Honda CB350vsRoyal Enfield Classic 350
Side-by-side specs, price, mileage and features comparison.
The Royal Enfield Classic 350 starts at around Rs 1.81 Lakh, roughly Rs 16,000 less than the Honda CB350, which is priced from about Rs 1.97 Lakh (both ex-showroom). The bigger difference is how the two 350cc singles feel to ride. The CB350's air-and-oil cooled engine is noticeably smoother and more refined, with 20.7 bhp and 29.5 Nm on a lighter 186 kg kerb weight, while the Classic 350 makes 20.2 bhp and 27 Nm but carries more retro character and heritage styling on a heavier 195 kg frame. Riders chasing iconic looks and a huge customisation ecosystem lean toward the Classic 350, while those who want a refined, low-maintenance engine with fewer vibrations on long rides tend to prefer the CB350.
Verdict
City commuting: Honda CB350 wins. Its lighter 186 kg kerb weight, light clutch pull with assist and slipper clutch, and near-zero vibrations make stop-go traffic far less tiring than on the heavier Classic 350. Long-distance touring: Royal Enfield Classic 350 wins. Its far wider dealer and service network across small towns and highways matters more on long rides than the CB350's marginally bigger tank, since the CB350 is sold only through limited BigWing outlets. First bike: Royal Enfield Classic 350 wins. It is cheaper to buy, easier to get serviced almost anywhere in India, and its low-end tractability is more forgiving for new riders than the CB350's BigWing-only dealership network.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Royal Enfield Classic 350 better than Honda CB350?
It depends on priority. The Classic 350 is about Rs 16,000 cheaper, has a wider dealer and service network, and offers iconic retro styling with a huge accessories ecosystem. The Honda CB350 has a smoother, more refined engine, is lighter at 186 kg, and offers a torquier, more relaxed ride, but it is sold only through Honda BigWing outlets.
Which has better mileage, Royal Enfield Classic 350 or Honda CB350?
The Honda CB350 has a slight edge with an ARAI-claimed 42.17 kmpl versus the Classic 350's 41.55 kmpl. In real-world riding both bikes return roughly 35 to 40 kmpl, so the difference is minor and unlikely to be a deciding factor.
Which is more reliable, Royal Enfield Classic 350 or Honda CB350?
The Honda CB350 benefits from Honda's reputation for engine refinement and build quality, with fewer reported vibration issues. The Classic 350 has improved significantly with dual-channel ABS and updated electricals on the 2024/2025 model, but some owners still report quality-control and slow service response issues. Honda's spare parts and service, however, are harder to find outside major cities.
Which is better for beginners, Royal Enfield Classic 350 or Honda CB350?
The Royal Enfield Classic 350 is generally better for beginners. It costs less, has a lower seat height of 805 mm suited to more riders, and Royal Enfield's widespread dealer network makes first-time ownership, servicing, and finding spare parts much easier across India.