Honda Motorcycle and Scooter India (HMSI) has launched the Honda CB350C Special Edition in India at an ex-showroom price of ₹2.02 lakh in Bengaluru. The motorcycle, unveiled in September 2025, adds a retro-inspired design to the existing CB350 lineup while retaining the proven mechanical base. Bookings are now open at Honda’s BigWing dealerships nationwide, with deliveries expected to begin in the first week of October.
The Honda CB Legacy
The CB series has been a cornerstone of Honda’s global motorcycle identity for decades. Models like the CB750, often called the world’s first superbike, cemented Honda’s reputation for reliability and innovation. In India, the CB350 line has sought to combine this legacy with local market needs, offering a motorcycle that balances modern technology with vintage styling.
The Special Edition reflects Honda’s effort to align with global retro-motorcycle trends while strengthening its presence in India’s competitive mid-size segment, which is dominated by long-standing rivals.
Styling and Special Edition Features
The CB350C Special Edition is positioned as the flagship variant above the DLX and DLX Pro. It introduces several cosmetic updates designed to enhance its retro charm:
- Colour Options: Rebel Red Metallic and Matte Dune Brown
- Special Branding: “Special Edition” badge on side panels
- Retro Graphics: Striped design on the fuel tank and fenders
- Chrome Grab Rail: A shift from the standard black grab rail
- Split Seats: Black-and-tan seat options, complementing the chosen paint scheme
These changes do not alter performance but enhance the visual appeal for buyers who value exclusivity.
Honda CB350C Special Edition Engine and Performance
The Special Edition shares its engine with the standard CB350 models. It is powered by a 348.36 cc, air-cooled, single-cylinder engine that produces approximately 20 horsepower and 29.5 Nm of torque at around 3,000 rpm.
Key performance features include:
- Five-speed gearbox with assist and slipper clutch
- Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC)
- Dual-channel ABS for improved safety
- Digital-analogue console with smartphone connectivity via Honda Smartphone Voice Control System (HSVCS)
These features, though not new, position the CB350C as a technologically advanced motorcycle in its segment.
Competition and Market Position of Honda CB350C Special Edition
Honda’s pricing of ₹2.02 lakh places the Special Edition in direct competition with the Royal Enfield Classic 350 and the Jawa 350, both of which are popular among retro motorcycle enthusiasts.
- Royal Enfield Classic 350: Offers a wider variety of colour schemes and extensive brand heritage but lacks some of Honda’s modern rider aids.
- Jawa 350: Competes on nostalgia and styling but has faced challenges with dealer reach and after-sales service.
- Honda CB350C Special Edition: Stands out with Honda’s reputation for refinement, reliability, and advanced features, though it is priced slightly higher than some alternatives.
Industry experts note that the Special Edition is not intended to overhaul the segment but to carve out a niche among buyers who value premium styling and Honda’s engineering consistency.
Analyst and Company Perspectives
A spokesperson from HMSI said during the launch: “The CB350C Special Edition builds on the success of our mid-size portfolio. It delivers a unique retro style while retaining the trusted reliability that Honda is known for in India and globally.”
Market analysts believe that while Honda faces stiff competition, the Special Edition could appeal to younger urban buyers seeking a motorcycle that blends modern convenience with classic looks. According to New Delhi-based automotive consultant Ramesh Kapoor, “The 350 cc segment is no longer just about commuting—it’s about lifestyle. Honda’s new model strengthens its credibility in this space.”
Consumer Appeal
The CB350C Special Edition is aimed at a diverse rider base:
- Young professionals attracted by its styling and modern connectivity features.
- Retro enthusiasts who appreciate Honda’s attention to detail in recreating classic aesthetics.
- Commuters upgrading from smaller displacement motorcycles who value refinement and ease of ownership.
However, some limitations exist. Enthusiasts seeking higher performance may prefer larger displacement motorcycles, while price-sensitive buyers may lean toward Royal Enfield’s slightly more affordable offerings.
Market Trends: Retro on the Rise
India’s motorcycle market has seen steady growth in the 300–500 cc category, driven by aspirational buyers. Retro-styled motorcycles, in particular, have grown in demand, with Royal Enfield maintaining a commanding lead.
Honda’s Special Edition aligns with this trend, offering a product that appeals not only to nostalgia but also to riders looking for everyday usability and reliability. The strategy reflects a broader industry shift where design heritage is leveraged to create emotional connections with buyers.
Future Outlook
Honda’s launch of the CB350C Special Edition indicates its commitment to India’s mid-size motorcycle market. Analysts suggest that more “Special Editions” or colour-specific variants may follow, allowing Honda to sustain consumer interest without major re-engineering.
If the Special Edition succeeds, it may also encourage Honda to introduce limited editions or accessories tailored for customisation, further tapping into the lifestyle motorcycling trend.
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Conclusion
The Honda CB350C Special Edition arrives at ₹2.02 lakh as a style-focused upgrade to the CB350C range. While mechanically unchanged, it provides riders with distinctive retro aesthetics, premium branding, and Honda’s reliability. Its success will hinge on how effectively it challenges established players like Royal Enfield and Jawa in India’s highly competitive 350 cc market.
