seat and body-coloured front and rear mudguards. Honda has also added the "Anniversary Edition" logo on the fuel tank.

The Honda H'ness CB 350 Anniversary Edition is available in two colours - Pearl Igneous Black and Matt Marshal Green Metallic.

Apart from the visual tweaks, no other changes have been implemented. Powering the motorcycle is the familiar 348.36cc,single-cylinder engine that makes 20.7 BHP and 30 Nm. It is mated to a 5-speed gearbox.

Apart from the Anniversary Edition of the H'ness CB 350, Honda has also unveiled the CB300R BS6.

 

News

IBW 2021: Honda to launch H'ness Anniversary Edition, CB300R

The anniversary edition of the H'ness CB350 is likely to be similar to the regular version but could come with a special livery.

As per the IBW 2021 schedule, Honda will launch an anniversary edition of the H'ness CB350 and 2022 CB300R on December 4.

The anniversary edition of the H'ness CB350 is likely to be similar to the regular version but could come with a special livery and a slight price hike. On the other hand, the 2022 CB300R is expected to be the BS6 version of the motorcycle.

The Honda CB300R made its way into the Indian market as a CKD product in February 2019, however, it was taken off the shelves when the BS6 emission regulations were enforced. Now, its BS6 version is expected to be launched at the India Bike Week 2021.

It is to be noted that Honda has not released any official statement regarding the same yet. The details have been shared by IBW that is scheduled to take place on December 4-5 in Aamby Valley, Maharashtra.

 

News

Honda H'ness CB350: ECU update for better performance

Honda recommends that owners get the new software installed if they are planning to ride at altitudes above 4,000 meters.

Honda has released an ECU software update for the H'ness CB350 and the H'ness CB350RS to improve performance at higher altitudes.

Honda recommends that owners get the new software installed if they are planning to ride at altitudes above 4,000 meters. The software update is said to take 15 minutes.

The Honda H'ness is powered by a 348.36cc, single-cylinder, air-cooled engine that produces 20.8 BHP @ 5,500 rpm and 30 Nm @ 3,000 rpm. It is paired with a 5-speed gearbox.

The bike rides on 17-inch alloy wheels with telescopic fork suspension at the front and twin shock absorbers at the rear. It gets disc brakes at the front and rear.

Thanks to BHPian manojsolanki87 for sharing this with other enthusiasts.

 

News

Honda recalls H’Ness, CB 300R, Activa for reflector issue

The Honda X-Blade, Hornet 2.0, H’ness CB350, Activa 5G, Activa 6G, Activa 125 BSVI, CB Shine and CB 300R are affected by this recall.

Honda has announced a voluntary recall for a number of its models, to replace their faulty reflex reflectors.

The models that have been affected by this recall include the X-Blade, Hornet 2.0, H’ness CB350, Activa 5G, Activa 6G, Activa 125 BSVI, CB Shine and CB 300R manufactured between November 2019 and January 2021.

According to the company, the reflex reflector fitted in the recalled vehicles is at slight variance from the required photometric provisions. This results in insufficient light reflection efficiency. Although the impact of no vehicle visibility is insignificant, Honda will be replacing the reflex reflector as a precautionary measure and free of cost irrespective of the warranty status.

Dealers will notify customers via call, e-mail and SMS to get their vehicles inspected. Customers can also check if their vehicle is part of the recall by entering their unique Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) on the Honda 2 Wheelers and Honda BigWing websites.

Customers who have replaced the reflex reflector (part no. 33741KPL902) between December 2019 and April 2021 can approach their nearest dealership to get the part replaced free of cost.

 

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