New Honda CB350-based motorcycle to be launched tomorrow

- New Honda offering based on the CB350 launching tomorrow

- Likely to be the café racer version

 - Changes will mostly be limited to cosmetics

Honda is all set to launch a new motorcycle based on the Hness CB350 in India tomorrow, 16 February. It was earlier thought to be a scrambler-styled model. But Honda’s recent teaser showing interior of a café conveys that it will be a sportier, cafe racer version of the Hness CB 350. Moreover, it is likely to be called the CB350RS, inspired by the CB1100RS sold in the international markets. 

The CB350RS will perhaps be different from the CB350 retro roadster only in terms of looks. Some of these changes can already be deciphered from the teaser which shows a shorter tail with a tail-mounted light, as opposed to the fender-mounted unit present in the existing bike. Most of the chrome-finished components will be replaced by blacked-out parts. We might also see the inclusion of a clip-on handlebar, bubble fairing or visor and funky colour schemes to go with its café racer theme. 

The CB350RS will mostly be identical to the Hness on the hardware front. The 20.7bhp, 348cc, single cylinder motor will be retained and so will be the 19-18-inch wheel combination, telescopic forks, monoshock and disc brakes at both ends. To make it sound sportier, Honda might have tweaked the exhaust as well which is clearly blacked-out, as against the Hness’ chrome-finished pipe. 

Honda will definitely price the CB350RS higher than its roadster sibling, the Hness CB350, which comes in two variants – DLX and DLX Pro that are priced at Rs 1,86,500 and Rs 1,92,500, respectively. 

(All prices are ex-showroom).